The Eight Strokes of the Clock

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

The Eight Strokes of the Clock

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

In Maurice Leblanc's classic adventure, Arsène Lupin, the gentleman thief, assumes the identity of Prince Rénine to solve eight intricate mysteries. While quietly courting the spirited Hortense, he protects her from danger, outwits criminals, and restores justice in a series of thrilling escapades that blend romance, suspense, and clever deduction.

Summary up to 500 words

In Maurice Leblanc's *The Eight Strokes of the Clock*, the legendary gentleman thief Arsène Lupin, posing as the enigmatic Prince Rénine, enters the life of Hortense d'Aigleroche. Hortense, trapped in a stifling marriage to an insane count and living under the guardianship of her wealthy but cold uncle, is planning an elopement with a suitor named Rossigny. Prince Rénine intervenes, deliberately shooting at Hortense's car to delay her departure. He reveals his true motive: he is protecting her from a man exploiting her family's financial troubles. This marks the beginning of a pact where Rénine agrees to solve eight specific problems for Hortense before the clock at her family's château strikes eight. The first adventure sees Rénine saving Hortense's friend, Dalbrègue, from a gang of thieves. Using his cunning, he traps the criminals and hides Dalbrègue in Hortense's car, ensuring his safety even as the police pursue him. The second mystery takes place at Étretat, where Rénine investigates a planned murder on the cliffs. He uncovers a conspiracy between a brother and sister who intend to eliminate a third party to facilitate an arranged marriage. Through careful observation, he prevents the crime and exposes the conspirators. The third case involves the seemingly impossible murder of Jacques d'Ormeval, found dead in a locked cabin with a wound on his back that no one could have inflicted. Rénine deduces the killer entered via a hidden mechanism or was already inside, utilizing his knowledge of stage magic to solve the puzzle and identify the murderer. Throughout these feats, Rénine demonstrates his dual nature: a charming, devoted lover who risks everything for Hortense, and a master criminal who manipulates events with ease. He also solves a theft involving a cornelian clasp hidden inside a statue of Mercury, proving his superiority over the thief who stole it. Each case reinforces his reputation as a man who can do the impossible, often saving lives and restoring honor. As the clock strikes eight, marking the end of the agreed-upon challenges, Hortense realizes that Rénine is not just a protector but a man she has fallen deeply in love with. The final stroke of the clock signals the end of the formal agreement, allowing their relationship to evolve from a game into a genuine romance. The novel concludes with Hortense accepting Rénine's devotion, ready to face whatever adventures await them together.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Short Stories
• Mystery