Ever read a book where the real mystery isn't the crime, but the family committing it? That's 'La dégringolade' in a nutshell. Emile Gaboriau, often called the father of the detective novel, takes us into the heart of the Gassaud family, wealthy and respected on the surface.

The Story

The story kicks off with the sudden death of the family patriarch. Inspector Lecoq, Gaboriau's famous detective, is called in. But instead of a simple murder case, he walks into a domestic war zone. Each family member—the widow, the children, the in-laws—has a motive and a secret. As Lecoq pieces together timelines and alibis, he uncovers a web of hidden debts, forbidden affairs, and desperate plans for inheritance. The investigation becomes a tour of a crumbling mansion, both literal and figurative.

Why You Should Read It

Forget fancy locked rooms; the genius here is the locked hearts. Gaboriau was a pioneer, and you can feel it. He's less interested in a convoluted puzzle and more in psychology. You'll find yourself suspecting everyone, then feeling sorry for them, then suspecting them again. The tension comes from the awful, relatable feeling of watching a family tear itself apart. Lecoq is a great guide—sharp, a bit cynical, and always three steps ahead of the squabbling relatives.

Final Verdict

This is a must-read for classic mystery fans who want to see where the genre started. If you love the psychological depth of a domestic thriller but enjoy the pacing of a 19th-century novel, this is your match. It's also fantastic for readers who enjoy stories about money, class, and the dark side of 'keeping up appearances.' Just be warned: you might side-eye your own relatives a bit more closely at the next family dinner.