A Coffin for Dimitrios

by Eric Ambler
A Coffin for Dimitrios cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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  • ID: 8562
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2025-12-22
  • Publisher: New York : Dell Pub.
  • Published: 1939-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

Charles Latimer, a mystery writer, finds himself drawn into a dangerous world of espionage and crime after a chance encounter with a Turkish colonel. Intrigued by the life of Dimitrios, a notorious figure whose body has been identified in an Istanbul morgue, Latimer begins to unravel a complex web of assassination, drugs, and treachery that spans the Balkans. /n/n As Latimer delves deeper into Dimitrios' past, he discovers a shadowy network of political and criminal maneuvers that threaten to consume him. The novel is set against the backdrop of the tumultuous years between the world wars, adding a layer of historical context to the thrilling narrative.

Reviews
Jordan M Poss · Jordan M Poss · 2024-03-07
great 4.00

Ambler's writing is strong and direct, with precisely observed details that enhance the storytelling. The novel is praised for its excellent prose and engaging narrative.

The reviewer commends Ambler's writing style, describing it as strong and direct, with a keen eye for detail. This precise observation adds a layer of authenticity to the story, making it more immersive. The reviewer also notes that the narrative is engaging and well-crafted, keeping the reader hooked from start to finish. The blend of mystery and espionage is expertly handled, making it a compelling read. The reviewer appreciates the depth and complexity of the characters, which adds to the overall enjoyment of the book.

Quick quotes

    Ambler is an excellent writer. Strong, direct prose and precisely observed

    The novel is praised for its excellent prose and engaging narrative

    The blend of mystery and espionage is expertly handled

Heads Film Reviews · 2019-03-13
brilliant 4.20

The novel is described as a true gem in the spy and mystery genre, with a focus on mystery rather than espionage. The reviewer highlights the clever and witty narrative style.

This novel is lauded as a standout in the spy and mystery genre, though the reviewer notes that it leans more towards mystery. The clever and witty narrative style is a highlight, keeping the reader engaged with its suspense and intricate plot. The reviewer appreciates the unique way the story unfolds, making it a memorable experience. The blend of mystery and espionage is expertly handled, with a focus on the complexities of the characters and their world. The reviewer also notes that the novel is not just a typical spy story but a deep dive into the mysteries and intricacies of the characters' lives.

Quick quotes

    A Coffin for Dimitrios by Eric Ambler is a true gem in the spy and mystery genre

    Though its really not so much a spy story as it is a mystery

    A Coffin for Dimitrios blends politics, espionage, banking, and more

The Rapsheet · 2008-12-19
excellent 4.50

The novel is praised as a pivotal work in thriller fiction and existentialist literature, blending politics, espionage, and banking. The story is noted for its insightful and humorous meta-narration.

This novel is celebrated for its blend of thriller and existentialist elements, making it a standout in both genres. The reviewer highlights the clever and witty narrative style, which keeps the reader engaged with its suspense and intricate plot. The meta-narration on the protagonist's journey adds depth, making it a fascinating read. The reviewer also appreciates the unique way the story intertwines various themes, making it a memorable experience. The novel is not just a spy story but a deep dive into the mysteries and complexities of the characters and their world.

Quick quotes

    A pivotal novel in the thriller fiction genre, and a remarkable work of existentialist literature

    Ambler provides wonderfully insightful, even humorous meta-narration on Latimer and the circumstances of his journey

    A Coffin for Dimitrios blends politics, espionage, banking, and more

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