Fletcher wrote most of his crime and spy thrillers during the 1930's. Although he produced an amazing 400 plus books,I see that only myself and one other member lays claim to owning one.
'Murder In Four Degrees' is fairly typical of its type. It has a private detective or two,who work in tandem with the official police. These seem happy to work with two people who seem cleverer than they are. The Detectives,both official and unofficial are called in by the rich tycoon,Lord Cheverdale,owner of a newspaper. The editor of the paper has just been found,murdered in the grounds of Cheverdale's mansion. Shortly afterwards the dead body of a mysterious lady is found and both victims have been killed in the same way by a blow to the head with the proverbial 'blunt instrument'.
The writing is somewhat pedestrian and the characters a little on the cardboard side. Readable enough,but not outstanding in any way. ( )