The Documents in the Case

The Documents in the Case brings Dorothy L. Sayers, Robert Eustace’s approach to fiction, mystery into clear focus first published in 1930. The work draws its energy from secrecy, evidence, motive, and the difficult search for truth, giving Dorothy L. Sayers, Robert Eustace room to explore how people respond to pressure, desire, and change. Rather than depending on topical novelty, the book builds its interest through the interaction of character, situation, and idea. The book’s distinctive character comes from a carefully controlled structure that rewards attention to detail and shifting suspicion. At roughly 77,725 words with a fairly easy reading profile, it offers a reading commitment that is easy to judge before beginning while still leaving room for close attention. Its continuing value lies in its role in shaping the pleasures and conventions of detective and suspense fiction. Readers drawn to fiction, mystery and secrecy will find a work that combines a distinct period voice with questions that remain recognizable today.