A young investigator becomes intrigued by the murder of a dislikeable numismatist.

Miss Edyth Vale, heiress to a steel fortune, has paid the youthful investigator Ashton-Kirk a visit. Her fiancé has become entangled in a secret and intensely stressful business matter, which is casting a shadow over their nascent relationship. Using her resources, she's discovered that the cause of the problem is a numismatist called Hume, and Ashton-Kirk agrees to check up on him. Yet before he can even pay a visit, Hume is discovered in his office with a bayonet in his chest. Ashton-Kirk must uncover the real murderer, but with such a wide cast of suspects, he has his work cut out for him.

Although the character of Ashton-Kirk had appeared in earlier serials, Ashton-Kirk, Investigator is the first in a series of novels by John T. McIntyre focusing on the youthful private investigator. Following in Sherlock Holmes' footsteps as a scientific investigator-for-hire, Ashton-Kirk carefully considers all possible events, often operating several steps ahead of his colleagues-and the reader.

Perfect for readers who love classic detective fiction with clever amateur sleuths and intricate murder mysteries! McIntyre delivers a gripping tale of betrayal, secret schemes, and deadly consequences that will keep you guessing until the final page. If you enjoy the golden age of detective stories with sharp investigation and unexpected twists, Ashton-Kirk's debut case is an absolute must-read.