This novel - the classic French detective story - was written in 1907 by Gaston Leroux, once a reporter who covered the famous trials of his time. For sheer originality and ingenuity this story may be reckoned as one of the best tales since Gaboriau. How could a crime take place in a locked room which shows no sign of being entered? For the many who delight in following the intricacies of crime and the avenging hand of Justice, this is a favorite of whodunit fans everywhere.