Melville Davisson Post 
Uncle Abner: Master of Mysteries 

Melville Davisson Post’s ‘Uncle Abner: Master of Mysteries’ is a collection of detective stories set in early 19th century America, featuring the enigmatic figure of Uncle Abner who uses his keen intellect and deep moral convictions to solve a series of puzzling crimes. The stories are characterized by their atmospheric setting, intricate plots, and moral dilemmas that reflect the author’s own background as a lawyer and magistrate. Post’s writing style is reminiscent of the classic detective fiction of his time, drawing on elements of gothic literature and American frontier folklore to create a unique and compelling narrative. The stories offer a fascinating glimpse into the social and legal complexities of the post-Revolutionary War era, exploring themes of justice, morality, and the human condition. Melville Davisson Post’s background as a lawyer and magistrate provided him with a rich source of inspiration for the character of Uncle Abner, whose deductive skills and unwavering sense of justice reflect the author’s own beliefs and experiences. Post’s deep understanding of human nature and the complexities of the legal system shine through in these stories, making ‘Uncle Abner: Master of Mysteries’ a must-read for fans of classic detective fiction and historical mysteries.