The Crime at Black Dudley

The Crime at Black Dudley is the first novel in Margery Allingham’s Albert Campion series, published in 1929. The story begins with a group of young people gathering for a weekend party at the remote and eerie Black Dudley Manor, owned by the eccentric Wyatt family. Among the guests is Albert Campion, a charming and enigmatic figure who will become a recurring character in Allingham’s works. The weekend takes a sinister turn when the host’s uncle, Colonel Coombe, is found dead under mysterious circumstances. The situation escalates when the guests realize they are being held captive by a group of dangerous criminals who are searching for a valuable artifact. As tensions rise and suspicions grow, Campion and the other guests must navigate a web of secrets, lies, and hidden motives to uncover the truth and escape the manor alive. The Crime at Black Dudley combines elements of classic country-house mystery with thrilling suspense, introducing readers to the witty and resourceful Albert Campion. The novel sets the stage for the series, blending clever plotting, engaging characters, and a touch of humor.