Red aces

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

76541

Title

Red aces

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Edgar Wallace's *Red Aces* weaves three gripping crime thrillers centered on the enigmatic Mr. Reeder. With a tone of suspense and moral complexity, the novel explores themes of deception, greed, and justice, appealing to fans of classic detective fiction and psychological intrigue.

Summary up to 500 words

In Edgar Wallace's *Red Aces*, seasoned detective J.G. Reeder investigates three distinct cases that expose the thin line between respectability and criminality. The narrative begins with the plight of Kenneth McKay, a young bank clerk whose life unravels due to his girlfriend Margot's mysterious associations and financial troubles. Suspecting deceit, Kenneth discovers Margot meeting an elderly man, leading to a confrontation that threatens to destroy innocent lives amidst a web of missing persons and stolen funds. The second case introduces Clive Desboyne, a charismatic criminal who masquerades as a respectable citizen while orchestrating smuggling operations and murders. Desboyne, formerly known as the costermonger Attymar, utilizes elaborate disguises and staged crimes to evade detection. He attempts to frame others and eliminate witnesses, forcing Reeder to rely on his deductive skills. The tension peaks when Desboyne, facing execution, kidnaps a young woman named Anna Welford, intending to use her as a scapegoat before his hanging. Reeder tracks him down to a damp, decaying house, where he confronts the criminal, exposing his lies and vanity before the police arrive to arrest him. The third case involves the mysterious disappearance of Mr. Ralph and the activities of the notorious Pizarro Syndicate, a gang believed to be operating from Europe. Reeder investigates cryptic telegrams and abandoned properties, such as a derelict farm in Montreux, to piece together the gang's plans. Along the way, he encounters eccentric characters, including a clergyman who theorizes about treasure hunts linked to the syndicate's history. Despite initial confusion regarding a telegram sent from Berlin, Reeder's intuition guides him to uncover the darker side of human nature driving these conspiracies. Throughout the novel, Wallace masterfully builds suspense, blending fast-paced action with psychological depth. The story is punctuated by dramatic moments, including a snowy road discovery and a daring escape. Reeder's unwavering commitment to justice allows him to see through the deceptions of criminals who pride themselves on their cleverness. The novel concludes with a satisfying resolution that invites reflection on the consequences of deception and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets. Wallace's engaging style ensures that the exploration of crime, love, and betrayal remains accessible and compelling.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Fiction
• Mystery