The Notting Hill Mystery by Charles Warren Adams is a groundbreaking work in detective fiction, widely regarded as the first full-length detective novel. Originally serialized in the 1860s, the novel is structured as a meticulous investigation led by insurance investigator Ralph Henderson, who pieces together a sinister case through diary entries, letters, witness statements, and forensic reports. Featuring a mesmerizing villain, poisoning, and layers of intrigue, the book showcases narrative techniques that would later define the genre. A must-read for fans of classic crime fiction and those interested in the origins of the detective novel.

Interesting story which is more appealing for the style and early version of a detective novel. Written in the early 1860s, and published in magazines, it tells the story through diary entries and letters of an insurance agent about the death of a woman. Also of interest are the drawings by the grandfather of Daphne du Maurier. The story itself is good, but the premise is what stood out for me. Would recommend.

The unusual structure was great fun to read and it was very interesting to get a glimpse at the beginnings of the mystery novel. Definitely to be recommended to those interested in classic crime who want more insight into how the genre started.