"The Templeton Case" by Victor L. Whitechurch is a detective novel written in the early 20th century. The story opens in the quaint seaside village of Marsh Quay, where the characters and setting lay the foundation for a mystery involving murder, intrigue, and clues that weave together the lives of various individuals, particularly revolving around the enigmatic Reginald Templeton. Readers can expect to delve into a web of relationships and secrets as Detective-Sergeant Colson pursues the truth behind the crime. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Tom Gale, a laid-back crewman of a small schooner, and the arrival of Reginald Templeton on a yacht. Templeton's engagement in boating and a mysterious visit across the estuary hint at deeper connections and potential motives. As Templeton's fate takes a grim turn with his murder discovered soon after by his crew member, Jim Webb, the tension escalates. Characters like Mrs. Yates, the landlady of the "Mariner’s Arms," and Mr. Proctor, a local gentleman, become entwined in the unfolding investigation. The narrative expertly sets the stage for a classic whodunit, promising misdirection and evolving clues as Detective-Sergeant Colson works diligently to untangle the mystery surrounding Templeton's death. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Treasure on the Beach" by Julian Street and Frank Finney is a light-hearted adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the hunt for hidden treasure, sparked by the late Uncle Abner's eccentric letter and treasure map. Set against the backdrop of Florida's sandy shores, this narrative explores themes of family, adventure, and unexpected romance. The plot follows Allen Spencer, who, upon receiving a letter from his great uncle Abner, decides to travel to Lone Palm Key to seek buried treasure. He soon discovers he has competition in the form of a distant relative, Graham Stewart. Their journeys lead them to work together in a series of comedic and romantic interactions as they dig for treasure, only to find it's more of a ruse than a reality. Their search takes unexpected turns, and through shared challenges, romantic sparks fly between the duo. The entertaining mix of treasure hunting and budding romance presents readers with a charming tale about unexpected connections and the true meaning of treasure. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Astounding Crime on Torrington Road" by William Gillette is a narrative likely written in the early 20th century. This intriguing account appears to delve into a gripping criminal case, centering around characters involved in a complex plot, including a staff reporter, Horace McClintock, and potential suspects like Hugo Pentecost and Stephen W. Harker. The story seems to promise a blend of investigation and drama, inviting readers into a world of audacity and deception. The opening of the narrative introduces us to Horace McClintock, a New York reporter who is dispatched to Boston, where he coincidentally meets Andrew H. Barnes, a man connected to a mysterious case involving a young man named Jamie Dreek. As McClintock narrates his earlier experiences trailing Dreek during a train ride, we learn about ominous events tied to the houses located on Torrington Road. Barnes, meanwhile, has been observing this case for two years, compellingly hinting at its intricate nature as he seeks a reporter to help transcribe his findings about the strange occurrences linked to the Haworth family and a historic mansion. The tension mounts as McClintock weighs the ethical implications of involving himself in this sensational account. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Black Abbot" by Edgar Wallace is a mystery novel written in the late 1920s. Set in an English estate, the story opens with the Earl of Chelford, who is embroiled in a discussion surrounding the myth of the Black Abbot, a ghost said to haunt Fossaway Manor. As the plot unfolds, themes of family secrets, treasure hunting, and romance intertwine, particularly involving Harry Alford and his brother Dick, along with the enigmatic figure of Leslie Gwyn. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Lord Chelford and his footman Thomas as they discuss the sending of treasury notes, along with the eerie legend of the Black Abbot, which visibly agitates Chelford. He sternly warns Thomas against discussing the ghost and reveals his own fears, indicating that there might be more than just superstition at play. Meanwhile, the presence of the disgruntled former secretary, Miss Wenner, introduces a layer of romantic tension and intrigue, especially concerning the Earl’s upcoming marriage and the potential for hidden treasures within the manor's lore. The beginning deftly sets up a blend of mystery, personal drama, and supernatural elements that will surely engage readers intrigued by tales of haunted estates and the complexities of familial relationships. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Feathers Left Around" by Carolyn Wells is a collection of detective stories written in the early 20th century. The stories follow Fleming Stone, a clever American detective known for his ingenuity and skill in unraveling mysteries, as he encounters various baffling cases. This work promises to engage readers with intriguing plots that challenge the intellect, inviting them into a world of suspense and deduction. The opening of the book introduces readers to the character of Valentine Loft and his guests enjoying a weekend at his Westchester estate, where a lively discussion about methods of murder ensues. The light-hearted conversation takes a dark turn when Loft's guest, the author Hugh Curran, is found dead in his locked room under mysterious circumstances. As Loft grapples with the shocking discovery, the tension among the assembled guests rises, leading to a mix of curiosity and dread. This intriguing start hints at a complex interplay of motives and suspects, setting the stage for a compelling murder mystery. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"In the Night" by R. Gorell Barnes is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds against the backdrop of a quaint English village, bringing into focus the tragic murder of Sir Roger Penterton, a figure cloaked in unpopularity and abruptness. The plot engages a cast of characters including Inspector Humblethorne, who is tasked with unraveling the circumstances surrounding the crime, and Philip Castle, the disturbed secretary whose complex relationship with his employer becomes pivotal to the investigation. At the start of the novel, the setting is established in the quiet village near Salting Towers, where the unexpected murder sets the stage for intrigue and suspicion. The narrative introduces Inspector Humblethorne as he begins his holiday only to be drawn into the investigation of Sir Roger's violent death. Another central character, Philip Castle, is revealed to have had a contentious relationship with Sir Roger, hinting at underlying tensions that may provide motive for the crime. As villagers react to the shocking news, the opening builds suspense and lays the groundwork for the detective story to unfold, inviting readers to delve into the relationships and mysteries that will be explored throughout the unfolding tale. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Dark Eyes of London" by Edgar Wallace is a mystery novel written in the late 1920s. The story centers around Inspector Larry Holt, who is drawn into a complex investigation linked to a series of murders and the leaking of secrets. The sinister backdrop includes a gang known as the "blind giants" and features characters like Flash Fred, a gambler with dubious connections, and hints of a woman who could play a critical role in the unfolding mystery. The opening of the novel sets the stage for a thrilling tale, as Inspector Larry Holt finds himself in Paris, enjoying a reprieve from his duties when he receives urgent news about the suspicious drowning of a wealthy Canadian named Gordon Stuart. As Holt prepares to return to London, he encounters the enigmatic Flash Fred, who has his own entanglements with the law. After arriving back in London, Holt begins to delve into the case, learning about Stuart's mysterious past and connections to a small village, while also forming a partnership with a competent secretary, Diana Ward. The story quickly escalates into a web of intrigue, highlighting unseen dangers and the pursuit of truth in a murky underworld rife with danger and betrayal. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Footprints" by Kay Cleaver Strahan is a novel written in the late 1920s. The story revolves around Judith Quilter Whitefield, a widow and member of a prominent family in Oregon, who struggles with family secrets and past traumas as she navigates her relationships. The novel begins with Judith’s arrival at a hotel, where she is introduced to the dynamics of upper-class society, revealing her past and the enigmatic troubles surrounding her family. The opening of the novel introduces readers to Judith as she ventures through the hotel lobby and prepares to meet her brother, Neal Quilter. This initial glimpse establishes a complex familial backdrop, with hints of past tragedies, particularly the unresolved murder of Judith and Neal’s father, Richard Quilter. Neal's psychological struggles surface early on, leading to a gripping dialogue where he confesses to feeling guilty over their father's death. Their interactions blend elements of intrigue and emotional depth, indicating that the narrative will tackle themes of guilt, family loyalty, and the burden of past actions. The stage is set for a story that interweaves mystery and introspection as Judith seeks to understand her family's legacy while grappling with Neal's troubling revelations. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Assassination Bureau, Ltd." by Jack London and Robert L. Fish is a novel written in the mid-20th century. The book presents a unique blend of adventure and philosophical exploration through the lens of an assassination organization. The main character, Ivan Dragomiloff, leads this Bureau, providing assassination services that are surprisingly regulated by ethical standards, challenging traditional notions of justice and morality. At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to Dragomiloff's office, where he conducts business related to his Bureau. The scene unfolds with a nervous client, Hausmann, who seeks the assassination of Chief McDuffy, highlighting the tension between anarchist motivations and the operations of the Bureau. As the dialogue reveals the organization’s process and moral justifications for their work, the complexity of Dragomiloff’s character begins to emerge. He is both a defender of justice and the executor of death, setting the stage for deeper ethical discussions as the story progresses. The opening sets a compelling tone, making readers curious about how Dragomiloff will navigate the repercussions of his profession and personal beliefs. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Achievements of Luther Trant" by Edwin Balmer and William MacHarg is a detective novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows the character of Luther Trant, a young psychologist and aspiring detective, as he employs advanced psychological methods to solve crimes, highlighting the intersection of science and investigation. The narrative focuses on Trant's efforts to clear an innocent man's name following a suspicious death that suggests suicide and financial misdeeds. At the start of the story, Trant, alongside Professor Reiland, discusses the inadequacies of traditional criminal investigation methods, expressing his belief that psychological principles can lead to faster resolutions of criminal cases. This leads to the urgent discovery of Dr. Lawrie’s lifeless body in his office, raising questions about the cause of death and the implication of suicide due to financial ruin. Trant’s determination to prove Lawrie's innocence and uncover the truth drives the narrative, as he navigates a web of suspicion involving university associates, deftly using his knowledge of psychological tests to reveal deeper truths. The opening sets the stage for a thrilling exploration of human behavior and the complexities of justice. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Murder by the Clock" by Rufus King is a detective novel written in the late 1920s. The story centers around Mrs. Endicott, who fears for her husband Herbert's safety and calls upon the police for assistance, leading to the discovery of a dead body in his room. As the narrative unfolds, Detective Lieutenant Valcour investigates the circumstances surrounding the murder, including the strained relationships and hidden secrets that could provide motives for the crime. At the start of the story, Mrs. Endicott is consumed with anxiety over her husband, whom she suspects is in danger due to his involvement with a mysterious woman named Marge Myles. As she expresses her concerns to Lieutenant Valcour, tension builds when his investigation reveals various clues, including a threatening note and evidence of a struggle. The chilling discovery of Herbert's body in the cupboard escalates the urgency of Valcour's investigation, leading to intricate examinations of marriage dynamics, potential motives for murder, and the shocking twists that lie ahead as the night unfolds. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Lazy Detective" by George Dilnot is a detective novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Divisional Detective Inspector Harry Labar, whose idleness earns him the reputation of being lazy among his peers at Scotland Yard. He gets embroiled in a complex case involving a high-profile jewel heist linked to the enigmatic crime organizer Larry Hughes, while also navigating the complications of his own lethargy and the pressures from his superiors. At the start of the novel, Inspector Labar faces discontent from his Chief Constable regarding the rising crime rates in his division. Labar's tenuous position is further complicated when he receives an unexpected bribe in the form of a hundred-pound note handed to him by a mysterious woman in a car. As he begins to investigate the recent burglary at the residence of millionaire Solly Gertstein, it becomes evident that he is dealing with skilled criminals. The narrative introduces suspenseful elements, including potential connections to Hughes and his dubious associates, and hints at a deeper personal entanglement involving Labar and Miss Penelope Noelson, Gertstein’s companion, as they all navigate the disconcerting world of crime and deception. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Purple Sickle Murders" by Freeman Wills Crofts is a detective novel written in the late 1920s. The story centers around Inspector Joseph French, a member of Scotland Yard's Criminal Investigation Department, as he investigates the mysterious and brutal murder of a young woman named Thurza Darke. The opening portion hints at themes of crime and deception, highlighting both the investigative process and the psychological complexity of the characters involved. At the start of the narrative, Inspector French is engaged in what seems to be a routine case when he receives a call about a young lady who believes she is in danger. This leads him to meet Thurza Darke, who fears for her life and claims that her friend, Eileen Tucker, had been murdered rather than having committed suicide as reported. As Miss Darke recounts her harrowing experience with a dubious figure named Mr. Style, who bears a scar resembling a purple sickle, the tone shifts from mundane police work to a race against time to solve a potentially dangerous mystery. The opening effectively sets the stage for a gritty exploration of crime and its psychological repercussions, drawing readers into a compelling case of murder and intrigue. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Le spectre de M. Imberger" by Frédéric Boutet is a novel written in the early 20th century. This intriguing tale revolves around the mysterious disappearance of M. Imberger, a wealthy man with a peculiar passion for collecting doorknobs and a seemingly tranquil life. The main characters include Barfin, a seasoned detective eager to unravel the complex case, and the titular M. Imberger along with his beautiful young wife, Andrée, who becomes embroiled in the situation. The opening of the story introduces Barfin as he reflects on his extensive career in the Paris police, marking the complexity of M. Imberger's case as his most perplexing. M. Imberger is portrayed as an eccentric collector deeply in love with his wife, Andrée, while their nephew Maxence stays with them under peculiar circumstances. The narrative sets the stage for a dramatic night when Andrée, after a costume ball, becomes anxious over her husband's prolonged absence. As the clock ticks past their typical routines, her worry evolves into despair, leading her to alert the authorities about his disappearance. The initial mystery grows as Barfin begins his investigation, uncovering layers of familial dynamics and potential motives, while the tale hints at the haunting possibility of supernatural elements intertwined with earthly intrigues. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Poisoned Chocolates Case" by Anthony Berkeley is a mystery novel written in the late 1920s. The story centers around Roger Sheringham, a detective fiction author and president of a crime-themed society called the Crimes Circle. During one of their meetings, he proposes that the Club investigate the mysterious murder of Mrs. Graham Bendix, suggesting that their enthusiasm and intellect could yield results where the police have failed. The opening portion of the book introduces the Crimes Circle and its members, who are captivated by Sheringham's proposal to delve into the murder case. The chapter establishes a vibrant atmosphere filled with intellectual camaraderie, where dedicated detectives and writers gather to share theories without the constraints of traditional police work. As they discuss their ideas, Sheringham reveals that the police have given up hope of solving the case, allowing the Circle to take over and pursue their own investigations, laying the groundwork for a classic whodunit. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Case of Miss Elliott" by Baroness Emmuska Orczy is a detective novel written in the early 20th century. This intriguing tale revolves around the mysterious death of Miss Elliott, a beloved matron at a convalescent home, who is found dead under suspicious circumstances, stirring public and professional interest. The story hints at numerous characters, including a man in the corner who seems to possess insightful knowledge regarding the case, as well as individuals entangled in potential motives and the unfolding drama of the investigation. At the start of the book, the narrative introduces us to a conversation between an inquisitive observer and a knowledgeable figure, referred to as "the man in the corner." He discusses the tragic case of Miss Elliott, whose death is classified as a potential murder or suicide, raising questions about her life, professional struggles at the convalescent home, and the complex relationships she had with her colleagues. As the man shares details about the inquest and the various characters involved — including Dr. Stapylton and Dr. Kinnaird — the reader is led to consider the financial misconduct hinted at within the home and the emotional tensions that may have played a role in Miss Elliott's demise. This opening portion adeptly sets the stage for a complex mystery filled with suspense and intrigue, drawing the reader into a world of secrets and investigations. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Desert Moon Mystery" by Kay Cleaver Strahan is a novel written in the late 1920s. The story revolves around the complex relationships and mysteries surrounding the Desert Moon Ranch, particularly focusing on characters such as Sam Stanley, the ranch owner, and the enigmatic Canneziano twins, Danielle and Gabrielle. As they return to the ranch, the narrative hints at underlying tensions, secrets, and perhaps the shadows of past grievances that will unfold into a gripping tale of intrigue. The opening of the novel introduces us to Mary, the housekeeper, who is already sensing trouble as news arrives of the Canneziano twins' intention to return to the ranch. Mary converses with Sam about their arrival, expressing her skepticism about their motives. The background of Margarita, their mother, and her tumultuous past with Sam, along with hints at family drama involving Dan Canneziano, set the stage for the unfolding mystery and emotional conflicts. Tension is built as both Mary and Sam consider the implications of the twins' return to a place already marked by romance, betrayal, and unresolved emotions. This intertwining of personal histories and the suspense of what is to come creates an engaging atmosphere for the reader. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Tragedy at Ravensthorpe" by J. J. Connington is a detective novel written in the late 1920s. The story introduces Sir Clinton Driffield, the new Chief Constable of Ravensthorpe, who becomes embroiled in a mystery surrounding a masked ball at the estate, where guests don costumes and masks. As the evening unfolds, tensions mount when criminal activities threaten the safety of the attendees and the valuable collections housed within the estate. The opening of the novel sets the stage with Sir Clinton Driffield arriving at Ravensthorpe, where he reconnects with old acquaintances and learns about the peculiar local folklore related to the estate, including the enigmatic Fairy Houses. It quickly becomes clear that beneath the social veneer of the upcoming masked ball lies potential for intrigue and danger; Sir Clinton expresses concern about the anonymity of the masked guests and the possibility of crime. As the characters prepare for the ball, personal tensions emerge between the family members, particularly surrounding inheritance and romantic interests, hinting that underlying motivations and secrets may intertwine with the evening's events, leading to a web of mystery that only the Chief Constable can unravel. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Patient in Room 18" by Mignon G. Eberhart is a mystery novel written in the late 1920s. The story unfolds within the confines of St. Ann's Hospital, where an ominous reputation surrounds a specific patient room known as Room 18, notorious for its dark history of patient deaths. The narrative revolves around the main character, Sarah Keate, a nurse who finds herself embroiled in growing tensions within the hospital, including an unsettling dinner party that presages a series of unsettling events. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to the setting and characters during a dinner party hosted by Corole Letheny, the housekeeper for Dr. Letheny, a prominent physician at the hospital. As the evening unfolds amid heavy conversation about money and ambitions, Sarah and her colleague Maida Day are drawn into a sense of foreboding. Following the dinner, a storm brings a sudden blackout to the hospital, and Sarah discovers the unsettling death of a patient, Mr. Jackson, in Room 18. Complicating the mystery, the radium treatment meant for him has disappeared, raising the alarm that foul play is at hand, and thus sets in motion a chain of events filled with suspicion and intrigue, as the characters grapple with the sinister occurrences and their own intertwined lives. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Dangerous Inheritance: or, The Mystery of the Tittani Rubies" by Izola Forrester is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Carlota, a talented young singer under the tutelage of the renowned Maestro Jacobelli. It explores themes of talent, ambition, love, and the burdens of artistic inheritance, particularly how the legacy of her famous grandmother, Margherita Paoli, influences her path. The opening of the novel introduces us to Carlota’s life in New York, her aspirations to become a celebrated singer, and the conflicting dynamics she has with those around her, including funding from the wealthy Ogden Ward and her mentor, Jacobelli. The beginning highlights Carlota's inner struggles as she grapples with her potential fame while being cautioned against romantic entanglements that could distract her from her artistic journey. Additionally, the narrative hints at a mysterious past related to the Tittani rubies, suggesting deeper secrets and challenges ahead for Carlota as she seeks to balance her artistic ambition with personal desires and familial legacies. (This is an automatically generated summary.)