Ronald A. Knox
Biography
Ronald Arbuthnott Knox (1888–1957) was an English priest, theologian, and detective fiction writer. The son of an Anglican bishop, Knox converted to Roman Catholicism and became one of the most prominent Catholic intellectuals in Britain. He also wrote detective novels featuring the amateur sleuth Miles Bredon, and formulated the famous “Ten Commandments” of detective fiction—rules for fair-play mystery writing that became foundational to the genre. Knox’s mysteries are noted for their wit, their logical plotting, and their adherence to the fair-play principle.
Common themes in Ronald A. Knox's work
Golden Age detective fiction
A recurring theme throughout Ronald A. Knox's writing.
Fair-play mystery
A recurring theme throughout Ronald A. Knox's writing.
Catholic intellectual
A recurring theme throughout Ronald A. Knox's writing.
Ten Commandments of detection
A recurring theme throughout Ronald A. Knox's writing.
Books
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Why Ronald A. Knox is still read today
Knox’s detective novels exemplify the Golden Age fair-play mystery, while his rules for detective fiction shaped the genre’s development. On TextStack you can read Knox’s mysteries free online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Ronald A. Knox?
Ronald A. Knox (1888–1957) was a Catholic priest and detective novelist who wrote the famous “Ten Commandments” of detective fiction and authored witty Golden Age mysteries.
Where can I read Knox online?
You can read The Viaduct Murder, The Three Taps, and The Footsteps at the Lock free online on TextStack.
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