author

Philip MacDonald

1900–1980

Best known for clever thrillers and detective stories, this British-born novelist also worked in Hollywood as a screenwriter. His books helped shape the classic mystery era, with puzzles, tension, and a brisk, modern style that still reads smoothly.

1 Audiobook

The rasp

The rasp

by Philip MacDonald

About the author

Born in London on 5 November 1900, Philip MacDonald came from a literary family: he was the son of writer Ronald MacDonald and the grandson of novelist George MacDonald. He built a reputation as a prolific writer of crime fiction and suspense, becoming especially known for his mysteries and thrillers during the golden age of detective fiction.

Alongside his novels, he also wrote for the screen, contributing to film work in Britain and Hollywood. That mix of detective plotting and cinematic pace helped give his fiction an energetic feel, balancing classic puzzle elements with strong momentum.

MacDonald died on 10 December 1980. He is still remembered for smart, fast-moving mysteries and for a career that connected popular fiction with early twentieth-century film.