Author

Emile Gaboriau

1832-1873

Emile Gaboriau (1832-1873) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.

Subjects

Books by Emile Gaboriau

Caught in the Net

"Caught in the Net" by Emile Gaboriau is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. This work explores the lives of marginalized individuals living in Paris, focusing on themes of love, poverty, and the social struggles of the time. The central characters appear to be Rose Pigoreau, a young woman struggling with her harsh reality, and Paul Violaine, her partner who is deeply entangled in his aspirations and despair. The opening of the narrative paints a bleak picture of life in Paris during a severe winter, introducing us to the dismal Hotel de Perou, where Rose and Paul reside. It describes their precarious financial situation, eliciting sympathy for their hardship. Paul is depicted as an aspiring musician, yet he faces repeated failures, further frustrating Rose, who becomes increasingly impatient with their dire circumstances. As Rose consults her cards for fortune in the midst of their struggle, a seemingly kind old man, Daddy Tantaine, enters the scene with an unexpected offer of financial help, which sets the stage for a turning point in their fate. The interactions among these characters foreshadow the complexities and moral dilemmas they will face as the story unfolds.

File No. 113

"File No. 113" by Emile Gaboriau is a detective novel set in mid-19th century Paris. The story centers on a mysterious robbery at the bank of M. Andre Fauvel, where a significant sum of three hundred and fifty thousand francs has vanished without a trace. As the investigation unfolds, the primary suspect emerges as Prosper Bertomy, the bank’s head cashier, leading to a tense exploration of loyalty, betrayal, and the pursuit of justice. The opening of the novel introduces the aftermath of the robbery, revealing the chaotic confusion in the bank, where clerks react in disbelief as Prosper announces the loss. The narrative also highlights the dynamics between Prosper and his employer, M. Fauvel, as suspicion begins to cloud the atmosphere. As the police become involved, a public spectacle arises around the crime, with Prosper grappling not only with his innocence but also with his own tumultuous feelings, especially when a love interest, Nina Gypsy, becomes involved. This intricate setup foreshadows a gripping tale of intrigue, as the motives behind the theft come into question and the stakes grow ever higher.

Baron Trigault's Vengeance

"Baron Trigault's Vengeance" by Emile Gaboriau is a novel likely written in the late 19th century, serving as a sequel to "The Count's Millions." The story revolves around Pascal Ferailleur, a man consumed by a desire for vengeance after being wrongfully accused and disgraced, which has cost him a promising future and the love of a woman named Marguerite. The narrative delves into themes of revenge, honor, and the depths of human emotion in the context of betrayal and societal intrigue. At the start of the novel, we find Pascal grappling with despair after a calamitous slander that implicates him and jeopardizes his relationship with Marguerite. His mother, Madame Ferailleur, tries to pull him from the depths of his anguish as they discuss hiring a new cook, Madame Vantrasson, who unexpectedly brings disturbing news about Marguerite’s past. As the plot unfolds, it becomes clear that Pascal’s quest for retribution is tied to powerful adversaries, including the enigmatic Baron Trigault and the notorious Marquis de Valorsay. The opening establishes a complex web of relationships and sets the stage for a dramatic clash of wills in a society rife with scandal and deception.

Other People's Money

"Other People's Money" by Emile Gaboriau is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Vincent Favoral, a cashier of the Mutual Credit Society, who is suddenly accused of embezzling large sums of money, sending shockwaves through his family and community. As the narrative unfolds, it explores themes of financial deception, social reputation, and the complexities of familial relationships. The opening portion of the novel sets the scene in the quiet Rue St. Gilles in Paris, where the daily life and behaviors of Mr. Favoral are meticulously outlined, illustrating him as a man of routine and reliability. The curiosity of neighbors is piqued when a servant, ostensibly looking for information about Favoral, raises questions about his character. Through conversations among the locals, readers learn of Favoral's seemingly reputable nature and his family's dynamics, including the strained relationship with his son Maxence and the beautiful but unmarried daughter Gilberte. This initial atmosphere of community scrutiny and the introduction of Favoral’s impending crisis foreshadows the upheaval his sudden misfortune will bring to both his personal life and those around him.

Monsieur Lecoq, v. 1

"Monsieur Lecoq, v. 1" by Émile Gaboriau is a detective novel published in 1868. When policemen respond to a deadly brawl in a Parisian bar, Inspector Gévrol sees a simple murder case. But young detective Lecoq suspects something far more complex—a staged crime involving disguised aristocrats and mysterious accomplices. Following footprints in the snow and coded clues, Lecoq pursues an investigation that reveals layers of deception, while his suspect attempts suicide and powerful figures behave strangely. This founding work of detective fiction introduces methodical investigative techniques that would influence the genre for generations.

Monsieur Lecoq — Volume 1
 L'enquête

"Monsieur Lecoq — Volume 1" by Émile Gaboriau is a detective novel serialized in 1868. When a deadly brawl erupts in a Parisian bar, leaving bodies scattered and one suspect in custody, veteran Inspector Gévrol dismisses it as a simple tavern fight. But young policeman Lecoq sees something more sinister beneath the surface. Following mysterious footprints in the snow and deciphering cryptic clues, he uncovers evidence of a sophisticated conspiracy involving disguised aristocrats and vanished accomplices, transforming what seemed obvious into an intricate puzzle.

The Clique of Gold

"The Clique of Gold" by Emile Gaboriau is a novel written during the late 19th century. The book delves into the dark underbelly of Parisian society, focusing on the lives of its residents in an intricately described apartment building. Central to the story are the characters of Henrietta, a young girl suffering from the horrors of poverty, and Papa Ravinet, a second-hand dealer whose interest may intertwine with her fate. At the start of "The Clique of Gold," the narrative introduces us to No. 23 in Grange Street, a seemingly respectable yet sinister residence with a reputation marred by tales of its inhabitants. We learn of a tragic incident as the residents discover young Henrietta’s suicide attempt in her room due to dire straits. This event draws the combined attention of several neighbors, particularly Papa Ravinet, who seems to have ulterior motives in his actions of compassion for Henrietta. The opening sets the stage for a tale of intrigue, moral ambiguity, and societal commentary, as various characters navigate their personal struggles against the backdrop of a ruthless city.

The Lerouge Case

"The Lerouge Case" by Emile Gaboriau is a detective novel likely written in the mid-19th century. The story introduces the mysterious death of Widow Lerouge, whose sudden disappearance leads her neighbors to alert the police. As the investigation unfolds, various characters—including the diligent investigating magistrate M. Daburon and the keen detective Tabaret—navigate through clues and testimonies to uncover the truth behind the crime. At the start of the novel, the residents of La Jonchere grow concerned about the absence of Widow Lerouge, prompting them to seek police intervention. Upon entering her cottage, authorities discover a scene of chaos and horror: the widow’s lifeless body, signs of struggle, and evidence suggestive of foul play. As investigators sift through contradictory witness statements and delve into Lerouge's past, they unearth tantalizing hints about her potential wealth and mysterious connections, setting the stage for the unraveling of a complex plot involving deception, hidden identities, and dark secrets tied to the widow's life.

The Honor of the Name

"The Honor of the Name" by Emile Gaboriau is a novel set during the early 19th century, specifically in the tumultuous post-Napoleonic period of France. The story opens in the small village of Sairmeuse, where villagers grapple with the return of the Bourbon monarchy and the potential loss of their newly acquired lands. The protagonist, M. Lacheneur, is a former ploughboy who has risen to prominence by buying the estate of the Duc de Sairmeuse amid the political upheaval, but his world is shaken by the duke's unexpected return. At the start of the novel, the village is abuzz with anxiety and trepidation as news spreads about the duke's impending arrival; whispers of his claim to the land threaten the peasants who had purchased it. M. Lacheneur, now a lord in his own right, finds himself tormented by the possibility of returning the estate he acquired with money that was entrusted to him by the late Mlle. Armande de Sairmeuse. Tension mounts as characters including Father Chupin, a notorious thief with a vendetta against Lacheneur, and the d'Escorval family, who represent the old nobility, are introduced. Themes of honor, social status, and the consequences of ambition permeate this intricately woven narrative, setting the stage for conflicts that will clash ideals and loyalties throughout the story.

Within an Inch of His Life

"Within an Inch of His Life" by Emile Gaboriau is a mystery novel set in the late 19th century. The story begins with chaos in the suburb of Sauveterre, where a peasant urgently informs the mayor about a devastating fire at Valpinson, the residence of Count Claudieuse, who has also been shot. As the events unfold, we are introduced to a cast of characters, including Count Claudieuse, his wife, and the mayor, who are soon engulfed in the investigation of the incident that could cost lives and reputations. The opening of the novel sets a dramatic stage, recounting how the mayor is awakened in the dead of night by frantic news of both a fire and an attack on the count. The tension escalates as the community mobilizes to address the chaos, revealing a portrait of a small-town grappling with fear and uncertainty. Count Claudieuse is described as gravely injured, creating urgency around finding the assailant. The arrival of Cocoleu, a mentally challenged man who claims he has seen the crime, adds an unpredictable element to the narrative, as his accusations against a local nobleman raise the stakes for all involved.

The Count's Millions

"The Count's Millions" by Emile Gaboriau is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story is set in Paris and revolves around the enigmatic Count de Chalusse, his tumultuous household, and the mystery surrounding his wealth after an unfortunate incident leaves him incapacitated. The opening introduces the key characters, including the count’s beautiful ward, Marguerite, and the various servants who are embroiled in the intrigue and drama that unfolds with the count's sudden illness. The opening of the novel depicts a stormy evening where the servants at the Hotel de Chalusse engage in gossip about their master and the oppressive atmosphere of the mansion. Their chatter is interrupted by the alarming arrival of a cab driver, who brings the count home in a state of unconsciousness after what appears to be a stroke. As the servants react with a mix of concern and selfish speculation about their futures, Marguerite appears on the scene, expressing deep anguish at the site of her guardian's condition. As the doctor arrives to assess the count's dire state, Marguerite learns that his earlier distress may have been triggered by a mysterious letter that he tore up, hinting at a connection to a larger intrigue that intertwines their fates. The opening lays the groundwork for a tale steeped in mystery, family secrets, and the struggle over immense wealth.

The Champdoce Mystery

"The Champdoce Mystery" by Emile Gaboriau is a novel written in the late 19th century and serves as a sequel to "Caught in the Net." The story revolves around the complex life of Louis Norbert de Champdoce, the son of the eccentric and miserly Duke de Champdoce. As Norbert struggles with the oppressive nature of his father's ambitions and their impact on his own desires, he becomes embroiled in a world of love, societal expectations, and class dynamics. The opening of the novel introduces the reader to the setting and characters, beginning with a journey from Poitiers to the Duke's estate. We meet the Duke, a character with a troubled past who believes that living like a peasant will restore his family's former glory. His approach to raising Norbert has led to an upbringing steeped in labor and duty, leaving the young man naive to the outside world. The narrative builds as Norbert visits Poitiers for the first time, where his encounter with old friends and new faces catalyzes a shift in his worldview, especially upon meeting Diana de Laurebourg. This initial meeting sparks a love that complicates their fates against the backdrop of their families' socioeconomic standings and the Duke's controlling ambitions, setting the stage for the drama that will unfold.

The Mystery of Orcival

"The Mystery of Orcival" by Émile Gaboriau is a detective novel published in 1867. When poachers discover the Countess of Tremorel's body near her ransacked castle, her husband has vanished and a suspect quickly emerges. But detective M. Lecoq of the Sûreté believes the crime scene has been deliberately staged with false clues to mislead investigators. As Lecoq reconstructs the real timeline and uncovers contradictions, he devises a bold plan—though success remains far from certain in this influential early mystery.

Monsieur Lecoq — Volume2
 L'honneur du nom

"Monsieur Lecoq — Volume 2" by Émile Gaboriau is a novel serialized in 1868. When policemen respond to a deadly brawl in a Parisian bar, young detective Monsieur Lecoq suspects the case is far more complex than it appears. While his superior dismisses it as a simple tavern murder, Lecoq discovers clues pointing to hidden identities, mysterious accomplices, and upper-class intrigue. As he pursues leads on two escaped women and unravels layers of deception, the energetic detective must prove his theory against mounting obstacles.

Les esclaves de Paris

"Les esclaves de Paris" by Émile Gaboriau is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story unfolds against the backdrop of Paris, exploring themes of poverty and social struggle through the lives of its characters. The main characters introduced are Rose Pigoreau, a young woman living in destitution, and Paul Violaine, a man grappling with despair and their shared hardships. The opening of the novel portrays a bitterly cold day in Paris as the young couple, Rose and Paul, navigate their grim reality in a decrepit boarding house called the Hôtel du Pérou. Rose, who is struggling with the burdens of poverty, plays with a deck of cards, seeking solace in their predictions about the future, while Paul expresses his despair over their situation. Their conversation reveals their dire financial straits, with the looming threat of eviction by their landlord. Just as they ponder their bleak future, they receive an unexpected visit from the enigmatic Père Tantaine, who offers to help in their time of need, but his intentions remain cloaked in mystery as he proposes a loan that sets off a chain of events shaping their fates.

Monsieur Lecoq, v. 2

"Monsieur Lecoq, v. 2" by Émile Gaboriau is a detective novel published in 1868. When Parisian police respond to a deadly brawl in a dangerous bar, young detective Lecoq sees beyond the obvious explanation. While his superior dismisses it as a simple pub fight, Lecoq discovers hidden clues—mysterious footprints in the snow, disguised identities, and cryptic references—suggesting a far more complex conspiracy. His relentless investigation uncovers layers of deception that challenge everything the case initially appeared to be.

Le petit vieux des Batignolles

"Le petit vieux des Batignolles" by Émile Gaboriau is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a bizarre murder case involving a retired coiffeur, Anténor Pigoreau, whose death raises intriguing suspicions about his family, particularly his nephew and his beautiful wife, Clara. As the narrative unfolds, the tale is narrated by J.-B. Casimir Godeuil, an aspiring writer who becomes embroiled in the investigation spearheaded by his enigmatic neighbor, Monsieur Méchinet. At the start of the narrative, a well-dressed man delivers a mysterious manuscript to the editorial offices of "Petit Journal", which intrigues the staff. As they discuss its potential publication, they realize that the author, J.-B.-Casimir Godeuil, lacks contact details, sparking curiosity about his identity. The opening sets the stage for Godeuil's memories of a recent murder he witnessed while living in Paris. He describes his encounters with his neighbor, Monsieur Méchinet, leading up to the discovery of a crime scene where an elderly man lies dead. As Godeuil becomes more involved with the murder investigation, the complexity of the case unfolds, revealing layers of deception, familial ties, and the darker side of human nature.

La vie infernale 1. Pascale et Marguerite; 2. Lia d'Argelès

"La vie infernale" by Émile Gaboriau is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Count Chalusse and his young ward Marguerite, exploring themes of mystery, family secrets, and the human condition amidst the backdrop of Parisian society. It presents a cast of characters that includes the enigmatic count, the devoted Marguerite, and a variety of domestic staff who weave through their lives, hinting at underlying tensions and hidden truths. The opening of the novel sets a dark and stormy scene at the Hôtel de Chalusse, where the household staff gathers, concerned about the count’s well-being. The narrative introduces us to Marguerite, a striking young woman who displays a mix of strength and vulnerability, and the count, who is later discovered to have suffered a mysterious accident. As the suspense builds, tension arises among the staff, revealing their curiosity and concern for the count's fate. The atmosphere is charged with an air of foreboding, as Marguerite's fear for the count's life leads her to seek help amid a web of rumors and secrets that threaten to unravel their lives.

Le crime d'Orcival

"Le crime d'Orcival" by Émile Gaboriau is a French detective novel published in 1867. When poachers discover the lifeless body of a countess near her ransacked château, the police quickly arrest a suspect who seems guilty. But detective M. Lecoq arrives to restart the investigation from scratch, uncovering fabricated clues and false evidence designed to mislead. He realizes the crime scene has been carefully staged, with planted details meant to confuse investigators. The case's resolution remains uncertain as Lecoq devises his plan.

Les cotillons célèbres

"Les cotillons célèbres" by Émile Gaboriau is a historical novel published in 1861. This documentary-style work explores influential women who shaped the French monarchy, from Queen Frédégonde of the Frankish kingdom to the famous mistresses of Louis XIV and Louis XV's courts. Gaboriau examines figures like Agnès Sorel, Diane de Poitiers, and others who "feminized" French royalty through their power and influence, contributing to France's emerging national narrative during a period of European geopolitical transformation.

La corde au cou

"La corde au cou" by Émile Gaboriau is a detective novel published in 1873. When fire ravages the Château de Valpinson in June 1871, a village witness accuses Jacques de Boiscoran of arson and murder. With damning circumstances mounting against him and a bitter hunting dispute providing motive, the suspect's desperate family calls upon investigator Manuel Forgat. Unlike Gaboriau's earlier works, this novel follows the accused man rather than the detective, creating intense suspense as readers question whether innocence can prevail.

Le 13e Hussards, types, profils, esquisses et croquis militaires... á pied et á cheval

"Le 13e Hussards, types, profils, esquisses et croquis militaires... à pied et …" by Émile Gaboriau is a military-themed narrative likely written in the late 19th century. The book explores the life of Gédéon Flambert, a somewhat reluctant new recruit who finds himself serving in the 13th Hussards, a cavalry regiment. Through humor and detailed observations, the text delves into military rituals, the absurdities of soldiering, and the bond between soldiers and their horses. The opening of the book introduces Gédéon Flambert, who reflects on the servile nature of his service, primarily focused on the demanding care of his horse. He realizes that he has joined the army almost by accident, under the misguided belief that it would lead to a glorious service to his country, only to find himself devoted to the whims of his horse. As Gédéon navigates the challenges of military life, including strict discipline and the seemingly frivolous customs of the regiment, the narrative foreshadows a journey filled with comedic situations and insight into a soldier's reality.

Le capitaine Coutanceau

"Le capitaine Coutanceau" by Émile Gaboriau is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book centers around Captain Coutanceau, a revered veteran of France's past wars, whose family is intertwined with pivotal events leading to a national crisis. The story probes themes of duty, honor, and the personal sacrifices made during wartime, exploring the generational impact of historical conflicts. The opening of the novel sets the scene in a close-knit Parisian neighborhood where discussions unfold among friends and family at the Coutanceau household. As the character of Captain Coutanceau is introduced, his rich history and long-standing reputation for bravery are highlighted, bringing to life the emotions surrounding the declaration of war with Prussia. The narrative captures the palpable tension and fervor among the characters, particularly focusing on the young Coutanceau grandsons' eagerness to enlist and fulfill their family's legacy. This introductory glimpse into the family dynamics, historical context, and impending conflict sets the stage for deeper explorations of the personal and societal repercussions of war.

Les amours d'une empoisonneuse

"Les amours d'une empoisonneuse" by Émile Gaboriau is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in 17th century France, during the reign of Louis XIV, and centers around the intricacies of love, betrayal, and the dark allure of poison as a means of revenge. Key characters include the enigmatic chevalier de Sainte-Croix and the beautiful marquise de Brinvilliers, whose tumultuous relationship intertwines with schemes of deceit and danger. At the start of the narrative, the reader is introduced to a lively and decadent scene at La Vienne, a luxurious establishment where the upper echelons of society indulge in pleasures hidden from the public eye. The atmosphere is electric with card games and flirtations, particularly surrounding Sainte-Croix, a captivating figure of charm and recklessness. However, as the evening progresses, tensions escalate when accusations of infidelity surface, leading to a violent confrontation. Meanwhile, the marquise is introduced through her clandestine meeting with Sainte-Croix, foreshadowing the complexity of their relationship as they navigate societal constraints and personal desires, ultimately leading to darker paths of vengeance that intertwine their fates with the sinister allure of poison.