The Eye of Osiris (1911) by R. Austin Freeman

“....nowhere else in the world are so many strange and abnormal human beings gathered together in one place.”

Readers unfamiliar with The Eye of Osiris may wish to read my notes only after reading the novel.

The Eye of Osiris is a superb mystery, a crime novel that excites passion and loyalty beyond the last page. Freeman displays consummate assurance in calling to life each character and locale.

Plot:

The Eye of Osiris follows the mysterious disappearance of John Bellingham, a wealthy Egyptologist, and the ensuing legal complications surrounding his will. His brother, Godfrey Bellingham, and his niece, Ruth, are left in poverty due to the unusual conditions of the will, which stipulate that John must be buried in a specific location for Godfrey to inherit. The case takes a turn when the dismembered remains of a body, possibly John's, begin to surface. Dr. Thorndyke, a medico-legal expert, takes on the case, using his sharp observation and scientific knowledge to unravel the truth behind John's disappearance and the strange circumstances surrounding the will.

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Characters:

• Dr. John Thorndyke: A brilliant medico-legal expert known for his sharp observation and analytical skills.

• Paul Berkeley: A young doctor and former student of Thorndyke, who becomes interested in the case and assists in the investigation.

• Godfrey Bellingham: Brother of the missing John Bellingham, faces financial difficulties due to his brother's will.

• Ruth Bellingham: Niece of John Bellingham, intelligent and resourceful, assists her father and Dr. Thorndyke.

• Mr. Hurst: A relative of the Bellinghams, implicated in the mystery, stands to gain from John's disappearance.

• Mr. Jellicoe: John Bellingham's solicitor, a key figure in the mystery, possesses a suspicious demeanor.

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