Rufus King

Rufus King (1893-1967) was an American author of detective fiction, active during the genre's Golden Age. Born in New York, he studied at Yale and later worked as a journalist before turning to writing. His first novel, 'Murder by the Clock' (1926), introduced the urbane detective Lieutenant Valcour and was praised for its ingenious locked-room puzzle. King went on to write over a dozen novels and numerous short stories, often featuring Valcour or other investigators. His work is noted for its crisp prose, fair-play plotting, and psychological insight. Though less prolific than some contemporaries, King earned respect from critics and fellow writers, and his books were adapted for film and radio. He also wrote screenplays in Hollywood. King's legacy endures among collectors and fans of classic mysteries, with 'Murder by the Clock' frequently cited as a standout of the era.