Full dark house

This novel is the first in the Bryant & May series, introducing the detective duo. While it establishes their partnership and the world they inhabit, the central mystery of this particular book is self-contained.

The narrative unfolds across two distinct time periods: the present day, as John May investigates a modern crime, and the past, as he delves into Arthur Bryant's notes from their very first case during World War II.

This book marks the beginning of Fowler's long-running Bryant & May series, which is known for its blend of intricate mystery, historical detail, and the unique, often eccentric, dynamic between its two elderly detective protagonists. It sets the tone for the series' characteristic wit and London-centric focus.