"Poirot Investigates" by Agatha Christie is a collection of detective stories written in the early 20th century. This anthology features the renowned Belgian detective Hercule Poirot solving various intriguing cases, showcasing Christie's signature style of clever plotting and character development. The opening of "Poirot Investigates" introduces us to Poirot and his companion, Captain Hastings, as they encounter a wealthy film star, Miss Mary Marvell. She seeks Poirot's assistance regarding mysterious letters she received that threaten the safety of her prized diamond, nicknamed "the Western Star." The narrative sets a tone of suspense and intrigue, as Poirot skillfully deduces the identity of the girl being followed in the streets, and a sense of foreboding is established with the mention of the supernatural and the suggestion that her diamond may be connected to a larger danger. This sets the stage for an engaging exploration of mystery and detective work. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Man in the Brown Suit" by Agatha Christie is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Anne Beddingfeld, a young woman yearning for adventure and excitement, who becomes embroiled in a complex web of intrigue after witnessing a mysterious Tube accident. With a backdrop of murder and espionage, Anne’s quest for truth leads her to unexpected encounters and revelations. The opening of the novel introduces readers to Nadina, a Russian dancer, who discusses her unease about being spied upon. She reveals to a man, who turns out to be the Count, that she possesses unique diamonds that could endanger her if the enigmatic “Colonel” learns of them. Following this, readers meet Anne Beddingfeld as she reflects on her dreary life while yearning for adventure. The narrative takes a turn when she witnesses a man fall onto the subway tracks and subsequently learns about a woman found murdered in a house connected to the man. Driven by curiosity and a desire for experience, Anne decides to investigate these events further, setting the stage for her thrilling adventure. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Murder on the Links" by Agatha Christie is a detective novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the iconic Belgian detective Hercule Poirot, who is called upon to investigate the mysterious murder of an English millionaire, Paul Renauld, in France. The narrative opens with Poirot's friend and amateur detective, Captain Hastings, recounting an encounter with a spirited young actress during a train journey, setting the stage for a thrilling tale of intrigue and deception. At the start of the novel, Hastings shares a train compartment with a lively young woman who reveals that she has lost her sister, leading to an unexpected friendship. In the following chapters, Hastings returns to London and soon learns of a dire letter from Renauld, requesting Poirot's assistance due to an imminent threat on his life. As Poirot and Hastings travel to the Villa Geneviève in Merlinville, they discover that Renauld has been found murdered, igniting the investigation. The opening showcases a clever blend of character interactions, intriguing setups, and an atmosphere brimming with suspense, capturing readers' attention as Poirot embarks on unraveling the secrets behind Renauld's death. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Whose Body?" by Dorothy L. Sayers is a detective novel written in the early 20th century. The story introduces Lord Peter Wimsey, an aristocratic amateur sleuth, who finds himself embroiled in a bizarre case involving a dead body discovered in the bath of a respectable architect. The novel features both humor and intricacies of detective work, as Lord Peter navigates through social quirks and the murkiness of crime in London. The opening portion of the novel sets the tone for a classic whodunit. Lord Peter Wimsey receives a call from his mother about the shocking discovery made by Mr. Thipps, the architect, who finds a naked corpse in his bath. Following the initial shock, Wimsey promptly decides to investigate the curious case himself. As he meets Mr. Thipps, the architect reveals his distress over the intrusion of police and the peculiar circumstances surrounding the incident. The interplay between the quirky characters and the unfolding mystery serves to create an engaging atmosphere, laying the groundwork for an entertaining exploration of motives and the peculiarities of human behavior in the face of crime. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Chronicles of Martin Hewitt" by Arthur Morrison is a collection of detective stories written in the late 19th century. The book features the character Martin Hewitt, who is a private investigator known for his keen powers of deduction. Through a series of engaging cases, the stories explore the intricacies of crime-solving and the human motivations behind them. The opening of the book introduces readers to the first case, "The Ivy Cottage Mystery." The narrative begins with the protagonist, who is working in the press, becoming intrigued by the murder of an artist named Gavin Kingscote. As the storyline unfolds, we meet Martin Hewitt, the detective, who has been approached by Kingscote's brother to investigate the unsatisfactory police inquiry. The story sets the stage for a suspenseful exploration of the murder scene and its mysterious elements, including potential motives and connections to other characters, that will challenge Hewitt's deductive skills as he seeks the truth behind the murder. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Last Stroke: A Detective Story" by Lawrence L. Lynch is a detective novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the mysterious death of a beloved schoolteacher, Charles Brierly, raising questions of whether it was an accident or murder. The narrative introduces key characters including his fiancée Hilda Grant, who is in deep distress, and his brother Robert Brierly, who arrives to uncover the truth surrounding his brother's demise. The opening of the story paints a picturesque scene of Glenville on a May morning, establishing a serene yet foreboding atmosphere as Charles Brierly fails to arrive at school. This absence prompts concern from students and teachers alike. Hilda Grant, the under-teacher, expresses growing anxiety over Brierly's tardiness, leading to a search for him that soon reveals he has been found dead near the lake. The narrative shifts between the unfolding mystery and the emotional turmoil faced by those close to the deceased, setting the stage for a gripping investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. As the community grapples with the loss, hints of a deeper, darker intrigue begin to emerge, suggesting that all is not what it seems. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"That Affair at Elizabeth" by Burton Egbert Stevenson is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around an urgent wedding scenario that transforms into a mystery when the bride-to-be, Marcia Lawrence, disappears on the very day she is set to marry Burr Curtiss. This unexpected turn triggers a series of events led by the protagonist, Mr. Lester, who is called upon to uncover the reasons behind her sudden flight. The opening of the book sets the stage with Mr. Royce, a junior partner at a law firm, preparing for his friend Burr's wedding when he learns that Marcia is missing. As Royce rushes to Elizabeth to assist, it becomes evident that Marcia’s disappearance is not merely a case of cold feet, but something much deeper and more troubling. Through a series of conversations, Royce and Lester uncover details about Marcia’s life and her mother, revealing complex emotions and mysterious circumstances. The narrative builds a sense of urgency and intrigue as Lester embarks on the search for Marcia, demanding answers that intertwine love, societal expectations, and hidden secrets. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Max Carrados" by Ernest Bramah is a collection of detective stories written in the early 20th century. The book features Max Carrados, an intriguing blind detective known for his keen deductive skills and remarkable ability to perceive details that others might overlook. The narratives typically revolve around Carrados solving various perplexing mysteries, using his unique perspective as a blind man to outsmart both criminals and skeptics alike. The opening of "Max Carrados" introduces us to the titular character through his acquaintance, Mr. Carlyle, who visits Carrados to seek help with a potentially counterfeit ancient coin. As Carlyle explains the urgency and significance of determining the coin's authenticity due to a related crime, we learn about Carrados's extraordinary senses and ability to discern details without sight. The dialogue establishes a blend of camaraderie and professional respect, highlighting Carrados’s methodical approach as he navigates the circumstances surrounding the case and engages in mind-bending deductions. The stage is set for a series of intriguing whodunits that promise not only to challenge Carrados but to showcase the author's clever writing and the detective's sharp intellect. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Red Triangle: Being Some Further Chronicles of Martin Hewitt, Investigator" by Arthur Morrison is a collection of detective stories written in the early 20th century. This work continues the adventures of the titular character, Martin Hewitt, a private investigator known for his unconventional methods and amiable demeanor, as he solves a series of intriguing cases. The narrative begins with the case of a diamond theft, setting the stage for a complex web of mysteries surrounding the enigmatic symbol of the Red Triangle. The opening of the book introduces readers to a fascinating scenario where Hewitt is approached by a distraught diamond dealer, Lewis Samuel. Samuel explains that he has been robbed of a significant quantity of diamonds under suspicious circumstances involving an acquaintance named Denson. As Hewitt begins to unravel the details, the tension rises, indicating that there may be more to this case than a simple robbery. The narrative hints at a deeper conspiracy connected to the mysterious Red Triangle, leaving readers eager to discover how the intricate plot unfolds and what secrets lie beneath Samuel's tale. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Brand of Silence: A Detective Story" by Harrington Strong is a detective novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Sidney Prale, a man who returns to New York after a decade of making a fortune in Honduras, only to find himself entangled in a murder investigation upon his arrival. As he seeks to clear his name, Prale is confronted by mysterious enemies and cryptic messages hinting at retribution for undisclosed past actions. The opening of the narrative sets a vivid scene as Prale arrives in New York, reflecting on the changes after his long absence. He briefly reconnects with an acquaintance from his voyage, Rufus Shepley, only to be met with unexpected hostility. Following this, Prale discovers that someone has rummaged through his belongings, leaving behind a foreboding note about inevitable retribution. As he attempts to navigate his new life and keep his money secure, he is drawn further into a web of suspicion, enemies, and deceit, leading to his shocking arrest for Shepley's murder. This gripping introduction invites readers to unravel the mysteries surrounding Prale's past and the dangers lurking in his return home. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Angel of Terror" by Edgar Wallace is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around James Meredith, a man convicted of murder against a backdrop of jealousy and intrigue, and the implications of his conviction on those around him, including his fiancée, Jean Briggerland. As the narrative unfolds, themes of love, betrayal, and the pursuit of justice come to the forefront. At the start of the book, we are introduced to the tense atmosphere of a courtroom where James Meredith is sentenced for the murder of Ferdinand Bulford, an alleged crime driven by jealousy over his engagement to Jean Briggerland. The court's decision and the complicated dynamics between the characters, including the prominent lawyers and witnesses present, establish an air of mystery surrounding the true events. Following the trial, we see Lydia Beale, an artist burdened by debt, who becomes entwined in the lives of these characters, particularly as plans are set in motion that involve a marriage of convenience to save Meredith from his harsh fate. The opening portion sets the stage for a gripping tale of conspiracy and unexpected alliances as Lydia's choices will ultimately impact her life and the lives of those around her. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Daffodil Mystery" by Edgar Wallace is a mystery novel likely written in the early 20th century. The book centers around Thornton Lyne, a wealthy store proprietor and poet, whose life takes a tragic turn when he is found murdered in Hyde Park. The story intertwines themes of deception, social status, and complex human relationships, particularly focusing on the enigmatic Odette Rider, who works under Lyne and becomes embroiled in the swirling suspicions surrounding his death. At the start of the narrative, we meet Odette Rider, a strong-willed young woman, who finds herself rejecting Thornton Lyne's unwanted advances amidst a tense conversation in his office. Lyne's frustrated and sinister thoughts follow her departure, hinting at his potential cruelty and obsession. As the storyline unfolds, it introduces several characters, including the detective Jack Tarling and the dubious Mr. Milburgh, all contributing to the intricate web of intrigue surrounding Lyne's demise. The opening chapters lay the groundwork for a tale of ambition, betrayal, and the search for truth, as various players navigate the ramifications of the murder and the secrets that run deeper than they initially appear. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Borough Treasurer" by J. S. Fletcher is a murder mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the character Milford Cotherstone, the Borough Treasurer, who finds himself in a precarious situation when his tenant, the elderly Mr. Kitely, is found dead under suspicious circumstances. As the plot unfolds, themes of blackmail, buried secrets, and the consequences of past actions surface, as Cotherstone grapples with the fear of his dark history being exposed. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Highmarket, the town where the story takes place, and the main characters, including Cotherstone and his partner Mallalieu. The plot kicks off with a tense encounter between Cotherstone and Kitely, who reveals that he recognizes Cotherstone from a conviction thirty years prior, leading to implications of blackmail. The opening builds a sense of impending dread as Kitely is later found dead, raising questions about Cotherstone's involvement and his desperate need to keep his former life hidden. The stage is set for a gripping investigation into murder and corruption, with Cotherstone's precarious position at its center. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"R. Holmes & Co." by John Kendrick Bangs is a collection of humorous detective stories likely written in the late 19th century. The book introduces Raffles Holmes, the son of the famous detective Sherlock Holmes, and follows his adventures as he employs a mix of intellect and dubious tactics to solve crimes, often in partnership with a narrator who seems both bemused and fascinated by Holmes's unorthodox methods. The opening of the narrative establishes a uniquely comedic tone as the narrator experiences an unbearable heatwave in New York, only to find himself drawn into the escapades of Raffles Holmes, who unexpectedly breaks into his apartment. The encounter quickly escalates as Holmes nonchalantly reveals his intentions while revealing his identity and family lineage. This initial interaction sets the stage for a series of clever plots intermingled with lighthearted banter, ultimately showcasing Raffles’s knack for turning criminal situations to his advantage while still evoking the legacy of his illustrious father. The groundwork is laid for further capers, highlighting Raffles Holmes's dual heritage of crime and detection amid witty commentary on the nature of both. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Hand in the Dark" by Arthur J. Rees is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work plunges the reader into a haunting world centered around the ominous history of an English moat-house, which has borne witness to centuries of tragedy, from medieval conflicts to modern-day turmoil. The story begins in the aftermath of World War I, blending themes of love, loss, and the supernatural as the characters grapple with their intertwined fates against the backdrop of a house steeped in ghostly legacies. At the start of the novel, the mood is set with rich descriptions of the old moat-house, which serves as both a character and a setting filled with dark history. The opening chapter introduces the reader to a diverse group of characters gathered at the property, including Miss Alethea Heredith, the formidable hostess; her nephew Philip, who recently married Violet; and a range of their modern friends. As they prepare for a country dance, the palpable tension crescendos with Violet's mysterious illness, and the story takes a thrilling turn when her bloodied body is discovered after a shriek pierces the gathering, signifying a chilling murder that disrupts the life and peace of the historic moorland estate. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Shrieking Pit" by Arthur J. Rees is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds against the backdrop of World War I and introduces the character of Grant Colwyn, an American detective, as he navigates a series of peculiar and disturbing events, beginning with a mysterious young man, Ronald, who exhibits alarming behavior at a seaside hotel and is soon implicated in a murder. At the start of the novel, Colwyn, while enjoying a meal at the Grand Hotel in Durrington, observes Ronald's erratic conduct during breakfast. Colwyn suspects that Ronald is suffering from shell-shock due to his war experiences, but his condition escalates to a fainting fit. With the assistance of Sir Henry Durwood, a doctor at the hotel, Colwyn helps Ronald to his room, whereupon news emerges that Ronald has been accused of murdering Mr. Glenthorpe, an elderly archaeologist. As the investigation deepens, Colwyn becomes embroiled in unraveling the mystery surrounding Ronald's actions and the implications of his mental state, setting the stage for a gripping tale of suspense and intrigue. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Holladay Case: A Tale" by Burton Egbert Stevenson is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. This story centers around the shocking murder of Hiram W. Holladay, a wealthy Wall Street magnate, and the ensuing investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. The primary focus is on his daughter, Frances Holladay, who stands accused of the crime, and the complexities that unfold as attorney Mr. Royce takes on her defense. The opening of the novel sets a tense and dramatic scene as characters grapple with the implications of the headline news regarding Frances's alleged crime. Mr. Royce and his colleagues are introduced, highlighting their mixed emotions regarding the case. The narrative quickly draws readers into the investigation, revealing that Frances was reportedly in her father’s office shortly before his death but offering no clear alibi for her whereabouts. As tensions mount and evidence seems to be stacked against her, the stage is set for a deeper exploration of family secrets, the nature of guilt, and the search for truth alongside compelling courtroom dynamics as Mr. Royce seeks to uncover the real story and clear Frances of the charges. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Triumphs of Eugène Valmont" by Robert Barr is a collection of detective stories likely written in the late 19th century. The book features the character Eugène Valmont, a former chief detective for the French government who has moved to London and now operates as a private detective. The stories revolve around Valmont's clever investigative tactics as he tackles various mysteries and crimes. At the start of this tale, the reader is introduced to Valmont, who reflects on his past work as a detective in France and expresses satisfaction with his current state in London. He is soon drawn into the case surrounding the retrieval of a legendary diamond necklace, rumored to bring misfortune to those who possess it. With the backdrop of various characters, including wealthy buyers and potential criminals who gather for the auction of the necklace, Valmont prepares himself to navigate the dangerous world of theft and deception, highlighting the tensions between his duty to protect valuable treasures and the lurking threats of crime. The opening sets an engaging tone for a narrative filled with intrigue, clever plotting, and a charismatic protagonist. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Circular Study" by Anna Katharine Green is a novel written in the early 20th century. This intriguing mystery introduces Mr. Gryce, an elderly detective who is unexpectedly awakened from his melancholy state when he learns of a "strange crime" that has occurred in the home of a reclusive man named Mr. Adams. As Gryce investigates this mysterious case, he grapples with the tensions of the past, discovering a crime scene that promises both horror and enlightenment. At the start of the story, the old detective is called to the site of a murder after a boy delivers a chilling message about a crime committed in Mr. Adams' mansion. The narrative details Gryce's arrival at the scene, where he finds the body of Adams dramatically posed upon a bear rug with a dagger in his heart, surrounded by a peculiar atmosphere filled with rose-colored light. As Gryce inspects the room, he uncovers small clues, including the path of glittering spangles, which suggest a woman had been present. The story sets off a chain of events that draws in diverse characters, propelling the detective—and the reader—into a labyrinth of emotions, secrets, and the enduring quest for truth. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"L'argent des autres: 2. La pêche en eau trouble" by Emile Gaboriau is a fictional novel written in the late 19th century. The story primarily revolves around the characters Maxence Favoral and Mlle Lucienne, exploring themes of love, ambition, and moral dilemmas set against the backdrop of a financial scandal. As the narrative unfolds, it delves into their complex relationship amidst the upheavals caused by Maxence's father's criminal actions. The opening of the novel sets a somber tone, introducing us to Maxence as he grapples with the weight of significant life events following a mysterious encounter with a captivating woman, Lucienne. He is caught between his growing infatuation for her and the fear of an overwhelming passion that could dictate his future. As their relationship develops into a close friendship, Maxence's internal conflicts are accentuated. The story quickly escalates as news of Maxence's father's financial misconduct surfaces, plunging both characters into a web of intrigue and ethical quandaries. The dynamics of their friendship and the decisions they must confront are central to understanding the tension and moral complexity that the narrative promises. (This is an automatically generated summary.)