Mademoiselle of Monte Carlo

William Le Queux

2023年7月 · Otbebookpublishing

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In Mademoiselle of Monte Carlo, Hugh Henfrey travels to Monte Carlo following the mysterious death of his father. In search of answers, he tracks down Mademoiselle Yvonne Ferad, a legendary gambler who frequents the tables of Europe's casino capital. Having received a tip that Ferad knows something about his father, Henfrey finds and interrogates her. But at the moment the truth is to be revealed, an assassin appears and guns Ferad down, mortally wounding her. Henfrey is made the primary suspect, forcing him to flee the police by joining a network of criminals under the wing of the Sparrow, a gentleman ringleader and veritable mastermind who conspires to transport the young Englishman out of Monaco. As he moves through the shadows from Italy to Belgium and England, Henfrey begins to suspect that the secret of his father's death has been right before his eyes the whole time.

作者简介

William Le Queux (1864-1927) was a British author, journalist, and adventurer whose prolific output and sensational storytelling left an indelible mark on early 20th-century literature. Born in London to a French father and an English mother, Le Queux's cosmopolitan upbringing and insatiable curiosity fueled his writing career. His works often blurred the lines between fiction and reality, captivating readers with tales of espionage, international intrigue, and looming threats of war.Le Queux's most notable contribution to literature is his pioneering role in the spy novel genre. His vivid imagination and knack for weaving intricate plots predated and influenced the likes of John Buchan and Ian Fleming. His works, such as "The Great War in England in 1897" and "The Invasion of 1910," played on contemporary fears of foreign invasion, reflecting and shaping public sentiment during a time of geopolitical tension.A master of self-promotion, Le Queux often claimed to have inside knowledge of government secrets and espionage activities, a tactic that both intrigued and alarmed his readers. His controversial assertions and the sensational nature of his writing sometimes drew skepticism and criticism, but they also ensured his lasting popularity.Le Queux was not just a writer of fiction; he was also a fervent patriot and an early advocate for national preparedness. His works often carried a didactic tone, urging vigilance and readiness in the face of potential threats. This blend of entertainment and advocacy made his novels more than just thrilling reads; they were calls to action that resonated with a generation on the brink of global conflict.In an era where the boundaries between fact and fiction were increasingly porous, William Le Queux stood out as a figure who deftly navigated both realms, leaving a legacy that continues to influence the spy genre and the way we think about national security.