As a Holmes and mysteries-in-general fan, I knew of Dr. Thorndyke, but had never read any of the stories.  This volume was the perfect starting point, being the first three novels and a set of early short stories.  For the most part, you know who the perpetrator is.  How does Thorndyke scientifically prove the criminal's guilt is the essence of the story. (Although I totally missed the criminal in The Eye of Osiris.)  R. Austin Freeman was a wonderful wordsmith, and the stories flow naturally.  I do miss the quirks that make Holmes a character in my mind's eye, however John Thorndyke handily solves the crime with the able assistance of Jervis and Polton.  I hope with more readings (and I have bought them all now), I will be able to put a face to CSI precursor.