The Scarab Murder Case. Philo Vance Mysteries. Illustrated

A brutal murder in a prestigious Egyptology museum plunges New York high society into a web of intrigue, ancient curses, and deception in The Scarab Murder Case (1930), the fifth installment in S. S. Van Dine’s celebrated Philo Vance mystery series.When eminent Egyptologist and museum director Dr. Mindrum Bliss is found dead in his study—his body savagely struck down beneath the gaze of a golden scarab—suspicions immediately arise about the legendary “curse of the Pharaohs.” Is this a case of supernatural vengeance, or is a more earthly killer at work? The police are baffled by the bizarre crime scene and its cryptic symbols, but the enigmatic and razor-sharp detective Philo Vance is determined to uncover the truth.With his signature blend of intellectual reasoning, cultural expertise, and relentless logic, Vance delves into the world of archaeology, secret societies, and buried secrets. As he deciphers hieroglyphics, unravels hidden motives, and exposes shocking betrayals, he must outwit a cunning murderer before the next victim falls.A gripping fusion of ancient mystery and classic detective fiction, The Scarab Murder Case is a must-read for fans of Golden Age mysteries, combining Van Dine’s intricate plotting with a fascinating setting steeped in history and intrigue.