The Agony Column by Earl Derr Biggers is a captivating and mysterious novel that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. The story follows a journalist who becomes entangled in a web of deceit and danger while investigating a series of strange advertisements in the newspaper's agony column. As he digs deeper, he uncovers a thrilling conspiracy that threatens not only his own life, but the lives of those around him.

Biggers crafts a compelling narrative filled with twists and turns that will leave readers guessing until the very last page. The protagonist is a relatable and likable character, making it easy for readers to become invested in his journey. The supporting cast of characters adds depth to the story, with each playing a crucial role in the unfolding mystery.

The setting of 1920s London adds an extra layer of intrigue to the novel, as Biggers expertly captures the atmosphere of the time period. The writing is crisp and engaging, with just the right amount of suspense to keep readers engaged throughout.

Overall, The Agony Column is a thrilling and suspenseful read that will appeal to fans of mystery and crime fiction. Biggers delivers a clever and well-crafted plot that will keep readers eagerly turning the pages until the very end.

Book Description:

English romantic adventure starring a young American in London and inspired by the personal ads (agony columns) in the London papers. In this treacherous tale of murder and intrigue young American Geoffrey West tracks a killer from the posh dining room of the Carlton Hotel to the opium dens of London’s Limehouse district in search of the truth and the heart of his true love only to find the culprit all too close to home.

Earl Derr Biggers is better known as the author of numerous Charlie Chan novels.

The Agony Column was released as a movie under the name Second Floor Mystery in 1930. While this movie was in production, its two stars, Loretta Young and Grant Withers, eloped.