The Secret House – Deadly Conspiracies Behind Locked Doors: An Addictive Audiobook Review of Edgar Wallace’s Classic Thriller

1. About the Author: Edgar Wallace

Edgar Wallace was one of Britain’s most prolific and influential crime novelists in the early 20th century. With over 170 novels, numerous plays, and hundreds of short stories, Wallace made his mark on the detective genre with fast-paced plots and captivating villains.

His writing style is action-driven and minimalistic, avoiding long internal monologues and focusing instead on suspenseful events. Wallace’s works have been adapted into numerous films and radio shows, and he is also credited with contributing to the screenplay of King Kong (1933). His legacy in crime fiction remains unshaken more than a century later.

2. About the Narrator: Don W. Jenkins

Don W. Jenkins is a familiar voice in classic audiobook narration. Known for his calm, neutral tone and clear enunciation, Jenkins brings a traditional storytelling feel that suits vintage literature well.

While his performance may lack theatrical expressiveness, Jenkins maintains a steady pace and consistent clarity, making him a suitable narrator for listeners who prefer straightforward, easy-to-follow narration without dramatic inflections.

3. About the Book: The Secret House

Originally published in 1917, The Secret House is a suspenseful mystery novel filled with intrigue, secret passages, blackmail plots, and murder. The story follows T. B. Smith, a top investigator, as he delves into strange events surrounding a reclusive millionaire and his eerie mansion, which hides more than just architectural secrets.

Genre: Classic Mystery / Crime Thriller
Setting: Early 20th-century London
Main themes: Conspiracy, hidden truths, justice, espionage
Average Rating on Audible: 3.9/5 (150+ reviews)
Estimated Sales: Over 20,000 audiobook downloads

While not award-winning, the book remains a popular choice among fans of old-school detective stories and is consistently featured on classic audiobook lists.

4. Book Review: The Secret House

The Secret House is a quintessential Edgar Wallace thriller — intense, mysterious, and fast-paced. From the very first chapter, the plot unfolds with a gripping sense of urgency, as murders and manipulations spiral into a full-blown conspiracy.

Strengths:

• Well-structured plot with continuous suspense

• Mysterious atmosphere and unique setting (hidden elevators, secret rooms)

• Memorable villains, especially Count Poltavo — both charming and treacherous

Weaknesses:

• Minimal character development may feel flat to modern readers

• The ending, while shocking, may seem abrupt or underwhelming

This book is a perfect fit for mystery lovers who enjoy classic whodunits without excessive exposition. The brisk narrative style makes it ideal for listening as an audiobook.

5. Audiobook Review: Narrated by Don W. Jenkins

The audiobook version of The Secret House narrated by Don W. Jenkins offers a traditional, understated listening experience that aligns with the vintage feel of Wallace’s writing.

Pros:

• Clear pronunciation and steady rhythm

• Suitable for listeners who prefer a calm, neutral narration

Cons:

• Lack of emotional variation or character differentiation

• May feel monotonous in longer listening sessions

Average Audiobook Rating: 3.5/5
Listener feedback: “Jenkins’ voice may be plain, but it fits the classic tone of the novel. Easy to follow without distractions.”

6. Who Should Listen to This Audiobook?

The Secret House is ideal for:

• Fans of classic British crime and mystery novels

• Listeners who enjoy subtle, slow-burn thrillers without modern gore or shock tactics

• Students or ESL learners seeking clear English audiobooks for study

• Those who appreciate vintage literature in audio format

7. Conclusion

With its shadowy conspiracies and thrilling suspense, The Secret House showcases Edgar Wallace’s talent for storytelling that still holds up today. Though some elements may feel dated, its brisk plot and vintage charm make it a worthwhile experience, especially in audiobook format.

If you’re looking for an atmospheric mystery that doesn’t waste time with fluff, The Secret House is a solid addition to your listen list. Don’t miss the chance to step into a world where every door might hide a secret — literally.

8. Where to Listen

You can listen to The Secret House audiobook on the following platforms:

• Audiobooks.com

• Audible

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