Death in Captivity: A WWII Locked-Room Mystery (British Library Crime Classics)

Discover the captivating treasures buried in the British Library's archives. Largely inaccessible to the public until now, this classic crime novel, featuring the challenges of World War II, was written in the golden age of detective fiction.

"Any book by Michael Gilbert is a treat"―Daily Telegraph

A man is found dead in an escape tunnel beneath an Italian prisoner-of-war camp. Did he die in an accidental collapse―or was this murder? Captain Henry 'Cuckoo' Goyles, master tunneller and amateur detective, takes up the case.

This classic locked-room mystery with a closed circle of suspects is woven together with a thrilling story of escape from the camp, as the Second World War nears its endgame, and the British prisoners prepare to flee into the Italian countryside.

Perfect for readers of Sophie Hannah and Louise Penny!

Also in the British Library Crime Classics:
Smallbone Deceased
The Body in the Dumb River
Blood on the Tracks
Surfeit of Suspects
Death Has Deep Roots
Checkmate to Murder

Editorial Reviews

Exciting, always convincing.--Evening News

Michael Gilbert has nicely combined some elements of the straight detective story with plenty of action, suspense, and adventure, to produce a superior thriller.--Saturday Review

Mr. Gilbert goes right up to the top with a unique blend of whodunnit and realistic war-time escape thriller. Characterisation of everybody of all ranks and nationalities is excellent, suspense not only maintained but stepped up towards the end.--Observer

Very original ... Lively, ingenious.--Sunday Times

"Exciting, always convincing," Evening News

"Very original ... Lively, ingenious.," Sunday Times

Readers Top Reviews

AlabazarC. MundroffB

Not a classic mystery but a page turner war story. Realistically told by someone who had lived the experience. Definitely worth a read

John I. Witmer

I liked the book because of its authentic flavor, not surprising as the author was a POW in an Italian camp in WWII. The mystery is well played and it not so much about a killer as about a spy in the midst of the POWs. Its a good read.

Dianne M. Danz

Based on a true story, this is an exciting and unique read. The characters are interesting and engaging, and the ending has a really clever twist. Also a great on-the-scene picture of a setting from WWII.

SJE

This was, I think, the best POW story I have ever read. Obviously the author knew what he was about

Peggy

Author uses good history. The characters are believable, varied, and well developed. A very unusual setting for a mystery. Recommend