Anna Katharine Green 
XYZ : A Detective Story 

Anna Katharine Green’s novel, ‘XYZ: A Detective Story, ‘ is a classic example of early detective fiction, set in the late 19th century. The book follows the investigation of a mysterious crime by a skilled detective, with intricate plot twists and vividly drawn characters. Green’s writing style is characterized by detailed descriptions and a focus on psychological depth, adding complexity to the standard detective story. The novel is often seen as a precursor to the modern detective genre, blending elements of mystery and social commentary. Green’s work is a captivating read for those interested in the development of detective fiction and its influence on later works. Anna Katharine Green, known as the ‘mother of the detective novel, ‘ drew on her own experiences as the daughter of a famous lawyer to create realistic legal and investigative scenarios. Her keen observation skills and interest in criminal psychology informed her writing, leading her to produce a series of successful detective novels during her career. I highly recommend ‘XYZ: A Detective Story’ to readers who enjoy classic detective fiction and appreciate the historical context of the genre. Green’s contribution to the development of mystery literature makes this novel a must-read for fans of the genre.