"La police secrète prussienne" by Victor Tissot is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book aims to uncover the hidden workings of the Prussian secret police, detailing the methods and moral implications of its espionage tactics during a time of social upheaval and revolution. The narrative is set against the backdrop of Berlin's turbulent revolutionary atmosphere of the mid-19th century, introducing characters engaged in the fight for freedom and the complex interplay of loyalty and betrayal. At the start of the book, the scene is set in Berlin shortly after the February Revolution, with a chaotic crowd clamoring for change while King Friedrich Wilhelm IV appears before them. The story introduces two characters, Schœffel and Goldschmidt, who engage in a tense discussion about the imminent appearance of the king in a politically charged atmosphere. As tensions rise, Schœffel, an ex-prisoner recently released from custody, visibly reacts to the presence of a man identified as Stieber, an agent who he believes betrayed him. The narrative quickly establishes a sense of urgency and conflict, introducing themes of personal loss, political intrigue, and the morally ambiguous role of the secret police amidst social upheaval. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Club of Masks" by Allen Upward is a detective novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around an intriguing murder mystery set in London's underground social scene, particularly focusing on a secretive club known as the Domino Club. Central to the narrative is Dr. Cassilis, the assistant to the esteemed poison specialist Sir Frank Tarleton. As they navigate the web of deception and danger following the death of a masked dancer, the characters grapple with their secrets and the hidden lives of those connected to the club. The opening of the book introduces Dr. Cassilis, who finds himself in a precarious position after attending a masked dance at the Domino Club, where one of the dancers has been discovered dead, allegedly poisoned. As he anxiously attempts to conceal his late-night escapades from his chief, Sir Frank Tarleton, Dr. Cassilis receives a call from Inspector Charles of Scotland Yard summoning them to investigate the peculiar death. The narrative then unfolds through the lens of Cassilis’s experiences as he races against time to uncover the truth behind the murder, which is shrouded in mystery and hints of high-stakes intrigue involving royalty and clandestine affairs at the club. As the investigation deepens, the complex dynamics among the characters become more apparent, setting the stage for an enthralling journey through a world of masks and hidden motives. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Three Just Men" by Edgar Wallace is a crime fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the exploits of a clandestine group of vigilantes known as the Three Just Men, who take it upon themselves to exact justice where the law fails. Central to the plot is Mirabelle Leicester, a young woman who becomes unknowingly entwined in their dangerous world after she seeks employment in London. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Mirabelle Leicester, who discovers a job advertisement that sets her on a path to the big city. Her aunt, Alma, expresses concern for Mirabelle’s safety as they discuss the notorious reputation of the Four Just Men, a group that presumably inspired fear across London. Meanwhile, a series of mysterious deaths attributed to a venomous escaped snake complicates the atmosphere of dread in the city. As Mirabelle secures the job with the enigmatic Dr. Oberzohn, it becomes evident that her life is about to collide dramatically with the unfolding events involving the Just Men and their controversial methods of dispensing justice. The opening engages readers with intrigue, suggesting a mix of suspense, danger, and moral ambiguity that sets the tone for Mirabelle's forthcoming adventure. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Fellowship of the Frog" by Edgar Wallace is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The book centers around the enigmatic and sinister organization known as the Frogs, whose activities elicit public fear and intrigue, particularly in relation to a hardware merchant named James G. Bliss. The story unfolds in an atmosphere of suspense and tension as various characters navigate the complexities and perils associated with this secretive group. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Bliss, who suffers a violent attack, uttering the word "frog" before slipping into unconsciousness. As the narrative progresses, we learn about the Frogs—a collective characterized by lawlessness and a foreboding presence in society. The first chapter opens with Richard "Dick" Gordon, who has a chance encounter with a young woman named Ella Bennett at Maytree Cottage. Their meeting, centered around a broken-down car and the fetching of water, suggests a burgeoning connection between them. However, the atmosphere quickly shifts from charming to ominous, as Gordon’s ties to the justice system plunge him into a world fraught with danger from the Frogs and their violent actions, setting the stage for the unfolding mystery and intrigue. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Avenger" by Edgar Wallace is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Captain Mike Brixan, an intelligence officer who is reluctantly drawn into a murder investigation involving a series of grisly decapitations attributed to a notorious figure known as the Head-Hunter. His quest for answers leads him to intrigue, suspense, and a cast of eccentric characters in the world of film production. The opening portion of the novel introduces Captain Brixan as he is summoned back from an important assignment in Berlin to investigate a murder case related to a missing clerk named Francis Elmer, whose head has been discovered by police. As Brixan engages with his superiors at the Foreign Office, he learns more about the gruesome nature of the crime and the unusual circumstances surrounding Elmer's disappearance. The chapter sets a tone of tension and foreshadowing, hinting at a deeper mystery as Brixan encounters various characters, including a film actress named Adele Leamington and the curious figure of Sir Gregory Penne. As he navigates the complexities of the case, it becomes apparent that nothing is as it seems, and the danger is far more ominous than he initially anticipated. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Long Patrol" by Albert M. Treynor is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows Corporal David Dexter of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police as he embarks on a perilous journey into the wilderness, uncovering secrets of crime and deception after the murder of a fellow policeman. Dexter's search for justice leads him to a web of intrigue involving a mysterious woman and a fugitive criminal. At the start of the story, Dexter discovers the lifeless body of a comrade, Constable Tommy Graves, who has been shot in an ambush. The atmosphere is tense as he realizes he may be hot on the trail of the killer. As he investigates, he encounters signs of disturbance and follows tracks that eventually lead to a secluded cabin, where further violence has occurred. The plot thickens with the unexpected appearance of a woman, Alison Rayne, who claims no knowledge of the crimes and flees into the night. The opening sets the stage for a tale filled with suspense, moral dilemmas, and the rugged backdrop of the Canadian wilderness, compelling readers to delve deeper into the unfolding drama. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Rabok" by Ferenc Molnár is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book centers around the complex lives of individuals in a setting that hints at themes of confinement and relationships, primarily focusing on a young girl named Lenke as she navigates her connection to a prison through her father’s position and her interactions with various characters, including the mysterious Riza. The opening of "Rabok" introduces us to a snowy scene at a train station where a carriage awaits, carrying a group of characters that includes the young Lenke and an elderly woman. As they travel towards an ambiguous destination, their discussion reveals a mix of excitement and melancholy regarding the winter landscape and the impending reunion with Lenke's father, who is a prison warden. Initial impressions of the setting, particularly the somber atmosphere surrounding the prison, are contrasted with the innocence and curiosity of Lenke, who seems to crave the beauty of nature rather than the confinement associated with the prison. The narrative establishes a poignant contrast between hope and despair, setting the stage for Lenke's journey in this emotionally charged environment. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Lord Lister No. 0461: De moord op John Cormick" by Matull, Blankensee, and Hageman is a thrilling detective novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the notorious murder of a wealthy industrialist, John Cormick, who is found dead in Central Park, leading to a resurgence of fear associated with a criminal gang known as "Het Kwade Oog." The main character, Lord Edward Lister, also known as John Raffles, aims to prove a wealthy man's claims of being inabrakvrij (burglary-proof) by engaging in a daring investigation. The opening of the novel introduces a gripping murder mystery that unsettles the affluent residents of New York. When John Cormick is discovered murdered with a threatening note from a criminal gang, the alarm is raised about the potential threat posed by the gang's reemergence. The narrative shifts to Raffles, who, intrigued by Cormick's audacious declaration of having an impenetrable home, decides to challenge it. Engaging in strategic discussions with his companion Charly Brand, Raffles plans not only to investigate the circumstances surrounding the murder but also to uncover vulnerabilities within Cormick's heavily fortified mansion, setting the stage for an intricate and suspenseful plot. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"New Nick Carter weekly no. 197: The little glass vial; or A beautiful blackmailer brought to bay" is a crime fiction story attributed to the popular detective character Nick Carter, written during the early 20th century, specifically around the year 1900. This installment is part of a series that showcases the exploits of Carter, a master detective known for his sharp intellect and problem-solving skills. The narrative revolves around themes of blackmail, murder, and the intricacies of human relationships, showcasing the challenges faced when one seeks justice. The story begins with Nick Carter responding to a telegram regarding the suspicious death of Samuel Rogers, believed by his son to be a case of murder rather than natural causes. As Carter investigates, he uncovers a network of deceit involving a beautiful woman named Anita Alvarez, who is entangled in a scheme to blackmail the Rogers family, particularly through leveraging her marriage to the son, Sam. The plot thickens as Carter discovers hypodermic syringes and toxic substances that suggest foul play. Through clever deduction, he ultimately reveals that Mr. Rogers died from natural causes, but the machinations of Alvarez and her associates sought to orchestrate a blackmail scheme against the grieving family. In a thrilling climax, Carter brings the criminals to justice, ensuring the safety and future of the Rogers family. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Lord Lister No. 0019: De erfenis van Eaglestone" by Matull and Blankensee is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows the enigmatic character Lord Edward Lister and his companion Charly Brand as they navigate a tale filled with suspense, involving themes of betrayal, identity, and justice. At its heart is Harry Danby, the rightful heir to Eaglestone, whose life has been upended by deceit and misfortune. The opening of the book starts in Battersea Park, London, where two friends, Edward and Charly, encounter a man attempting to take his own life. They manage to save him, and through their conversation learn that he is Harry Leyden, who reveals his true identity as Harry Danby, the Count of Eaglestone. He recounts his troubled past and the manipulative actions of his stepmother, Lady Ethel, who took away his rightful inheritance. As the story unfolds, Lord Lister vows to help Danby reclaim his heritage and confront Lady Ethel, setting the stage for a riveting exploration of unresolved family conflict and the quest for redemption. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Case of Oscar Slater" by Arthur Conan Doyle is a detailed examination of a controversial murder case written in the early 20th century. This non-fiction work critiques the Scottish legal system and explores the conviction of Oscar Slater, a Jewish immigrant who was sentenced to death in 1909 for the brutal murder of an elderly woman, Miss Marion Gilchrist. The book serves as both a plea for justice and a discussion about the flaws and biases within the investigation and trial that led to Slater’s conviction. In this case, the narrative unfolds with the murder of Miss Gilchrist in her Glasgow flat, providing a chilling account of the circumstances surrounding her death. Slater, who appeared vaguely similar to the description given by witnesses, became the primary suspect shortly after it was reported that a brooch went missing from the victim's collection. However, Doyle presents compelling arguments against Slater’s guilt, highlighting inconsistencies and flaws in witness identifications, the absence of incriminating evidence, and the prejudices faced by Slater as a foreigner. Through detailed analysis of the trial proceedings and the mounting evidence that suggests others may have had both means and motive, Doyle challenges readers to reconsider the integrity of the conviction, ultimately advocating for Slater’s innocence and a need for a fair judicial process. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Case-Book of Sherlock Holmes" by Arthur Conan Doyle is a collection of detective stories written in the late 19th century. This volume is a continuation of the adventures of the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal companion Dr. John Watson as they tackle their final cases together. Each story presents a unique mystery that showcases Holmes's astute observations and deductions. At the start of "The Adventure of the Illustrious Client," the narrative unfolds with Holmes and Watson lounging in a Turkish bath, where they receive a message from Sir James Damery requesting Holmes's assistance regarding a delicate case. The plot thickens as they learn about Baron Adelbert Gruner, a man with a dubious past who is about to marry the innocent Violet de Merville. Sir James is concerned for her safety, fearing that Gruner's dangerous nature—and past crimes—might harm her. The opening sets the stage for intrigue and suspense, hinting at the clever maneuvers required to save Violet from a potential catastrophe, while also reintroducing themes of morality and justice that are prevalent throughout Holmes's adventures. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Lord Lister No. 0018: Het geheim van de verminkte kinderen" by Matull and Blankensee is a fictional novel set in a mysterious and suspenseful atmosphere, likely written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Lord Lister, also known as John Raffles, an elusive gentleman-thief who is drawn into a dark investigation involving the wealthy Mr. Pigott and his questionable activities regarding mutilated children. The book promises an intriguing mix of crime, mystery, and adventure as Raffles seeks to unravel a sinister secret. At the start of the narrative, we find Lord Lister in his lavish London home, discussing the curious wealth of a man named Pigott with his friend Charly Brand. Lister's curiosity drives him to investigate Pigott further, leading to a failed burglary attempt that quickly escalates into a dangerous situation. In the midst of the chaos, Brand overhears shocking sounds indicative of child suffering coming from Pigott's residence. As Raffles continues his inquiry, he secretly dons disguises and employs clever tactics, motivated by both a sense of justice and the apprehension of confronting unthinkable crimes. This opening sets the tone for a gripping tale of intrigue and moral conflict intertwined with the pursuit for truth. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Lord Lister No. 0017: De gestrafte Don Juan" by Kurt Matull and Theo von Blankensee is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the enigmatic character Lord Rochester, a wealthy aristocrat entangled in a web of deceit, seduction, and moral downfall, particularly in his interactions with the beautiful but troubled shopgirl, Mary Green. The narrative explores themes of virtue, crime, and the stark contrasts between appearance and reality in society, focusing on characters who grapple with their desires and ethical choices. The opening of the novel introduces a scene in the bustling streets of London, where a young girl, Mary Green, is harassed by a lecherous man. Just as she cries out for help, an old man comes to her aid, revealing himself to be a nobleman, Lord Edward Rochester, who is secretly involved in charitable work while simultaneously indulging in immoral acts. Following this encounter, the plot thickens as Rochester receives a threatening letter from the notorious thief John C. Raffles, informing him of a planned robbery. This blend of intrigue sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Lord Rochester’s character and the unfolding drama involving love, betrayal, and the consequences of one's actions. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Lord Lister No. 0382: De agent van Lenin" by Matull, Blankensee, and Hageman is a fictional narrative likely written in the 20th century. The story revolves around the character of Count Stanislaw Stijkof, a Russian nobleman who, having narrowly escaped the grip of the Bolsheviks, arrives in London, where journalists eagerly seek his story. However, beneath his aristocratic facade lies a deeper intrigue, as elements of espionage and revolution hint at connections to Lenin and the Bolshevik agenda. The opening of the story introduces Count Stijkof as he checks into the prestigious Hotel Cecil, causing a stir among reporters who sense a compelling story. Despite his desire for privacy, the persistent journalists manage to arrange an interview with him. As the narrative unfolds, a French correspondent named André Devinard slyly introduces himself, claiming journalistic curiosity while keeping an eye on the count. The tension mounts as the count recounts his harrowing escape from Russia, drawing the attention of the other journalists. Simultaneously, the narrative hints at a double identity for the count, suggesting he may not be who he claims to be, setting the stage for an unfolding drama filled with political espionage and secretive motives. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Lord Lister No. 0381: De Misdaad in Sutherland Avenue" by Kurt Matull et al. is a fictional detective novel set in a period likely resembling the early 20th century. The story revolves around Lord Edward Lister, also known as Raffles, a gentleman thief who engages in a nighttime heist but becomes embroiled in a murder mystery when he discovers the body of a banker during his exploits. Accompanied by his friend Charly Brand, Raffles seeks to unravel the truth behind the crime while navigating the intricacies of British high society. The opening of the novel introduces us to the titular character Raffles as he and Charly stealthily navigate the dark streets of London after arriving by train. Their initial plan to rob a house quickly shifts when they encounter a scene of disturbance — three men hastily fleeing the premises. As Raffles assesses the situation, he finds the lifeless body of John Harris, the banker's husband, in a home office, evidently murdered. The atmosphere thickens as the young widow, Edith Harris, enters the narrative, portraying shock and denial upon Raffles’s revelations about the tragic events. This sets the stage for Raffles's determination to investigate both the robbery and the murder, raising questions regarding Edith's involvement and the true nature of the events that unfolded in Sutherland Avenue. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Surprise House" by Abbie Farwell Brown is a children’s novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the Corliss family, who inherit an old house from their eccentric Great-Aunt Nan Corliss. Upon exploring their new home in Crowfield, they discover an array of peculiar curiosities and hidden surprises that reflect Aunt Nan's whimsical personality, suggesting that the house itself is full of secrets waiting to be uncovered. The opening of "Surprise House" introduces the Corliss family as they arrive at the old, charming home that has been neglected and abandoned since Aunt Nan's passing. Dr. Corliss, his wife, and their two children, Mary and John, explore the house and encounter various oddities, hinting at Aunt Nan's penchant for mischief. The family begins to piece together Aunt Nan's legacy, encountering practical jokes and unexpected discoveries, like a library specifically designated for Mary. The stage is set for a story filled with mystery, humor, and the family’s growing fondness for their quirky relatives and old home, inviting readers to share in their adventures and the surprises that lie ahead. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Ocean Wireless Boys of the Iceberg Patrol" by Captain Wilbur Lawton is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows young Jack Ready, a wireless operator aboard the freighter "Cambodian", as he navigates the dangers of the Atlantic Ocean, particularly the threat posed by icebergs. Alongside his friend Billy Raynor, Jack grapples with the challenges of his profession while facing adversity from a reckless captain and the unpredictability of the sea. At the start of the novel, Jack is adjusting to his role in the wireless room of the "Cambodian", where he is optimistic despite being passed over for a position on a larger liner. He and Raynor discuss the dangers ahead as they receive iceberg reports from other ships, signaling an acute sense of tension as the temperature drops and conditions worsen. Shortly after, Jack realizes that Captain Briggs, who is under the influence of alcohol, is steering the ship recklessly toward icebergs. This alarming situation culminates when Billy Raynor falls overboard after an encounter with an iceberg, prompting Jack's desperate efforts to alert the crew and seek his friend's rescue, setting the stage for a series of dramatic events that unfold in the novel. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Lord Lister No. 0378: De Aanslag op de Londensche Beurs" by Kurt Matull et al. is a fictional novel written during the late 19th century. The book focuses on Lord Lister, also known as Raffles, and follows his adventures that revolve around a conspiracy potentially threatening the London Stock Exchange, highlighting themes of intrigue and danger in the financial world. The opening of the novel sets the scene in London, particularly around the Stock Exchange and the offices of two bankers, Rosenthal and Pennock. It introduces the high-stakes environment where bankers bustle about, and the reader learns about the establishment of the Midland Credit Bank, co-owned by Rosenthal, a creator of financial success, and Pennock, who possesses incredible insight into human nature. As various characters are introduced, including Lord Aberdeen and his secretary, Charly Brand, a sense of foreboding emerges, suggesting that the seemingly mundane world of banking is on the brink of a significant crisis, potentially linked to a sinister external plot. The narrative hints at personal entanglements and moral dilemmas, particularly surrounding the character of Sonja Paviac, a typist with mysterious ties to Russian intrigues, foreshadowing the complex intertwining of love and danger. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Lord Lister No. 0377: De Heuvel van den Dooden Man" by Kurt Matull et al. is a novel likely written in the early 21st century. The story revolves around two protagonists, John Raffles and his younger companion Charly Brand, as they embark on an adventure through a post-war landscape in northern France, particularly the site of the significant battlefields from World War I. The novel blends elements of mystery and historical narrative, exploring themes of loss, memory, and the haunting remnants of war. The opening of the book introduces the reader to a large red tourist bus traveling through a primarily devastated region, reminiscent of the fierce battles fought during the war. Raffles and Charly are depicted as they abandon the bus tour to explore on foot, seeking a deeper connection to the historical significance of the land. They encounter troubling sights that reflect the traumatic past, including ruins of homes and remnants of war. Their journey leads them to a peculiar woman engaged in frantic digging, suggesting a tragic backstory intertwined with the landscape they traverse. As they investigate, the narrative hints at a complex mystery involving the woman, her possible insanity, and the profound impacts of the war both on individuals and the land itself. (This is an automatically generated summary.)