Two Dead

by Vernon Loder

Standing in wooded grounds on the edge of a lake, the rest home known as "Lakeside" provides a retreat for neurasthenic patients, under the watchful eyes of Dr Sorslie and his wife. Among the newest guests is a financier named Smith, whose secretary, Madame Voyle, inhabits a nearby cottage. But when Madame Voyle is found poisoned following a routine visit by Sorslie's assistant, Dr Semmerne, the peace of this rural haven is shattered. Was it suicide? Professional negligence? Or something altogether more sinister...?

Originally published in 1934, this is an intriguing murder mystery from the pen of 'golden age' detective fiction writer Vernon Loder.

194 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1934

About the author

Vernon Loder was a pseudonym for John Haslette Vahey, an Anglo-Irish writer who also wrote as Henrietta Clandon, John Haslette, Anthony Lang, John Mowbray, Walter Proudfoot and George Varney.

Vahey started his working life as an apprentice architect, then an accountant before finally turning to writing fiction full-time.

extra bio info from a book blurb

Reviews

[Eric · Rating 3 out of 5]

Smith, Jones and Robinson are all involved somehow in this 1930's tale of suicide and murder.

There are financial shenanigans and a mysterious Belgian as well as the nosey patients at Lakeside Nursing Home. There is some light romance and a handsome, but troubled young doctor.

Not particularly difficult to find the solution.

Very readable and most enjoyable with its wry take on some aspects of the medical profession and speculative investment.

[Tony Harker · Rating 5 out of 5]

A much better read than “The deaf mute murders” in my opinion. The story moved steadily to a conclusion and the build-up to the big reveal at the end was logical. My one small criticism is that the identity of the murderer was quite easy to guess from early on in the novel.

[Tracey Ball · Rating 5 out of 5]

Too many errors!

Another excellent golden era crime novel but badly transferred to electronic text. The errors definitely marred the enjoyment.

That said, an interesting plot worth the persevering!