H. Beam Piper is best known for his science fiction, but with 'Murder in the Gunroom,' he proves he could craft a razor-sharp mystery. It's a locked-room-style puzzle where the victim's passion is the key to his demise.

The Story

Jefferson Davis Rand is an expert on antique firearms, running a business that authenticates and sells them. He's hired to appraise the massive collection of the late Colonel Mottisham, who was found shot in his own gunroom. The police think it's suicide, but the family isn't convinced. As Rand catalogs the valuable weapons, he notices things are off—guns are missing, their histories don't add up, and everyone in the Colonel's orbit seems to have a motive. The Colonel was a difficult man, and his collection was a point of obsession and conflict. Rand uses his specialized knowledge to see clues the police miss, turning the investigation on its head. He has to figure out not only who wanted the Colonel dead, but which weapon was used and why that particular choice matters.

Why You Should Read It

This book works because Piper makes a potentially dry subject—antique guns—fascinating and central to the plot. Rand isn't a superhero; he's just a guy who's really, really good at his job. His expertise is his power. The mystery is fair-play; the clues are there if you pay attention. I also love the mid-century atmosphere. It's a world of telegrams, formal dinners, and genteel suspicion. The characters feel real, driven by greed, pride, and family duty. You get a sense that Piper respected this subject and his readers' intelligence.

Final Verdict

Perfect for mystery lovers who enjoy a niche setting and a detective who uses brains over brawn. If you liked the focused expertise in 'The Daughter of Time' or the classic puzzle-box feel of a John Dickson Carr novel, you'll feel right at home. It's also a great pick for anyone curious about historical firearms, as the details are woven seamlessly into the story. Don't let the technical stuff scare you—Piper explains it clearly and makes it part of the fun. This is a hidden gem from a master storyteller, proving a good mystery can be found anywhere, even in a room full of old guns.