That Affair at Elizabeth

by Burton Egbert Stevenson

This book was converted from its physical edition to the digital format by a community of volunteers. You may find it for free on the web. Purchase of the Kindle edition includes wireless delivery.

Genres: Mystery, Mystery Thriller, Audiobook, Ebooks

122 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1907

About the author

Burton Egbert Stevenson was an American author, journalist, anthologist, and librarian. He attended Princeton University 1890–1893 and married Elizabeth Shepard Butler. Marietta College awarded him the degree of Litt.D. in 1955.

The Stevenson Center at Ohio University-Chillicothe is named after him.

Reviews

[Sandy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Two mysteries in one! Fairly well-written story with little character development but some unique plot twists which keep the reader guessing. At times, I was confused by the interconnections among the characters of the two plot-lines. In my opinion, the original plot-line (which might have been developed well enough to carry the story on its own) was swept aside for too long and then tidied up too quickly at the end. I would, however, like to read some more of this author’s work.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent golden-age mystery! It kept me guessing all day, as theory after theory crossed the pages as reason for the almost-bride's sudden disappearance. Many times I was on the edge of my seat, especially when the sleuth, Lester, and his friend Godfrey find out what the strange woman is doing in her cellar at night! I wanted to root for Burr Curtiss and his bride Marcia the whole way, but the way was very dark, even inky, with many suspicions of Marcia and her fate.

I listened to the Librivox recording, and the narrator is excellent. Five stars for her reading, too.

[Cindy B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fast becoming a fan of this character. Well plotted with well-drawn characters. Clearly narrated by Librivox. Recommended.

[Bettie]

Opening: "That seems to be all right, Lester," said Mr. Royce, and handed the papers back to me. "I'll be mighty glad when we get that off our hands."

So, I knew, would the whole force of the office, for the case had been an unusually irritating one, tangling itself up in the most unexpected ways, until, with petitions and counter-petitions and answers and demurrers and what not, we were all heartily tired of it. I slipped the papers into an envelope and shot them into a pigeon-hole with a sigh of relief.

"I think that'll end it," I said. "I don't see how there can be any further delay."

"No," agreed our junior, "neither do I. Are the papers in the Griffin case ready?"

"Not yet; I doubt if they will be ready before this afternoon."

"Well, they can wait," he said, and glanced at his watch. "I want to catch the ten-ten for Elizabeth."

"For Elizabeth?"

"Yes. I know it's a mighty awkward time for me to leave, but it's an engagement I've got to keep. You've heard me speak of Burr Curtiss?"

"Yes," I said; "I seem to remember the name."

[Thom Swennes · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was first published in 1911 and has apparently stayed well hidden from the public’s eye. I was pleasantly surprised when I started this book as it presented a mystery and dilemma that keeps the reader’s attention. When a bride mysteriously disappears just hours before she is to be wed, questions are raised and searches are made. An unofficial inquiry is made by friends that lead the reader down an unexpected path of intrigue. All of the elements are present to make this a story well worth the time and effort. Why this story has remained in virtual obscurity is as mysterious as the missing bride. I give this book a solid three stars (and may be judging it harshly). I’m sure it could (and probably would) appeal to many readers.

[Redbird · Rating 3 out of 5]

According to Project Gutenberg's PDF, this book was originally published by Holt in NY, NY, 1907. A decent mystery novel, an attorney helps his coworker in a time of crisis to investigate a missing person case. The attorney had demonstrated his research chops for the firm as told in the book The Holladay Case--although the latter is not required reading for this story.

It's unlikely you'll predict the ending, simply because it's a bit convoluted, but the read is still a fun glimpse into the last century.

[Emma Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very cleverly written mystery. I had my theories as I was reading but the author led me away from what I thought and back again. I really felt like I was being led on a chase to find out what had happened. Very well done!

[Mark Rabideau · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a most convoluted, twisting mystery. A real 'barn burner'. I enjoyed it immensely.

[Jami · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a well-written, concise mystery. I enjoyed reading it and appreciated the twists and clever plot. It's a hidden gem that I would recommend for anyone interested in Sherlock or Doyle or any other such authors. It was a quick read, also.

[Marlon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read the book. Didn't see any typos as the original version. it's cleaned up and sorted and it's a great read! Give it a go.