The Red Redmaynes

"The Red Redmaynes" by Eden Phillpotts is a detective novel written in the early 20th century. The story introduces Mark Brendon, a skilled inspector in the criminal investigation department, who is on holiday in Dartmoor, England. As he takes time to reflect on his life and career, a sudden murder across his path compels him to become embroiled in a complex mystery involving the intertwining lives of the Redmayne family and the tragic events surrounding them. The beginning of the novel sets the stage as Mark Brendon enjoys a solitary fishing trip in Dartmoor when he encounters a mysterious and beautiful young woman. Shortly after this encounter, rumors of a murder disrupt his holiday. The narrative unfolds as Brendon learns about the murder of Michael Pendean, who is believed to have been killed by Captain Robert Redmayne—his own family member. The initial chapters delve into Brendon's introspection about family, love, and ambition while introducing significant characters, including Jenny Pendean, Mike’s wife, who is enveloped in grief as the investigation begins to pull her husband’s family into a web of suspicion and secrets. The tension builds as Brendon must navigate personal motivations, psychological complexities, and the truths that lie beneath the facade of a seemingly quaint English setting.