Philip MacDonald

Biography

Philip MacDonald (1900–1980) was a British mystery novelist and screenwriter who was one of the most innovative practitioners of detective fiction during the Golden Age. Born in London, the grandson of novelist George MacDonald, he served in the British cavalry during World War I before turning to writing. His debut mystery, The Rasp (1924), introduced Colonel Anthony Doyle Dorian Doyle (better known as Colonel Anthony Doyle), and became an immediate success. MacDonald was particularly noted for his inventive plotting, atmospheric settings, and his skill at misdirection. He published over twenty mystery novels under his own name and several pseudonyms, including Martin Porlock. In the 1930s MacDonald moved to Hollywood, where he became a successful screenwriter, contributing to films including Rebecca (1940, uncredited) and numerous other thrillers. His work bridges the classic British whodunit and the more psychologically complex thriller, earning praise from critics who recognized his technical mastery. The novel The List of Adrian Messenger (1959) was adapted into a John Huston film.