The looker-on

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

78884

Title

The looker-on

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set in turn-of-the-century London, this sensational mystery follows reporter Victor Keene as he investigates the brutal murder of a young woman. Blending journalistic intrigue with romantic subplots, the novel explores themes of deception, class, and the dark underbelly of the city's press, culminating in a twist-filled revelation of a master criminal's elaborate scheme.

Summary up to 500 words

In William Le Queux's *The Looker-On*, the narrative unfolds within the high-stakes world of London journalism, centering on reporter Victor Keene, known as 'The Murder-Monger,' and his friend, the renowned special correspondent Julian Little. The plot is ignited by the baffling assassination of Louise Lorimer, a defenseless girl found dead in a house at Barnes. Detective Inspector Whitlock and Keene initially suspect Louise's brother, Fred Stonor, and his sister, Mrs. Pennington, due to their evasive behavior and apparent knowledge of the crime. As the investigation penetrates the corridors of the press, the story introduces key figures such as the aspiring singer Daisy Marvin and the shady adventurer Drayton. Tensions escalate as accusations fly, with Drayton initially framed as the killer before his alibi is challenged. The narrative weaves through a web of secret meetings, forged evidence, and a 'double life' lived by the central characters. The truth eventually emerges: Fred Stonor is the mastermind who murdered Louise to silence her after she discovered his fraudulent business dealings. In a calculated move to evade justice, Stonor meticulously framed Drayton and even engineered the suicide of his own wife to cover his tracks. The story concludes with the exposure of Stonor's guilt, the arrest of the real killer, and a happy resolution for Victor and Daisy, who marry and leave the dangerous world of crime behind. The novel explores themes of deception, the pressure of public scrutiny, and the moral complexities faced by those in the public eye, ultimately revealing how a seemingly perfect facade can crumble under the weight of a hidden, crooked truth.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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