The Greene Murder Case

Name: The Greene Murder Case
Author: S.S. Van Dine

"The Greene Murder Case" by S.S. Van Dine follows the investigation of a brutal double shooting in the Greene family mansion. The narrative is presented through the eyes of a character who serves as the personal attorney to the brilliant but eccentric amateur detective, Philo Vance. The story begins with a detailed account of the crime, where Julia Greene is killed, and her sister Ada is injured during what is initially thought to be a burglary gone wrong. As Vance becomes involved in the case, he employs his unique methods of deduction to uncover the truth behind the murders, which the police have failed to solve. The investigation reveals complex family dynamics, hidden motives, and psychological intricacies that suggest the crime is more than a simple robbery. Vance's analytical skills and understanding of human behavior lead him to suspect that the true nature of the crime is rooted in deeper familial tensions and personal vendettas. Throughout the narrative, Vance's interactions with the police, particularly District Attorney John F. -X. Markham, highlight the contrast between official investigative methods and Vance's unconventional approach. The story culminates in a dramatic revelation that exposes the real perpetrator and the underlying reasons for the tragic events, showcasing Van Dine's intricate plotting and character development.

By S.S. Van Dine · First published 1928 · Genre: Mystery, Detective Fiction, Crime · 26 chapters · 115,139 words

First lines

(Tuesday, November 9; 10 a.m.)

It has long been a source of wonder to me why the leading criminological writers -- men like Edmund Lester Pearson, H. B. Irving, Filson Young, Canon Brookes, William Bolitho, and Harold Eaton -- have not devoted more space to the Greene tragedy; for here, surely, is one of the outstanding murder mysteries of modern times -- a case practically unique in the annals of latter-day crime. And yet I realize, as I read over my own voluminous notes on the case, and inspect the various documents relating to it, how little of its inner history ever came to light, and how impossible it would be for even the most imaginative chronicler to fill in the hiatuses.

What this Textopian page supports

The Greene Murder Case is listed on Textopian as a novel by S.S. Van Dine, dated 1928 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: S.S. Van Dine
Date: 1928 CE
Language: English
Genres: Mystery, Detective Fiction, Crime, Thriller, Literary Fiction
Length: 115,139 words
Structure: 26 chapters, 2,828 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Work identity for The Greene Murder Case by S.S. Van Dine
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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Mystery — The plot revolves around a murder investigation, central to the mystery genre.
Detective Fiction — Features a detective character solving the murder case, typical of detective fiction.
Crime — Involves criminal activities and the consequences of crime.
Thriller — Contains suspenseful elements that keep readers engaged and on edge.