JessFirst to rec
“Freeman's major series follows forensic expert Dr. John Thorndyke, who combines medical, scientific, and legal expertise to solve crimes. While the writing can be uneven and the characterization sometimes thin, these mysteries are a joy for anyone interested in the history of science and technology.
Freeman sets up extremely clever plots, then unwinds them with the help of what were, at the time, cutting-edge research techniques. For example, one mystery involves him identifying a corpse by means of x-rays - unremarkable today, but at the time both shocking and innovative. Fun fact: Freeman was so committed to scientific accuracy in his writing that he personally conducted every experiment described in the series!
Freeman also pioneered the "reverse detective novel," where the reader knows who committed the crime and follows the detective's journey of discovery.
If you're looking for a place to start, I recommend The Red Thumb Mark (for a fun socio-technical puzzle around fingerprinting), Helen Vardon's Confession (one of his better characterized novels), and Mr. Pottermack's Oversight (for the reverse detective experience). There is only minor continuity within the series, so you can read them in any order.”
