Author
Percy James Brebner
1864-1922
Percy James Brebner (1864-1922) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Percy James Brebner
The Master Detective: Being Some Further Investigations of Christopher Quarles
"The Master Detective: Being Some Further Investigations of Christopher Quarles" by Percy James Brebner is a detective novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the astute and eccentric detective Christopher Quarles as he solves various intricate cases, starting with the mysterious disappearance of Sir Grenville Rusholm's body immediately after his supposed death. Quarles is accompanied by his friend and investigator Murray Wigan, who calls upon Quarles's expertise to unravel the enigma central to this startling crime. At the start of the book, we are introduced to a shocking scene where mourners gather for Sir Grenville Rusholm's funeral, only to discover that his coffin is inexplicably empty, save for two pieces of lead. This revelation prompts Wigan to seek out Quarles, who has vowed to retire from crime-solving. However, Quarles is ultimately drawn back into the fray, intrigued by the mystery. The opening chapters lay a complex groundwork for investigations involving themes of deception, social status, and familial ties. As they delve deeper, Quarles and Wigan consider various suspects, motives, and the implications behind the corpse's disappearance, setting the stage for a gripping whodunit that weaves through the murky waters of societal intrigue.
Christopher Quarles: College Professor and Master Detective
"Christopher Quarles: College Professor and Master Detective" by Percy James Brebner is a detective novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the titular character, Professor Christopher Quarles, who, despite being a professor of philosophy, is also an adept detective. The narrative focuses on his involvement in solving intricate cases, starting with the mysterious death of a man named Mr. Ratcliffe, showcasing Quarles’s unique methods and his relationship with the young detective, Wigan. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Wigan, who arrives at Blenheim Square to investigate the death of Mr. Ratcliffe, found dead in his study under suspicious circumstances. The narrative describes the peculiar details surrounding Ratcliffe's death: a sapphire stone positioned on his desk and a set of ivory boxes. Quarles enters the scene through his chance encounter with Wigan, and despite their initial differences, he expresses a keen interest in unraveling the mystery. The chapter vividly portrays Quarles's analytical thinking, as he begins to piece together clues and formulate theories about the circumstances leading to Ratcliffe's demise, setting the stage for a captivating blend of intellectual exploration and thrilling detective work.
Princess Maritza
"Princess Maritza" by Percy James Brebner is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Princess Maritza, a strong-willed young woman with royal blood who is caught in the political struggles and power dynamics of her homeland, Wallaria. In the opening chapters, she crosses paths with Desmond Ellerey, a man grappling with his own past and ambitions, setting the stage for a tale of adventure, romance, and political intrigue. At the start of the novel, the narrative introduces Desmond Ellerey, who is reflecting on his troubled past on a beautiful morning in the English countryside. As he navigates his thoughts, he encounters a spirited young woman who reveals herself to be Princess Maritza and expresses her fierce ambition to reclaim her rightful place in Wallaria. Their conversation touches on themes of desire, ambition, and the constraints posed by gender roles and political circumstances. Ellerey's fascination with Maritza sparks a sense of hope and ambition within him. Throughout the opening chapters, the political landscape of Wallaria is hinted at, setting up the inevitable conflicts and alliances that will challenge both characters as they seek their respective destinies.
The Light That Lures
"The Light That Lures" by Percy James Brebner is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set during the tumultuous times of the American Revolutionary War and the French Revolution, the story follows Richard Barrington, a young man who idolizes the heroic figure of Marquis de Lafayette and dreams of fighting for freedom and justice, inspired by the conflict of his era. The opening of the novel introduces Richard as a contemplative boy on a hummock by Chesapeake Bay, enamored by lofty dreams of heroism and adventure, contrasting sharply with the serene beauty surrounding him. As the narrative unfolds, he encounters the Marquis de Lafayette, who becomes a mentor and a source of inspiration. Lafayette's conversation with Richard reveals themes of duty, honor, and the significance of one's path in life, foreshadowing Richard’s journey from Virginia to France amidst conflict. The scene shifts dramatically as we then meet Richard as a man, traveling with his companion Seth to Paris, where they become embroiled in a web of intrigue and danger as they help a mysterious woman, Jeanne St. Clair, navigate a revolution that threatens their very lives.
Vayenne
"Vayenne" by Percy Brebner is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in the fictional Duchy of Montvilliers, giving the reader a glimpse into a tumultuous political landscape filled with ambition, intrigue, and the looming threat of conflict. The main character, Roger Herrick, a seemingly casual traveler, arrives in the city of Vayenne and becomes embroiled in unfolding events that could influence the fate of the duchy and its people. The opening of "Vayenne" introduces us to the scenery and atmosphere of the duchy as Roger Herrick arrives in the town, where he feels a strange connection despite being an outsider. He observes the tension in the air, particularly surrounding the impending demise of the Duke and the ambitions of Count Felix. During his stay at the Hôtel de la Croix Verte, Herrick overhears conspiratorial conversations that heighten the sense of danger and urgency. As chaos breaks out following the announcement of the Duke's death, Herrick finds himself wrongly accused of being a spy and thrust into a whirlwind of political machinations, leading to a thrilling adventure driven by intersecting destinies and the promise of love and loyalty.
The Brown Mask
"The Brown Mask" by Percy James Brebner is a historical novel written during the early 20th century. Set against a backdrop of adventure and intrigue, the story introduces key figures from the underbelly of society, including a charming highwayman known as the Galloping Hermit, who wears a mysterious brown mask. The unfolding drama touches on themes of love, honor, and the social dynamics of 17th century England, focusing on characters such as Gentleman Jack and Barbara Lanison, who navigate the dangerous and duplicitous world they inhabit. At the start of the novel, the scene is set in the "Punch-Bowl" tavern, an unassuming establishment frequented by social outcasts and highwaymen. Within its walls, a group of characters, including the swaggering Gentleman Jack, share tales of exploits and danger, eventually leading to a discussion about the infamous Galloping Hermit. The plot quickly accelerates when Jack is apprehended, capturing the attention of society and drawing in Barbara Lanison, a young woman of wealth and substance. She attends the trial of Gentleman Jack, encountering layers of deception, admiration, and moral ambiguity as relationships and societal perceptions begin to intertwine. The opening lays the groundwork for a gripping narrative revolving around honor, both in love and among thieves, with profound implications for its characters.