House of the Two Green Eyes

A crime reporter in early-1900s Manhattan covers the shocking murder of a socialite in this classic mystery by the author of The Crime in Car 13.

Mrs. Belle Villiers was a celebrated character in early-twentieth-century Manhattan society. The sexagenarian’s origins are a mystery, but much is known about her love affairs with celebrities and her influence in local politics. Her wealth was unquestionable. Her Washington Square mansion frequently hosted royally exclusive salons, and Mrs. Villiers was frequently seen about town covered in jewels. Sunday newspapers frequently feature stories on the enigmatic socialite, and she’s making headlines once again. Only this time, it’s because she was found strangled to death and propped up on a park bench near her home, still wearing her jewels.

Police are baffled by the crime. And now, a million-dollar inheritance awaits her long-lost son and only heir. Can the cops figure out whodunit? Will Mrs. Villiers’s lawyer find her heir? It’s quite a story for seasoned crime reporter Richard Dayton, one he’s willing to chase through every side street and avenue. But he better be careful, because there’s no telling what dangers lurk in the shadows of the city . . .

Originally published in 1928, House of the Two Green Eyes was inspired by Stephen Chalmers’s work as a New York City crime reporter.