The Great Court Scandal
Jul 2023 · Otbebookpublishing
Ebook
181
Pages
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About this ebook
"The Great Court Scandal" (1907) is a novel by Anglo-French writer William Le Queux. Published at the beginning of Le Queux's career as a leading author of popular thrillers, The Great Court Scandal is a story of international espionage, intrigue, and forbidden romance. Using his own research and experience as a journalist and adventurer, Le Queux crafts an accessible, entertaining tale for readers in search of a literary escape. Known for his works of fiction and nonfiction on the possibility of Germany invading Britain-a paranoia common in the early twentieth century-William Le Queux also wrote dozens of thrillers and adventure novels for a dedicated public audience. Although critical acclaim eluded him, popular success made him one of England's bestselling writers. In The Great Court Scandal, two British conmen wait in their upscale Paris hotel room for their ringleader to return. Guy-a high born man brought low through carelessness and misfortune-and Harry-a working class man gifted with wit and ambition-have had an unsuccessful time in the city, and are growing desperate to escape before the authorities catch up with them. Passing the time with mindless ribaldry and memories of danger and adventure, Guy and Harry are entirely unprepared for what comes next. When Roddy arrives with a stolen suitcase, he opens it to discover a parcel of letters belonging to the Crown Princess of Austria, whose scandalous secrets-however well hidden-will threaten her reign and her life. "The Great Court Scandal" is a throwback to the simpler days of entertainment, a bestseller that holds up over a century after it appeared in print.
About the author
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.
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