The Red Seal

About the book

Helen and Barbara McIntyre arrive at a Washington police court in connection with an alleged burglary at their home. The prisoner appears to be an unremarkable intruder, but his sudden death and the discovery of a disguise abruptly change the meaning of the proceedings. Connections among the twins, lawyers, a physician, and the world of banking create a circle in which many people know part of the story and few readily explain their behavior. Lincoln builds the investigation around the danger of accepting appearances, with resemblances and concealed intentions complicating testimony. Social position offers little protection from suspicion once the supposed housebreaking becomes a more serious affair. The opening's public shock develops into a puzzle about private relationships.

• Disguise and identity
• Social reputation
• Conflicting testimony

Why read it

Read it for a mystery that begins by overturning the apparent meaning of a courtroom scene.

English text