The Charing Cross Mystery

The Charing Cross Mystery by J. S. Fletcher is a captivating detective novel that unfolds in the bustling city of London. The story begins with Hetherwick a young barrister with a keen interest in criminal cases who finds himself embroiled in a perplexing mystery following a chance encounter on a late-night train. Hetherwick witnesses the sudden death of Robert Hannaford a retired police superintendent under suspicious circumstances. Hannaford's death is later confirmed to be the result of poisoning setting off a complex investigation. As Hetherwick delves deeper into the case he discovers that Hannaford had been in possession of a sealed envelope containing a secret worth a potential fortune. This discovery coupled with the mysterious disappearance of a man with stained fingers who was last seen with Hannaford adds layers of complexity to the investigation. Hetherwick's curiosity is further piqued by a photograph of a distinguished woman found in Hannaford's pocketbook marked with the cryptic note Through my hands ten years ago. Determined to uncover the truth Hetherwick embarks on a journey to trace Hannaford's last movements and the significance of the photograph. His investigation leads him to explore Hannaford's past in Sellithwaite where he hopes to find clues about the woman's identity and her connection to the case. As the narrative unfolds Hetherwick navigates a web of secrets potential motives and hidden identities all while seeking justice for Hannaford's untimely demise.