The Purple Onion Mystery

Originally published in 1941, The Purple Onion Mystery is a unique and compelling mystery novel set in the world of publishing. The private office of a book publisher is the scene of the murder which Spike Tracy undertakes to investigate at the request of Inspector Herschman. Spike, as readers of other Miss Ashbrook's novel will know whose conduct is always so shameful till he sets out on the trail of a murderer-when he becomes an entirely serious young man. Spike is not officially attached to the Police Department; he is merely a volunteer and usually a willing one. On this occasion he is not so willing until he gets a glimpse of a young woman who is involved in the case and recognizes her as one whom he has met in peculiar circumstances. Spike overcomes his hangover long enough to solve the complicated mystery which revolves around Penton Press and the murder of playboy-publisher Penton's secretary. There are several red herrings and a maze of clues, but they all tie into the final solution. One of the clues is a purple onion, and if you can guess what that has to do with the case you are as good a detective as Spike Tracy. Reviews of "The Purple Onion Mystery" -The New Yorker "plots within plots in this recommended mystery." -Saturday Review of Literature "Copious action and much amusing dialogue." -New York Times "this is about the best of Miss Ashbrook's stories, and that is no faint praise."