Clyde B. Clason's The Fifth Tumbler is a masterful entry in the realm of Golden Age detective fiction, blending intellectual intrigue with a baffling mystery that will keep readers guessing until the final page. Featuring Theocritus Lucius Westborough, a scholarly amateur sleuth, the novel showcases Clason's signature style of intricate plotting and atmospheric storytelling.
The story begins with the mysterious death of a prominent inventor, found dead in a locked room under circumstances that defy explanation. The only clue? A cryptic object—a fifth tumbler—linked to one of his latest innovations. With the police stumped and suspicions falling on a wide cast of characters, Westborough is called upon to untangle the enigma and uncover the truth behind the bizarre crime.
As Westborough delves into the victim's life, he finds a web of motives, from industrial espionage and professional rivalries to personal vendettas. Set against the backdrop of 1930s Chicago, Clason skillfully combines the gritty reality of the city with the cerebral puzzles of a classic locked-room mystery. Every detail is meticulously crafted, drawing readers deeper into a world of hidden clues, misdirection, and suspense.
Filled with unexpected twists and a satisfying conclusion, The Fifth Tumbler is a quintessential whodunit that exemplifies the best of the Golden Age tradition. Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie and Ellery Queen, Clason's novel is a timeless puzzle that will captivate lovers of clever and sophisticated mysteries.