Anderson Crow, Detective

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

28229

Title

Anderson Crow, Detective

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

In the sleepy town of Tinkletown, Deputy Marshal Anderson Crow investigates a series of bizarre events, including a massive grain-warehouse fire, the mysterious arrival of a veiled lady, and the suicide of a notorious criminal. Blending humor, mystery, and small-town eccentricity, this novel offers a lighthearted yet engaging look at community life during wartime.

Summary up to 500 words

Set in the fictional, slow-going town of Tinkletown during the summer of 1918, George Barr McCutcheon's *Anderson Crow, Detective* chronicles the adventures of its titular hero, a deputy marshal who simultaneously serves as fire chief and water-works commissioner. The narrative opens with a dramatic conflagration at Smock's grain elevator, which threatens to engulf the entire community. Amidst the chaos, Crow deduces that the blaze was likely arson committed by German agents, adding a layer of wartime suspense to the local drama. Parallel to the fire, the story introduces a mysterious veiled lady who arrives in a luxury car and rents a secluded cottage. Her refusal to engage with neighbors sparks intense town gossip, leading Crow and reporter Harry Squires to investigate her background. The novel also features the eccentric residents of Tinkletown, including the drunkard Alf Reesling, the priest Father Maloney, and the small, violent Lucius Fry. A significant subplot involves the case of Jake Miller, a man wanted for murder who hangs himself before Crow can arrest him. Through a recovered letter, Crow uncovers Miller's true identity and the circumstances of his flight, vindicating the marshal's efforts. The book further explores the complex domestic life of Lucius Fry, whose wife is initially proud of his 'brutality' until he is arrested for a crime he claims was committed to protect her from jealous rivals. Throughout the novel, Crow navigates the complexities of his dual roles, balancing heroic firefighting with mundane law enforcement duties. Characterized by humorous dialogue and quirky personalities, the story captures the underlying tension of World War I. Ultimately, the novel celebrates the resilience of the community and the dedication of its unlikely hero, Anderson Crow, as he solves mysteries and saves the town from various perils.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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data/epubs/pg28229.epub

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2026-07-03 22:56 UTC

Categories

• Fiction
• Mystery