The Eye of Osiris (ePub)

Richard Austin Freeman, born on April 11, 1862, in London, England, was an eminent British writer of detective stories, mostly featuring the medico-legal forensic investigator Dr. John Thorndyke. He studied medicine at Middlesex Hospital Medical College and subsequently enlisted as a colonial surgeon, an experience that provided substantial background for his future literary undertakings. Freeman's professional medical knowledge deeply influenced his writing style and narrative structure, helping him create intricate and scientifically based plots that were innovative for the detective genre. 'The Eye of Osiris' (1911), one of his notable works, exemplifies Freeman's mastery in weaving archaeology, Egyptology, and forensic science into a riveting tale of intrigue and suspense. Freeman is credited with inventing the 'inverted detective story' format, where the commission of the crime is described at the outset, followed by the detection process. His literary contributions were well acknowledged, as he was acclaimed for his attention to detail, meticulous plotting, and the intellectual stimulation provided by his creation Dr. Thorndyke, who often used cutting-edge scientific methods to solve crimes. Freeman's works have left a lasting legacy in the genre of detective fiction and continue to be celebrated by enthusiasts of early 20th-century mystery literature.