813

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

813

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

In Monte Carlo, the wealthy Rudolf Kesselbach is framed for murder as a ruthless killer hunts him. The story reveals that the police chief, M. Lenormand, is actually the legendary Arsène Lupin, who has been secretly protecting society. As Lupin navigates prison and a complex web of espionage, he uncovers the truth behind the Kesselbach tragedy. A thrilling tale of identity, justice, and Lupin's final, dramatic stand against fate.

Summary up to 500 words

In Maurice Leblanc's *813*, the narrative unfolds as a complex farce of identity and justice centered on the legendary Arsène Lupin. The story begins with Rudolf Kesselbach, a wealthy industrialist in Monte Carlo, discovering his suite breached. He is confronted by a mysterious figure claiming to be 'The Colonel,' who is revealed to be Prince Sernine, a notorious criminal. However, the situation takes a dramatic turn when the real Prince Sernine is exposed as Arsène Lupin himself. For years, Lupin had successfully impersonated the police chief, M. Lenormand, and the criminal Prince Sernine to maintain order and protect his allies, including the Emperor of Germany, whom he saved from a rockslide orchestrated by his own hand. The plot thickens as Lupin reveals that Mrs. Kesselbach was the true mastermind behind the forgeries and the murder frame-up, having retained the Emperor's genuine letters while distributing fakes. After exposing the conspirators, including the imposter Pierre Leduc and the villainous Malreich, Lupin decides to end his life. He escapes his cell, visits a hermit he had previously saved, and then leaps from a cliff into the sea, choosing death over the loss of his freedom and the end of his heroic comedy. The story concludes with Lupin's spirit seemingly reappearing in the Foreign Legion, suggesting his legend lives on. The novel is a masterful blend of detective fiction, farce, and romance, showcasing Lupin's intellect, charm, and tragic heroism. It explores themes of identity, the nature of justice, and the burden of fame, presenting Lupin not just as a thief, but as a guardian of society who operates outside the law to uphold a higher moral code. His final act is a poignant farewell to a life of adventure, leaving behind a legacy that outlives his physical presence.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

Download URL

https://www.globalgreyebooks.com/ebooks/maurice-leblanc_813.epub

Local file path

data/epubs/url-b56baec64175ad90.epub

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Downloaded at

2026-07-01 12:12 UTC

Categories

• Mystery
• Detective fiction