The Black Tortoise: Being the Strange Story of Old Frick's Diamond

"The Black Tortoise: Being the Strange Story of Old Frick's Diamond" by Christian Sparre is a detective story that plunges into a world of mystery when a prized diamond vanishes from the mansion of the peculiar Bartholomew Frick. The tale centers on Monk, a clever private investigator pulled away from his own important plans to unravel the theft. Frick, an oddball millionaire, lives with his adopted youngsters, Sigrid and Einar, and a crew of workers and guests, any of whom could be hiding dark secrets. The book swiftly introduces Monk's background and skill, while laying the groundwork for a showdown between shady characters. As Monk accepts the challenge to find the gem, the story blends wit, suspense, offering a captivating glimpse into a world where appearance can be misleading and everyone is a suspect.