The Box Office Murders by Freeman Wills Crofts, published in 1929. The plot follows Inspector French as he investigates the murder of a young woman involved in a mysterious theater ticket fraud scheme. French is known for his meticulous, methodical approach to solving crimes, often using detailed timelines and alibis, which are also a hallmark of Crofts' writing. Freeman Wills Crofts (1879-1957) was an Irish author known for his detective novels. Crofts was part of the Golden Age of Detective Fiction alongside Agatha Christie, Dorothy L. Sayers, and others, although his approach was somewhat distinct. Known for a "procedural" style of storytelling, he focused heavily on the mechanics of investigation, timing, and alibi construction, often with intricate plotting and ingenious criminal schemes. The story weaves together elements of suspense and procedural detective work, showcasing French's talent for unpicking complex schemes and motives.