Portrait of R. Austin Freeman

Author profile

R. Austin Freeman

An English physician and detective novelist best known for the forensic investigator Dr. John Thorndyke and carefully reasoned scientific clues.

Life and context

A short timeline

  1. 1862

    Born in England.

  2. 1912

    The Mystery of 31 New Inn published.

  3. 1943

    End of the author’s recorded life.

Recurring concerns

Themes and style

  • evidence
  • forensics
  • observation
  • law

Methodical detective narration that slows down to examine instruments, physical traces and competing explanations.

Available here

Works by R. Austin Freeman

1 work in the Linden collection.

Author FAQ

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Which R. Austin Freeman book should I read first?

Explore The Mystery of 31 New Inn, then compare the lengths and subjects of the available works.

Is the author portrait historical?

This is a Linden original, historically informed editorial portrait—not an archival photograph. It is based on commonly documented appearance and period clothing; reuse status: Linden original artwork.

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