Rational Scrutiny

Rational Scrutiny explores the qualities of detective characters Chess Hanrahan and Cyrus Skeen, highlighting their roles as both action-oriented individuals and intellectual problem-solvers in the detective fiction genre. The book discusses how these detectives approach crime-solving through unique methods, emphasizing the importance of understanding human volition and solving problems rooted in morality and values. Cline also challenges traditional views of literary detectives, asserting that the best fictional detectives possess intelligence, integrity, and an aversion to sham and pettiness.