"The Bittermeads Mystery" by E. R. Punshon, introduces Robert Dunn, an enigmatic and strong man, who arrives at the isolated Bittermeads with a hidden objective full of peril. As the story builds, Dunn meets both the captivating Ella and her commanding stepfather, their relationships suggesting possible conflict and dark secrets. Dunn's arrival at a quiet country station instantly causes interest because of his rough looks and challenging behavior, which results in a confrontation revealing his force and unpredictability. Wandering to Bittermeads in the night, he sees a young couple's farewell, sparking his uncertainty. Dunn soon uncovers a past tragedy regarding Charley Wright, ultimately making a horrifying discovery of a body concealed in an attic. The story creates suspense as Dunn balances his mission while dealing with disturbing tensions between Ella and Dawson, questioning loyalty and purpose within a setting full of mystery and potential danger.

The Bittermeads Mystery
By E. R. (Ernest Robertson) Punshon
In a secluded manor, an imposing stranger's arrival unravels a web of hidden relationships and a shocking secret buried in the attic.
Summary
About the Author
Ernest Robertson Punshon was an English novelist and literary critic of the early to mid 20th century. He also wrote under the pseudonyms Robertson Halkett and Robertson Halket. Primarily writing on crime and deduction, he enjoyed some literary success in the 1930s and 1940s. Today, he is remembered, in the main, as the creator of Police Constable Bobby Owen, the protagonist of many of Punshon's novels, who was eventually promoted to sergeant, inspector, superintendent and, finally, commander. A popular Scotland Yard detective, Owen appeared in 35 novels from 1933 to 1956. Punshon reviewed many of Agatha Christie's novels for The Guardian on their first publication. Punshon was also a prolific writer of short stories, and a selection of his crime and horror fiction has recently been collected together.
Ernest Robertson Punshon was an English novelist and literary critic of the early to mid 20th century. He also wrote under the pseudonyms Robertson Halkett and Robertson Halket. Primarily writing on crime and deduction, he enjoyed some literary success in the 1930s and 1940s. Today, he is remembered, in the main, as the creator of Police Constable Bobby Owen, the protagonist of many of Punshon's novels, who was eventually promoted to sergeant, inspector, superintendent and, finally, commander. A popular Scotland Yard detective, Owen appeared in 35 novels from 1933 to 1956. Punshon reviewed many of Agatha Christie's novels for The Guardian on their first publication. Punshon was also a prolific writer of short stories, and a selection of his crime and horror fiction has recently been collected together.