Priest holes, mysterious ghosts, secret passages and skeletons figure prominently in Footsteps in the Dark.
Siblings Peter, Celia and Margaret inherit the Priory, a large ancient country estate, from their Uncle. They, along with Celia’s husband Charles, decide to move in.
Footsteps in the Dark was originally published in 1932. It was the first thriller by an author who was most famous for her historical romances. I think that was my issue with the book. It was a fun read. However, it seemed as if the author was trying to use every overused thriller cliché. The local police are incompetent bumblers. The recently inherited country estate is haunted. Some of the “surprises” during the conclusion were obvious from almost the beginning of the book.
Overall, Footsteps in the Dark is more a curiosity than a good thriller. It is only recommended for fans of British Golden Age mysteries who are trying to read everything still in print from that era. All others should steer clear. 2 stars.
Thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.