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Crime Fiction
Browse Crime Fiction as a public-domain reading list on Rivro, with free classics, authors, subjects, and related books.
Crime and Punishment
Fyodor Dostoyevsky
Crime and Punishment
"Crime and Punishment" by Fyodor Dostoevsky is a novel published in 1866. It follows Rodion Raskolnikov, an impoverished former law student in Saint Petersburg who plans to murder an unscrupulous pawnbroker. He convinces himself that certain crimes are justifiable if committed by "extraordinary" men pursuing higher goals. Once the deed is done, however, he is consumed by confusion, paranoia, and guilt as his theoretical justifications crumble and he faces the internal and external consequences of his actions.
The Extraordinary Adventures of Arsène Lupin, Gentleman-Burglar
Maurice Leblanc
The Extraordinary Adventures of Arsène Lupin, Gentleman-Burglar
"The Extraordinary Adventures of Arsène Lupin, Gentleman-Burglar" by Maurice Leblanc is a collection of stories published in 1907. This debut collection introduces the charming and cunning Arsène Lupin, a master thief who outsmarts police and high society alike. Through nine tales of daring heists, clever disguises, and audacious escapes, Lupin proves himself an unmatched criminal genius. From shipboard robberies to prison breaks, he taunts authorities—including a famous English detective—while stealing priceless treasures with impeccable style and wit.
The Insidious Dr. Fu Manchu
Sax Rohmer
The Insidious Dr. Fu Manchu
"The Insidious Dr. Fu Manchu" by Sax Rohmer is a novel published in 1913. When Nayland Smith arrives unexpectedly from Burma, Dr. Petrie learns of a sinister threat: the brilliant Chinese criminal Dr. Fu Manchu is targeting men connected to India. Through London's opium dens and English country estates, Smith pursues this master poisoner and chemist, who leads a mysterious "Third Party" and seeks to capture Europe's best engineers for an unknown purpose. But Fu Manchu proves a cunning adversary who outwits his pursuers at every turn.
The Yellow Claw
Sax Rohmer
The Yellow Claw
"The Yellow Claw" by Sax Rohmer is a mystery novel written during the early 20th century. The story begins in the atmospheric setting of a novelist's study and takes a dramatic turn when beauty and terror intertwine as the glamorous yet troubled Lady of the Civet Furs arrives, seeking help from the reclusive writer Henry Leroux. As events unfold, intrigue surrounding her appearance suggests a deeper plot involving murder, a missing husband, and sinister forces at play. At the start of the book, we find Leroux engrossed in his writing when a frantic, beautiful woman appears at his door, fearing for her safety. This woman, covered in a luxurious civet fur cloak, brings an air of mystery and urgency, revealing her distress as she pleads for Leroux's assistance. The tension escalates when she collapses, revealing the precarious nature of her situation. As Leroux's world spirals into chaos, the narrative introduces a cast of characters that includes a doctor and a politician, setting the stage for a complex web of murder and deception, firmly establishing the tone of suspense that defines the novel.
Bat Wing
Sax Rohmer
Bat Wing
"Bat Wing" by Sax Rohmer is a mystery novel likely written during the early 20th century. The story revolves around the enigmatic character Paul Harley, a private detective in London, as he becomes embroiled in a bizarre case involving Colonel Juan Menendez, a mysterious Spanish figure who fears for his life due to dark forces and superstitions tied to Voodoo. Themes of danger, suspense, and the interplay between the exotic and the familiar permeate the narrative. The opening of "Bat Wing" introduces readers to Paul Harley in his London office just as he is about to finish a report for the Home Office. His day is interrupted by the arrival of Colonel Menendez, who expresses his urgent need for Harley's services. As the conversation unfolds, the Colonel reveals his paranoia, detailing a series of ominous events that suggest he is being watched and targeted for harm. The curious atmosphere thickens when he presents Harley with a bat wing, which he claims is linked to supernatural threats originating from his past in Cuba. In this beginning, we're set on a path that hints at supernatural elements woven through a detective story as Harley prepares to confront these unsettling mysteries.
Arsène Lupin
Maurice Leblanc
Arsène Lupin
"Arsène Lupin" by Maurice Leblanc is a collection of stories published in 1907. This debut collection introduces the charming gentleman thief Arsène Lupin through nine tales of audacious crimes and clever escapes. From evading capture aboard an ocean liner to orchestrating thefts while imprisoned, Lupin outwits police and victims alike with masterful disguises and ingenious schemes. The stories follow detective Ganimard's futile attempts to catch the elusive criminal, who always seems one step ahead. One adventure even features a famous English detective, later renamed to avoid legal complications.
Dope
Sax Rohmer
Dope
"Dope" by Sax Rohmer is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story introduces Monte Irvin, an alderman in London, whose life begins to spiral into chaos as he grapples with marital troubles and suspicions surrounding his wife, Rita. The plot thickens with the involvement of an enigmatic figure named Kazmah, a dream-reader, and the world of drugs and deceit that unfurls as Irvin seeks the truth. At the start of the book, the focus is on Monte Irvin's mounting anxiety as he waits for his wife, who is apparently entangled in a secretive affair. Irvin plants himself in his library, pacing anxiously and contemplating the disarray of his life. The narrative quickly introduces key characters, particularly the charming but troubled Margaret Halley and the aristocratic Sir Lucien Pyne, as well as the mysterious Kazmah. As Irvin fears the revelation of his worst suspicions regarding his wife’s loyalty, he receives troubling news that complicates the situation further, setting the stage for a tangled web of intrigue, betrayal, and potential danger that appears centered around the mystique of Kazmah and the illicit drug trade.
The Crystal Stopper
Maurice Leblanc
The Crystal Stopper
"The Crystal Stopper" by Maurice Leblanc is a novel likely written during the early 20th century. The story centers around Arsène Lupin, a clever and audacious thief known for his charismatic personality and clever heists. In this installment, Lupin navigates a web of intrigue involving treachery, murder, and a mysterious crystal stopper that holds great importance, intertwined with the lives of other characters, including Gilbert and Vaucheray, who face grave consequences. At the start of the book, the atmosphere is tense as Lupin and his accomplices prepare for a break-in at the Villa Marie-Thérèse. The chapter quickly escalates with the unexpected arrival of Léonard, the deputy's valet, who becomes a casualty in the ensuing chaos. The narrative showcases Lupin's quick thinking and resourcefulness as he faces internal betrayals, particularly when he learns that the treasures he sought may not be what they seem. The opening sets the stage for a complex plot, introducing elements of deception and the weight of choices that lead both Lupin and his associates down a perilous path.
The Hollow Needle; Further adventures of Arsène Lupin
Maurice Leblanc
The Hollow Needle; Further adventures of Arsène Lupin
"The Hollow Needle; Further adventures of Arsène Lupin" by Maurice Leblanc is a novel serialized between November 1908 and May 1909. The gentleman thief Arsène Lupin faces his most formidable opponent yet: Isidore Beautrelet, a gifted high school student turned amateur detective. At stake is an ancient secret passed down by French kings since Julius Caesar—the location of a legendary treasure containing queens' dowries and priceless jewels. Can the young detective outsmart the master thief and uncover the mystery of the Hollow Needle?
Tales of Chinatown
Sax Rohmer
Tales of Chinatown
"Tales of Chinatown" by Sax Rohmer is a collection of detective fiction written during the early 20th century. The book dives into the gritty and mysterious underbelly of London's Chinatown, exploring themes of crime, intrigue, and cultural clashes through the perspectives of various characters involved in the shadowy dealings of the notorious Huang Chow and his associates. The opening of the book introduces two characters, Jim Poland and Freddy Cohen, who are engaged in a tense conversation at a public house near Chinatown. Poland suspects Cohen's involvement in the recent death of a Chinaman and warns him about the dangers associated with old Huang Chow, hinting at hidden treasures and a web of crime surrounding the area. The dialogue sets a claustrophobic atmosphere filled with threats and unspoken fears, underlying the tension between the two men as they navigate the underworld's dangerous currents. Chief Inspector Kerry is soon introduced as he investigates the connection between these events and the deaths that plague the community, laying the groundwork for a story that intertwines mystery and crime against a backdrop of cultural intrigue.
Raffles: Further Adventures of the Amateur Cracksman
E. W. (Ernest William) Hornung
Raffles: Further Adventures of the Amateur Cracksman
"Raffles: Further Adventures of the Amateur Cracksman" by E. W. Hornung is a short story collection published in 1901. This second installment follows gentleman thief A. J. Raffles and his companion Bunny Manders after their reputations are destroyed. Raffles is presumed drowned, while Bunny emerges from prison struggling to survive. Their unexpected reunion launches them back into crime, but now as hardened criminals rather than respectable gentlemen. Eight connected stories trace their adventures through Victorian London, Italy, and ultimately to the Second Boer War.
The Amateur Cracksman
E. W. (Ernest William) Hornung
The Amateur Cracksman
"The Amateur Cracksman" by E. W. Hornung is a short story collection published in 1899. It introduces A. J. Raffles, a celebrated cricket champion and gentleman of London society who leads a secret double life as a jewel thief. Accompanied by his devoted friend Bunny Manders, Raffles executes daring burglaries targeting London's elite while evading the persistent Inspector Mackenzie of Scotland Yard. This collection of eight stories launched one of literature's most famous criminal characters.
The Quest of the Sacred Slipper
Sax Rohmer
The Quest of the Sacred Slipper
"The Quest of the Sacred Slipper" by Sax Rohmer is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The book revolves around a mysterious and sacred object, specifically a slipper once belonging to the Prophet Mohammed, which has become the center of intrigue and peril, drawing the interest of dangerous factions. The narrative follows the protagonist, journalist Mr. Cavanagh, as he navigates a web of deceit, danger, and the supernatural in pursuit of the truth behind the slipper's significance and the threats it subsequently brings. The beginning of the story sets the tone aboard the S.S. Mandalay, where a mysterious event involving an injured passenger ignites tension among the crew and travelers. Cavanagh, intrigued by the happenings, engages with a fellow passenger, Mr. Ahmad Ahmadeen, who hints at the significance of the unfolding events. Soon after, Cavanagh is introduced to Professor Deeping, whose scholarly pursuits appear to connect him to the slipper's dark history. A chilling series of violent incidents follow, marking those who come into contact with the slipper and establishing an ominous backdrop that hints at the presence of the cult-like Hashishin, led by the enigmatic Hassan of Aleppo. The narrative promises suspense as Cavanagh becomes embroiled in a quest filled with supernatural elements, perilous stakes, and a cast of characters each entwined with the fate of the relic.
Dead Men Tell No Tales
E. W. (Ernest William) Hornung
Dead Men Tell No Tales
"Dead Men Tell No Tales" by E. W. Hornung is a novel likely written during the late 19th century. The story unfolds on the voyage of the wooden clipper "Lady Jermyn", focusing on the complicated romantic entanglements and life-threatening situations encountered by its passengers, especially the protagonist, who is initially captivated by the young and beautiful Eva Denison. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to the protagonist, who recounts his reflections on love during a lengthy sea journey. He expresses a blend of fascination and irritation towards Eva Denison, a girl traveling with her step-father, who possesses both charm and faults that challenge the protagonist's guarded demeanor. As they navigate their interactions, tension builds aboard as rumors of a "mysterious cargo" circulate among the passengers. The opening chapters set the stage for a series of dramatic events that take a life-threatening turn, hinting at themes of love, loss, and survival against a backdrop of perilous maritime adventure.
The Return of Dr. Fu-Manchu
Sax Rohmer
The Return of Dr. Fu-Manchu
"The Return of Dr. Fu-Manchu" by Sax Rohmer is a novel likely written in the early 20th century, specifically during the period of fascination with Eastern mysteries and criminal psychology. This work serves as a continuation of the notorious adventures tied to the brilliant yet menacing character, Dr. Fu-Manchu, who embodies the "Yellow Peril" stereotype prevalent in literature of the time. The story engages readers with complex characters, such as Nayland Smith, a British commissioner determined to confront the diabolical intentions of Fu-Manchu and rescue his allies from impending danger. The opening of the novel introduces Dr. Petrie, who reminisces about his last communication with Nayland Smith, hinting at his current frustration and uncertainty regarding their mutual adversary, Fu-Manchu. The conversation shifts ominously as Petrie's visitor, the Rev. Eltham, expresses a deep-seated fear about the revival of Fu-Manchu's threat in London, recalling their previous harrowing encounters. The tension escalates when we learn of a mysterious telephone call summoning Petrie to a patient, only to discover it was a hoax. Meanwhile, Eltham vanishes under suspicious circumstances, heightening the sense of urgency and calamity. When Nayland Smith arrives, he reveals his fears that Eltham may have already fallen victim to Fu-Manchu's dark designs, setting the stage for the revival of their epic struggle.
A Thief in the Night: A Book of Raffles' Adventures
E. W. (Ernest William) Hornung
A Thief in the Night: A Book of Raffles' Adventures
"A Thief in the Night: A Book of Raffles' Adventures" by E. W. Hornung is a collection of short stories published in 1905. The third book featuring gentleman thief A. J. Raffles, it chronicles burglaries and close calls in late Victorian England, narrated by his accomplice Bunny Manders. The stories span different points in their criminal careers, from respectable gentlemen at the Albany to fugitives with ruined reputations, culminating in encounters with Scotland Yard and surprising revelations about Raffles's hidden acts of kindness.
Mr. Justice Raffles
E. W. (Ernest William) Hornung
Mr. Justice Raffles
"Mr. Justice Raffles" by E. W. Hornung is a novel published in 1909. It features the gentleman thief A. J. Raffles in his fourth and final adventure. This darker, full-length novel finds a cynical Raffles confronting Dan Levy, an unscrupulous moneylender who preys on wealthy young men through predatory loans. When Raffles takes it upon himself to teach Levy a lesson, he and his companion Bunny Manders become entangled in a dangerous game of blackmail, burglary, and ultimately murder.
An African Millionaire: Episodes in the Life of the Illustrious Colonel Clay
Grant Allen
An African Millionaire: Episodes in the Life of the Illustrious Colonel Clay
No description available.
Fire-Tongue
Sax Rohmer
Fire-Tongue
"Fire-Tongue" by Sax Rohmer is a detective novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Paul Harley, an unofficial investigator who is drawn into a web of dangerous intrigue after a distinguished client, Sir Charles Abingdon, reveals that he believes his life is in jeopardy. As the narrative unfolds, the reader is introduced to themes of surveillance and espionage, setting the stage for a complex investigation that may involve powerful enemies and hidden motives. The opening of the book introduces Paul Harley during an uneventful day in his Chancery Lane office. He reflects on cases from his past when suddenly Sir Charles Abingdon arrives, visibly troubled and fearful. As they talk, Sir Charles details his concerns of being followed and mentions a recent assault against him. His account is punctuated by the unsettling notion that he has been the target of an unknown enemy connected to a mysterious figure he calls "Fire-Tongue." After agreeing to dine with Sir Charles that evening to discuss matters further, tragedy strikes when Sir Charles collapses and utters the name "Nicol Brinn" alongside "Fire-Tongue," leaving Harley to unravel the connections between these troubling names and the imminent peril that now surrounds him.
Murder in the Gunroom
H. Beam Piper
Murder in the Gunroom
"Murder in the Gunroom" by H. Beam Piper is a mystery novel written in the early 1950s. The story centers around Colonel Jefferson Davis Rand, a private detective, who is hired to appraise and negotiate the sale of a deceased collector's extensive gun collection. However, the circumstances surrounding the death of Lane Fleming, the collector found dead in his locked gunroom, raise suspicions of foul play, prompting Rand to investigate both the collection's value and the mysterious circumstances of Fleming's death. The opening of the novel introduces Rand and sets up the central mystery. After Mrs. Gladys Fleming approaches him for help, Rand learns about the peculiar details surrounding her husband's death, including the fact that he was found with a Confederate-made revolver in his hand. The narrative paints a detailed backdrop of gun collecting and introduces supporting characters, such as the suspicious stepdaughters and a rival collector, Arnold Rivers. As Rand begins to untangle the web of relationships and motivations surrounding the firearms and the people who wanted Fleming's collection, he suspects that the death was not an accident but rather a carefully disguised murder. The beginning sets a suspenseful tone as Rand gears up to decipher the truth amidst personal conflicts and potential hidden agendas.
The Eight Strokes of the Clock
Maurice Leblanc
The Eight Strokes of the Clock
"The Eight Strokes of the Clock" by Maurice Leblanc is a novel written during the early 20th century. This work centers around the enigmatic figure of Prince Rénine and his thrilling encounters with mystery and adventure, often involving themes of love, justice, and the intricacies of human emotion. The narrative unfolds through intriguing situations and complex characters, setting the stage for a series of thrilling escapades. The opening of the novel introduces Hortense Daniel, who contemplates eloping with a man named Rossigny, while navigating complex family dynamics and societal expectations. As she plans to escape her stifling life with Rossigny, an encounter with Prince Rénine adds layers of tension and intrigue. Following a near-assassination attempt on her, Hortense embarks on a journey with Rénine, leading to the mysterious Château de Halingre. Here, the discovery of two skeletons and a hidden telescope unfolds a storyline steeped in crime and deception. This inciting incident hints at the broader mysteries that will challenge both Rénine's skills and Hortense's heart as the plot develops.
The Shadow of the Rope
E. W. (Ernest William) Hornung
The Shadow of the Rope
"The Shadow of the Rope" by E. W. Hornung is a fictional novel likely written in the early 20th century. The narrative unfolds through the perspective of Rachel Minchin, a young Australian woman caught in a tumultuous marriage who faces dire circumstances and ultimately becomes embroiled in a murder trial after her husband's unexpected death. The story explores themes of desperation, societal judgment, and the complexities of personal relationships as she struggles for autonomy and self-respect amidst her turbulent life. The opening of the book captures a pivotal moment in Rachel's life as she resolves to leave her husband, Alexander Minchin, after enduring his gambling and alcoholism. Her determination is palpable as she prepares to return to Australia, but the unexpected turn of events leads her to discover her husband dead in their home, a victim of a violent crime. The scene is charged with tension as the police arrive, and the narrative hints at the impending trial that will follow. Rachel’s conflicting emotions are evident as she grapples with both loss and the stigma of potential guilt, setting the stage for the courtroom drama and her quest for redemption that follows.
The Devil Doctor
Sax Rohmer
The Devil Doctor
"The Devil Doctor" by Sax Rohmer is a novel written in the early 20th century. The storyline revolves around the notorious Dr. Fu-Manchu, a cunning and sinister figure representing the 'Yellow Peril.' The narrative details the adventures of Dr. Petrie, who reconnects with his comrade Nayland Smith as they attempt to thwart the malevolent plans of Fu-Manchu, igniting feelings of suspense and dread as the plot unfolds. At the start of the novel, Dr. Petrie converses with the Rev. J. D. Eltham about their fears concerning Dr. Fu-Manchu, presumed to be a dangerous mastermind capable of wreaking havoc once more. As Eltham expresses his suspicions that Fu-Manchu may still be alive and plotting, a sense of urgency ensues, leading to a mysterious phone call that lures Petrie out. However, this call is revealed to be a trap as Eltham goes missing, heightening the tension and the stakes. The chapter culminates with Nayland Smith's startling arrival, warning that Eltham is in grave danger, revealing the novel’s central conflict and setting the stage for the impending confrontation with Fu-Manchu.
The Teeth of the Tiger
Maurice Leblanc
The Teeth of the Tiger
"The Teeth of the Tiger" by Maurice Leblanc is a novel written in the early 20th century. This adventure story revolves around the enigmatic character Don Luis Perenna, a former member of the Foreign Legion who is entangled in a complex plot involving a murder investigation and a mysterious inheritance. The narrative begins with a sense of urgency as the protagonist is summoned to prevent a looming double murder that has ties to an inheritance with massive financial implications. At the start of the novel, the Prefect of Police, M. Desmalions, is preparing to meet several individuals regarding a significant case, while Inspector Vérot expresses both urgency and distress about an imminent threat related to a recent murder. Despite his attempts to convey critical information, Vérot is found to be in a fragile state, and soon after, he succumbs to a mysterious condition that suggests foul play has occurred. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes apparent that two heirs, linked to a substantial fortune, are in peril, and the opening brilliantly sets the stage for a gripping concatenation of intrigue, hidden motives, and the pursuit of justice amidst the shadowy dealings of those who will stop at nothing to secure their interests.
Brood of the Witch-Queen
Sax Rohmer
Brood of the Witch-Queen
"Brood of the Witch-Queen" by Sax Rohmer is a supernatural horror novel published in 1918. When Sir Michael Ferrara dies under mysterious circumstances, Robert Cairn suspects his adopted son Antony Ferrara of wielding dark Egyptian magic. A terrifying investigation unfolds involving human prey, ancient pyramids, and the legendary Book of Thoth. H.P. Lovecraft compared the novel to Bram Stoker's "Dracula," while critics praised Rohmer's occult lore and claustrophobic pyramid scenes as perhaps his finest work.
The Hand of Fu-Manchu Being a New Phase in the Activities of Fu-Manchu, the Devil Doctor
Sax Rohmer
The Hand of Fu-Manchu Being a New Phase in the Activities of Fu-Manchu, the Devil Doctor
"The Hand of Fu-Manchu" by Sax Rohmer is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story features the notorious villain Dr. Fu-Manchu, with the narrative unfolding through the perspectives of Nayland Smith and his companion Dr. Petrie as they confront the menacing machinations of a mysterious organization known as the Si-Fan. The book is steeped in elements of suspense, adventure, and intrigue as the protagonists seek to uncover the truth behind various threats posed by this shadowy group. The opening of the novel immerses readers in a tense atmosphere, introducing Dr. Petrie, who is recuperating at the New Louvre Hotel in London after a return from Cairo. Strange sounds in the fog-laden corridor prompt his unease, foreshadowing the ominous events to come. His friend, Nayland Smith, soon arrives with alarming news about the resurgence of threats linked to Fu-Manchu's secretive organization, the Si-Fan. As they discuss the disturbing situation surrounding another character named Sir Gregory Hale, whom they find in a state of disarray, hints of deeper conspiracies begin to surface. The stage is set for a gripping confrontation with a villainous legacy that threatens to unravel the very fabric of tranquility in their lives.
The Green Eyes of Bâst
Sax Rohmer
The Green Eyes of Bâst
"The Green Eyes of Bâst" by Sax Rohmer is a gripping mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a series of strange events that unfold in London, beginning with the protagonist's eerie encounter with mysterious eyes at night, which sets the tone for the dark, suspenseful narrative. Key characters include a freelance journalist grappling with his past, the enigmatic Isobel Merlin, and law enforcement figures investigating a chilling murder. At the start of the book, we are introduced to the narrator, who enjoys a secluded life away from the city's hustle and bustle. His peaceful existence is disrupted when he becomes embroiled in a bizarre series of occurrences after witnessing a strange pair of green cat-like eyes outside his window. As he contemplates the unusual sights and noises of the night, a sense of dread envelops him. The subsequent chapter reveals a murder mystery involving the recently deceased Sir Marcus Coverly, whose body is found in a crate at the docks. The plot thickens as the narrator discovers troubling connections to Isobel, the woman he once loved, unraveling a tale of jealousy, intrigue, and the supernatural linked to ancient Egyptian deities.
The Golden Scorpion
Sax Rohmer
The Golden Scorpion
"The Golden Scorpion" by Sax Rohmer is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of a mysterious and menacing London, the story begins with Dr. Keppel Stuart, whose quiet life as a suburban physician is disrupted by strange occurrences, including an unsettling encounter with a ghostly figure in a cowl. The novel seems to delve into themes of supernatural elements, hidden dangers, and the intersection of Eastern mystique with Western intrigue, particularly through characters like the enigmatic Mademoiselle Dorian. The opening portion of the narrative introduces Dr. Stuart as he experiences a jumpy awakening in the middle of the night, haunted by a sense of unease and the presence of an unknown menace. Following his unsettling interactions, including a visit from a mysterious woman, the plot gradually reveals connections to a string of deaths linked to "The Scorpion." The chapter sets up a promising blend of suspense, supernatural elements, and character introspection as Stuart finds himself drawn into a dark mystery that intertwines his fate with that of the alluring Dorian and a potential threat from a shadowy figure.
Der Fall Deruga
Ricarda Huch
Der Fall Deruga
"Der Fall Deruga" by Ricarda Huch is a novel published in 1917. When Dr. Sigismondo Deruga's ex-wife dies, he faces murder charges after traces of poison are found in her body. The physician refuses to explain his whereabouts during the death, even as evidence mounts against him. This early courtroom drama follows a tense trial where the defendant's strange behavior and mysterious silence leave everyone wondering: Did he kill her, and if so, why won't he defend himself?
No Hero
E. W. (Ernest William) Hornung
No Hero
"No Hero" by E.W. Hornung is a novel written in the early 20th century, likely around the turn of the century. It explores themes of duty, relationships, and the complexities of personal history. The story centers around Duncan Clephane, a man returning from war, who unexpectedly reconnects with Catherine Evers, an old acquaintance, and her son Bob. The narrative unfolds as Duncan becomes embroiled in a web of emotions that span from love to duty as he navigates their lives and the potential complications that arise from Bob's growing infatuation with a mysterious widow, Mrs. Lascelles. The opening of "No Hero" sets the stage for a tale intertwined with past relationships and unspoken tensions. It begins with Duncan receiving a letter from Catherine, prompting memories and reflections on their shared history. As he prepares to visit her, he confronts his physical limitations from war injuries while reminiscing about the past. Upon arrival, Duncan finds Catherine unchanged yet different, concerned about her son Bob's attachment to Mrs. Lascelles, a woman whose reputation causes unease. This initial interaction establishes a sense of duty within Duncan to protect Bob, setting up for a deeper exploration of relationships against the backdrop of societal expectations and personal sacrifice. The complexity of these connections hints at the challenges Duncan will face as he seeks to steer Bob away from potential heartbreak, revealing the layered intricacies of love and friendship.