A Strange Disappearance

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

A Strange Disappearance

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

Detective Ebenezer Gryce investigates the mysterious disappearance of a servant girl from a wealthy New York household. As he uncovers a web of secrets involving the bachelor owner, his housekeeper, and hidden family histories, Gryce navigates a tale of deception, hidden identities, and the complex bonds between class and love.

Summary up to 500 words

In Anna Katharine Green's *A Strange Disappearance*, Detective Ebenezer Gryce is summoned to the residence of wealthy bachelor Mr. Blake regarding the sudden abduction of his servant, Emily. The housekeeper, Mrs. Daniels, insists the girl was kidnapped, but Gryce suspects foul play within the household. Upon entering the opulent home, Gryce notes the room's elegance contradicts the description of a simple sewing girl's quarters. He discovers a golden hair on a comb that matches a mysterious portrait of a Countess De Mirac hanging in Mr. Blake's studio. When confronted, Mr. Blake reveals the portrait is actually of his wife, Luttra, whom he never publicly acknowledged. He explains that his father forced him to disown her to preserve family wealth and reputation. Luttra had been living in the house for eleven months, posing as a servant to protect her husband and her own identity from scandal. She was eventually kidnapped by her own father and brother, who sought to blackmail Mr. Blake. After weeks of captivity, she escaped and returned to Mr. Blake, who had been searching for her. The story culminates in the revelation of Mr. Blake's father's will, which disinherited Mr. Blake in favor of Luttra, making her the rightful heir. Overcome by emotion, Luttra tears up the will, choosing love over money. The novel concludes with their wedding reception, celebrating a union built on devotion rather than wealth.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.globalgreyebooks.com/ebooks-2/anna-katharine-green_strange-disappearance.epub

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data/epubs/url-9077a13fe290c723.epub

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2026-08-13 15:50 UTC

Categories

• Mystery
• Detective fiction