Madeline Payne, the Detective's Daughter

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

26482

Title

Madeline Payne, the Detective's Daughter

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

In this Victorian-era detective thriller, Madeline Payne, the daughter of a legendary expert, returns to her family estate only to discover she is not dead but has been living in disguise. As she uncovers a web of deceit involving her stepfather, a manipulative suitor, and a rival detective, she must use her inherited shrewdness to expose villains and reclaim her rightful place as the heir to Oakley.

Summary up to 500 words

In Lawrence L. Lynch's *Madeline Payne, the Detective's Daughter*, a tale of mystery and redemption, Madeline Payne returns to her family estate, Oakley, after years of living in disguise. Once the daughter of the renowned detective Lionel Payne, Madeline fled a forced marriage arranged by her cruel stepfather, believing herself dead to escape her enemies. Upon her dramatic reappearance, she finds the estate in turmoil under the control of her brother-in-law, Lucian Davlin, and his wife, Cora. Madeline quickly discerns that her stepfather has lost his reason and that Davlin is plotting to seize the family fortune. With the aid of her loyal friend Claire and the devoted Clarence Vaughan, she unravels a complex web involving stolen identities, hidden wills, and dangerous schemes. Through clever deduction and bravery, Madeline exposes Davlin's treachery, secures the safety of her loved ones, and restores justice to the family. The novel blends intricate mystery with romantic subplots, showcasing Madeline's growth from a neglected girl into a capable woman who relies on her own intellect rather than her father's legacy. The story concludes with Madeline choosing a life of independence and peace, having proven her worth as a detective in her own right. As the narrative closes, Madeline reflects on her new life, finding rest and hope in a world cleansed of her enemies' footprints. She accepts her identity as the 'Expert's Daughter,' inheriting her father's talents and choosing a path of self-sufficiency and tranquility, surrounded by the love of her friends.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Fiction
• Mystery