The Crimson Patch

"The Crimson Patch" by Augusta Huiell Seaman is a mystery novel that places young Patricia Meade in a whirlwind of intrigue and potential danger at a hotel while her father, Captain Meade, undertakes a secret mission amidst war. Patricia forges friendships, most notably with a foreign girl named Virginie de Vos, and becomes captivated by the perplexing Madame Vanderpoel, their neighbor in the hotel. Following their arrival, the story immediately creates suspense. Patricia's father's classified activities and a sudden telegram about a relative increases the tension for Patricia, who is already coping with her mother's absence. The introduction of characters like the mysterious waiter, Peter Stoger, and the cryptic Madame Vanderpoel, add to the atmosphere of mystery. Patricia's attentiveness to detail hints that something big is brewing, especially when viewing the relationships and intentions of those around her.