The Celebrated Cases of Judge Dee is a captivating read, blending historical fiction with intricate detective work in ancient China. Praised for its rich cultural details and engaging mysteries, it offers a unique glimpse into Tang Dynasty justice. However, some readers find the translation uneven and the pacing slow at times, potentially diminishing enjoyment.

Readers who enjoy classic detective stories with historical and cultural depth would appreciate The Celebrated Cases of Judge Dee. Fans of Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes series or Robert van Gulik's other Judge Dee mysteries will find the combination of crime-solving and ancient Chinese legal practices particularly engaging.

The Celebrated Cases of Judge Dee by Anonymous is an 18th-century Chinese mystery novel where Judge Dee solves three intricate cases: "Double Murder at Dawn," "The Case of the Strange Corpse," and "The Poisoned Bride." The narrative spans various locations, detailing Dee’s astute detective work while reflecting Chinese customs and societal norms of the Tang dynasty.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Informative / Challenging / Dark

- The character Judge Dee, featured in The Celebrated Cases of Judge Dee, is based on a historical figure named Di Renjie, who was a renowned magistrate and statesman during the Tang Dynasty in China.
- The novel is a work of historical fiction that was anonymously written in the 18th century, drawing inspiration from traditional Chinese detective stories and serving as an example of the gong'an genre.
- Dutch author and diplomat Robert van Gulik translated The Celebrated Cases of Judge Dee into English in the 1940s and went on to write his own series of Judge Dee detective novels.

**Judge Dee**  
The magistrate of Chang-ping, responsible for investigating crimes, apprehending suspects, and serving as judge. He is known for his honesty, wisdom, and commitment to justice.

**Sergeant Liang Hoong**  
Judge Dee's chief assistant and advisor, an older man with lifelong service to the Dee family. His familiarity with the judge allows for candid discussions and support during investigations.

**Ma Joong**  
A reformed highway robber who works for Judge Dee as a fighter and investigator. Known for his adventurous spirit and courage in apprehending dangerous criminals.

**Mrs. Bee, née Djou**  
The widow of a shopkeeper in Huang-hua Village, noted for her beauty and strong will. She is involved in a central case investigated by Judge Dee.

**Djao Wah-chuan**  
A tall, honest man formerly in the silk business, versed in medicine and boxing. He plays a crucial role in providing information and aiding in a key investigation.

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Chapters 1-3	

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Chapters 4-10	

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Chapters 11-15

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Interlude

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Chapters 16-19

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Chapters 20-23	

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Chapters 24-27

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Chapters 28-30

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