The Mystery of Orcival

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

The Mystery of Orcival

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

Set in the picturesque village of Orcival, this classic mystery follows the discovery of the Countess de Tremorel's body in the Seine. As police investigate the murder, secrets involving the Count's suicide attempt, a poisoned friend, and a devoted lover surface, revealing a web of deceit and passion.

Summary up to 500 words

In Émile Gaboriau's *The Mystery of Orcival*, a seemingly idyllic French commune is shattered by the discovery of the Countess de Tremorel's body in the river near her estate. The investigation reveals that the Count, Hector de Tremorel, was not a victim of circumstance but a calculated criminal. He had previously poisoned his wealthy friend, Sauvresy, to secure his fortune and marry the Countess. His accomplice was the Countess's maid, Laurence, whom he manipulated with promises of love and a child. The narrative follows the arrival of Detective M. Lecoq and Justice of the Peace M. Plantat, who uncover the depth of Hector's depravity. It is revealed that Hector murdered his wife and his friend, leaving Laurence to bear the brunt of the scandal. When the truth comes to light, Hector attempts suicide but is thwarted. In a tragic climax, Laurence shoots Hector to protect his reputation before attempting to take her own life. Lecoq intervenes, saving Laurence and offering her a path to redemption through charity. The novel concludes with the release of the innocent poachers, the marriage of the Justice and Laurence, and the sale of the Count's estate. Lecoq becomes the sole inheritor of the estate's legacy, while the story explores themes of deception, the corruption of wealth, and the possibility of moral redemption even after grave sins. The tale serves as a cautionary look at the dark secrets hidden beneath the surface of respectable society.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.globalgreyebooks.com/ebooks/emile-gaboriau_mystery-of-orcival.epub

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Categories

• Fiction
• Mystery