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Earl Derr Biggers

    August 26, 1884 – April 5, 1933

    Earl Derr Biggers was an American novelist celebrated for his mystery fiction. His writing is characterized by intricate plots and compelling characters that immerse readers in worlds of intrigue. Biggers explored themes of morality and justice, often with an exotic flair. His works continue to captivate audiences with their clever construction and memorable protagonists.

    Earl Derr Biggers
    Charlie Chan Volume 1-The House Without a Key & The Chinese Parrot
    Fifty Candles
    The Chinese Parrot
    Behind That Curtain (1928)
    Charlie Chan Volume 3
    Charlie Chan Volume 2-Behind that Curtain & The Black Camel
    • Charlie Chan Volume 2-Behind that Curtain & The Black Camel

      Two Complete Novels Featuring the Legendary Chinese-Hawaiian Detective

      • 424 pages
      • 15 hours of reading

      Featuring two intriguing mysteries, this collection showcases the legendary detective Charlie Chan as he unravels complex cases with his keen intellect and unique methods. Readers will be drawn into the suspenseful plots filled with twists and turns, highlighting Chan's cultural insights and deductive reasoning. These stories not only entertain but also delve into themes of justice and morality, making them timeless additions to the mystery genre.

      Charlie Chan Volume 2-Behind that Curtain & The Black Camel
      4.3
    • Charlie Chan Volume 3

      Charlie Chan Carries On & Keeper of the Keys

      • 380 pages
      • 14 hours of reading

      The final installment of the Leonaur series features two captivating Charlie Chan mysteries. In the first story, the detective aids Scotland Yard's Inspector Duff, who is injured while pursuing a global murderer. Chan steps in to solve the case. The second tale takes Chan to California, where he is a guest of an opera singer and quickly becomes entangled in a murder investigation involving various suspects, including ex-husbands and a dog named Trouble. Both narratives showcase Chan's keen investigative skills and the complexity of human relationships.

      Charlie Chan Volume 3
      4.0
    • Behind That Curtain (1928)

      • 172 pages
      • 7 hours of reading

      The third novel in the Charlie Chan series.set almost exclusively in California (as opposed to Chan's native Hawaii), and tells the story of the former head of Scotland Yard, a detective who is pursuing the long-cold trail of a murderer. Fifteen years ago, a London solicitor was killed in circumstances in which the only clue was a pair of Chinese slippers, which he apparently donned just before his death. Sir Frederic Bruce has been following the trail of the killer ever since. He has also been interested in what appears to be a series of disappearing women around the world, which has some connection to the disappearance of a woman named Eve Durand in rural India also fifteen years ago. Just when it seems he might finally solve the murder case, at a dinner party to which a number of important and mysterious guests have been invited, Inspector Bruce is killed -- and was last seen wearing a pair of Chinese slippers, which have vanished. It is left to Chan to solve the case and tie up all loose ends.

      Behind That Curtain (1928)
      3.8
    • The Chinese Parrot

      • 380 pages
      • 14 hours of reading

      Set against the backdrop of 1920s California, this mystery novel features Charlie Chan as he investigates a crime linked to the death of a parrot. It marks the detective's transition from Hawaii to the mainland, showcasing Biggers' unique blend of intrigue and cultural exploration. Inspired by a real-life detective, Chan became a beloved character, leading to numerous adaptations and a significant legacy in film. Earl Derr Biggers, a Harvard-educated author, crafted six Chan novels, cementing his place in literary and cinematic history before his untimely death at 48.

      The Chinese Parrot
      3.7
    • Fifty Candles

      Bonus Edition

      • 104 pages
      • 4 hours of reading

      Set against the backdrop of Hawaii, the narrative weaves together themes of mystery and cultural intrigue, reflecting the author's fascination with the islands following a 1919 vacation. Inspired by a real-life Chinese detective, Chang Apana, the book showcases the early development of characters that would later evolve into the iconic Charlie Chan. Published shortly after his trip, it highlights the intersection of Hawaii, China, and murder, revealing Biggers' emerging storytelling style and his dedication to mystery fiction.

      Fifty Candles
      3.7
    • Charlie Chan-the famous and popular Chinese-Hawaiian police detective-has entertained his audience through several different mediums, from the written word to the movie screen, A number of authors have turned their pens to the character, but, in fact, Charlie Chan appeared originally in just six novels written by Earl Derr Biggers between 1925 and 1932. It is these colourful tales of the original Charlie Chan that comprise the Leonaur collection of three volumes-this volume contains the first two novels. In The House Without a Key we are introduced to Chan, a corpulent father of nine, as he uses all his considerable faculties to solve the mystifying case of a murdered father and a missing jewel box. In The Chinese Parrot, Chan dons a disguise and goes undercover to solve a complex triple intrigue involving a fake identity, a kidnapping and a murder. These wonderful examples of twentieth century detective fiction bring the world of 1920s Hawaii to vibrant life once again-and richly deserve their classic status.

      Charlie Chan Volume 1-The House Without a Key & The Chinese Parrot
      4.0
    • Charlie Chan in Keeper of the Keys

      • 308 pages
      • 11 hours of reading

      Set against the backdrop of 1925, the story introduces Charlie Chan, the first Chinese detective in literature, inspired by real-life Honolulu detective Chang Apana. This groundbreaking work, serialized in 'The Saturday Evening Post,' marks the beginning of the Charlie Chan series and showcases a unique blend of mystery and cultural representation, highlighting Chan's investigative prowess in a captivating narrative.

      Charlie Chan in Keeper of the Keys
      3.9
    • The Black Camel

      • 360 pages
      • 13 hours of reading

      Set against the backdrop of Hawaii, the narrative revolves around the murder of Hollywood star Shelah Fane, who is killed in her rented pavilion after filming in Tahiti. Detective Charlie Chan, representing the Honolulu Police Department, is thrust into a public outcry for justice as he investigates the crime. The story captures the tension of the investigation while exploring themes of fame and mortality. Inspired by a real-life detective, Biggers created Chan, leading to a legacy of popular novels and films that followed.

      The Black Camel
      4.0
    • Love Insurance

      • 240 pages
      • 9 hours of reading

      Working for an American branch of Lloyds' insurers, Owen Jephson is used to underwriting unusual things, nonetheless he is taken aback when Lord Harrowby asks him to insure against his fiancee jilting him at the altar. Never one to turn down an interesting offer, he agrees but swiftly dispatches Dick Minot to Florida to make sure that Lloyds' assets are protected and that Cynthia Meyrick makes it down the aisle. Unfortunately Minot promptly falls in love with Cynthia after accidentally meeting her on a train, and has to decide where his loyalties lie - should he sabotage or support the wedding, especially as it comes to light Lord Harrowby may not be all that he seems?

      Love Insurance
      3.7
    • The Agony Column

      • 108 pages
      • 4 hours of reading

      Set against a backdrop of intrigue, this classic mystery novel weaves a tale filled with suspense and complex characters. The story unfolds with a gripping plot that showcases the author's signature style, known for creating memorable detective figures like Charlie Chan. Readers can expect a captivating journey through twists and turns, as the narrative delves into themes of crime and resolution, making it a timeless addition to the mystery genre.

      The Agony Column
      3.8
    • The House Without a Key

      • 256 pages
      • 9 hours of reading

      The story unfolds with a shocking murder in a beach house in Waikiki, where a wealthy man is found dead with a knife in his heart and a lizard leaving a bloody trail on his pajamas. This gripping mystery introduces Charlie Chan, who must unravel the circumstances surrounding the violent crime. The vivid setting and unusual details set the stage for a thrilling investigation that combines elements of suspense and intrigue.

      The House Without a Key
      3.6
    • Behind That Curtain

      The Earl Derr Biggers CHAN! Detective Fiction Series from Meta Mad Books

      • 310 pages
      • 11 hours of reading

      The story features Charlie Chan, a renowned Chinese-American detective, as he navigates a complex web of intrigue and deception that spans continents and decades. This installment presents his most perplexing case, immersing readers in a shadowy world filled with mystery. Earl Derr Biggers crafts a narrative that challenges both Chan and the reader, offering a blend of suspense and cultural insights.

      Behind That Curtain
    • The Black Camel

      The Earl Derr Biggers CHAN! Detective Fiction Series from Meta Mad Books

      • 304 pages
      • 11 hours of reading

      Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1920s Hawaii, the narrative weaves together the enchanting scenery and a gripping mystery involving murder. Central to the story is Charlie Chan, a Chinese-Hawaiian detective renowned for his sharp intellect and distinctive viewpoint, making him exceptionally skilled at unraveling complex crimes. The contrast between the idyllic island life and the sinister events unfolding creates a captivating atmosphere that draws readers into a world of intrigue and suspense.

      The Black Camel
    • The Chinese Parrot

      A Charlie Chan Mystery

      • 248 pages
      • 9 hours of reading

      In this second installment of the Charlie Chan Mystery Series, the plot centers around a captivating mystery involving a stolen parrot that holds crucial clues. As Chan navigates a web of deception and intrigue, he encounters a colorful cast of characters, each with their own secrets. The story blends humor and suspense, showcasing Chan's keen detective skills and cultural insights, making it an engaging read for mystery enthusiasts.

      The Chinese Parrot
    • Charlie Chan Carries on (Hardback)

      • 212 pages
      • 8 hours of reading

      Set against the backdrop of a global voyage, Inspector Duff embarks on a thrilling quest to catch a cunning murderer. As he navigates through various cultures and landscapes, the tension escalates, revealing secrets and unexpected alliances among the passengers. The story intertwines mystery and adventure, showcasing Duff's investigative skills in a race against time to uncover the truth before the killer strikes again.

      Charlie Chan Carries on (Hardback)
    • The character of Charlie Chan, a Chinese detective, is celebrated for his intelligence and moral integrity, challenging negative stereotypes prevalent at the time of his creation. Crafted by Earl Derr Biggers, Chan is portrayed as a brilliant investigator with keen observational skills, despite his limited English proficiency. His adventures have transcended literature, inspiring adaptations in television and film that captivate audiences of all ages. This Omnibus Edition compiles six novels, making it essential for fans of the iconic detective.

      The Complete Charlie Chan - Six Unabridged Novels, the House Without a Key, the Chinese Parrot, Behind That Curtain, the Black Camel, Charlie Chan Car
    • The Agony Column

      in large print

      • 100 pages
      • 4 hours of reading

      Focusing on accessibility, this book is a reproduction of a historical work presented in large print. Published by Megali, a company dedicated to enhancing readability for individuals with impaired vision, it emphasizes the importance of making literature more accessible to a wider audience.

      The Agony Column
    • The collection features the final three mysteries of Charlie Chan, showcasing the detective's adventures in diverse settings. In "The Black Camel," a Hollywood star is murdered in Hawaii, while "Charlie Chan Carries On" sees him stepping in for an injured Scotland Yard inspector during a global chase. "Keeper of the Keys" takes Chan to rural California as a houseguest. Earl Derr Biggers, inspired by a real-life detective, created the beloved character, leading to over 40 film adaptations. His early death cut short his legacy, but Chan remains an iconic figure.

      The Charlie Chan Collection - Volume II. (The Black Camel - Charlie Chan Carries On - Keeper of the Keys)
    • The Chinese Parrot

      The Earl Derr Biggers CHAN! Detective Fiction Series

      • 320 pages
      • 12 hours of reading

      Set against the backdrop of California's sun-drenched deserts, this novel immerses readers in a gripping narrative filled with mystery and intrigue. The story follows the iconic detective Charlie Chan as he navigates a web of deception and cunning, promising an engaging blend of suspense and clever twists that define the series.

      The Chinese Parrot
    • Seven Keys to Baldpate

      • 188 pages
      • 7 hours of reading

      A young woman finds herself in a state of deep distress in a railway station waiting room in Upper Asquewan Falls, New York. The scene sets the stage for an emotional journey, hinting at personal turmoil and the unfolding of her story. The setting and her tears suggest a significant event or loss that has brought her to this moment, inviting readers to explore the reasons behind her sorrow and what lies ahead in her life.

      Seven Keys to Baldpate
    • Eine amerikanische Reisegruppe im exklusiven Londoner Hotel „Broome“ wird von einem Mord erschüttert, als Mr. Hugh tot in seinem Zimmer aufgefunden wird. Chefinspektor Duff ermittelt, doch der Verdächtige wird ebenfalls ermordet. Erst Charlie Chan kann auf Hawaii den Mörder entlarven, der bereits vier Menschen getötet hat.

      Charlie Chan macht weiter. Ein klassischer Kriminalroman aus dem Jahre 1930.
      5.0
    • Charlie Chan a vražda u jezera

      • 206 pages
      • 8 hours of reading

      Detektivní román, v němž detektiv Charlie Chan, znalec lidských povah a vášní vyřeší případ vraždy slavné zpěvačky. Čtyři bývalí manželé slavné zpěvačky se sejdou na sídle jednoho z nich, ke schůzce je pozván i známý detektiv. Hostitel, Dudley Ward, první z exmanželů má pro všechny otázku, nevědí-li něco o osudu jeho dítěte, které se narodilo po rozvodu. Na schůzku se dostaví i jejich bývalá manželka se svým nynějším milencem. Vzápětí je však zavražděna. Každý z těchto mužů měl pádný důvod k jejímu zavraždění. Na honolulském detektivovi čínského původu je, aby případ vyřešil. Schopný detektiv se případu ujímá se svou příslovečnou bravurou. Román napsaný ve 30. letech nese všechny znaky tehdejšího pojetí detektivky.

      Charlie Chan a vražda u jezera
      4.0
    • Okouzlující filmová hvězda, Shelah Faneová, vracející se lodí Oceánie z Tahiti do přímořského Honolulu, aby zde dokončila svůj nákladný velkofilm z jižních moří, dostává neodolatelnou nabídku pohádkově bohatého muže. Tato kráska je těsně před zahájením seznamovacího večírku s pozvanými osobnostmi zavražděna v zahradním altánku. Do hry vstupuje proslulý detektiv honolulske policie Charlie Chan a záhadný jasnovidec Tarneverr. Úžasně napínavý příběh, mistrovsky vyprávěný, se širokým záběrem a koloritem divukrásné tichomořské přírody a města Honolulu, plného erotického vábení a intrik je zárukou vzrušujícího čtenářského zážitku.

      Charlie Chan a černý velbloud
      4.0
    • Dvě novely o vraždách nožem byly klasikem americké detektivní literatury napsány v 1. polovině 20. století. Padesát svíček: záhadná vražda proradného důlního magnáta a jeho společníka v San Franciscu je propojena s dávným případem z Honolulu a s čínskou povahou, ale obsahuje i příběh lásky. Sloup nářků: detektivní hříčka, ve které mladý Američan v Londýně chce ohromit dívku svého srdce a v několika dopisech jí líčí vlastní účast na tajuplné vraždě pohledného kapitána. Povídky od stvořitele slavného čínského detektiva Charlie Chana mají dnes hodnotu spíše historickou a jsou určeny k nenáročnému pobavení.

      Nůž jako vražedná zbraň
      3.5
    • Do horského městečka přijíždí spisovatel, který až dosud psal jen laciné detektivky. Teď se rozhodl, že má na víc a chce napsal knihu, která vyrazí kritikům dech. Vytvoření takového díla vyžaduje soustředění a naprostou samotu a proto se několik dní před Vánocemi vydá do prázdného horského hotelu, jehož majitel mu půjčil klíč. Na místě ho ovšem čeká nemilé překvapení, není tam sám. V hotelu se postupně objevují další hosté, kteří jej vtáhnou do víru neuvěřitelných příhod.... celý text

      Sedm klíčů k Baldpate
      3.4
    • Detektivní román uvádí čtenáře do Honolulu 20. let; napínavá zápletka kolem vraždy místního boháče je spojena s vyzrálou literární formou. Napínavou fabulí, exotickým prostředím i výborným literárním zpracováním uspokojí i nejnáročnější ctitele tohoto žánru. (www.pitaval.cz)

      Dům bez klíče
      3.6
    • Detektivní román, v němž detektiv Charlie Chan, znalec lidských povah a vášní vyřeší případ vraždy slavné zpěvačky. Čtyři bývalí manželé slavné zpěvačky se sejdou na sídle jednoho z nich, ke schůzce je pozván i známý detektiv. Hostitel, Dudley Ward, první z exmanželů má pro všechny otázku, nevědí-li něco o osudu jeho dítěte, které se narodilo po rozvodu. Na schůzku se dostaví i jejich bývalá manželka se svým nynějším milencem. Vzápětí je však zavražděna. Každý z těchto mužů měl pádný důvod k jejímu zavraždění. Na honolulském detektivovi čínského původu je, aby případ vyřešil. Schopný detektiv se případu ujímá se svou příslovečnou bravurou. Román napsaný ve 30. letech nese všechny znaky tehdejšího pojetí detektivky. (ww.pitaval.cz)

      Strážce klíčů
    • Detektivní román o vyšetřování záhadných vražd uprostřed turistické skupiny cestující kolem světa. Christieovsky laděný román s pátráním po vrahovi uvnitř uzavřené společnosti, kterou tvoří příslušníci vysokých společenských vrstev. Po zranění inspektora ze Scotland Yardu se vHonolulu ujímá pátrání jeho havajský kolega, který dovede vyšetřování ke zdárnému konci a usvědčí vraha, mstícího se na ženách za své milostné zklamání v mládí. (www.pitaval.cz)

      Případu se ujímá Charlie Chan (Obr, 161 s.)
    • Sally Jordanová je honolulská dědička, která je nucena prodat cenný soubor perel. Perly jsou prodané americkému finančníkovi P.J. Maddenovi přes místního klenotníka Alexandra Edena. Plán je doručit perly Maddenovi v New York City. Charlie Chan a klenotníkův syn Bob jsou vybráni, aby perly doručili. Charlie a Bob se mezítím dozví, že došlo ke změně plánů a perly se mají odvézt na Maddenovu farmu v kalifornské poušti. Charlie má podezření a rozhodne se poslat Boba napřed do farmy bez perel zatímco on přijede později přestrojený za čínského kuchaře…

      Čínský papoušek
    • Případu se ujímá Charlie Chan

      • 159 pages
      • 6 hours of reading

      Detektivní román o vyšetřování záhadných vražd uprostřed turistické skupiny cestující kolem světa. Christieovsky laděný román s pátráním po vrahovi uvnitř uzavřené společnosti, kterou tvoří příslušníci vysokých společenských vrstev. Po zranění inspektora ze Scotland Yardu se v Honolulu ujímá pátrání jeho havajský kolega, který dovede vyšetřování ke zdárnému konci a usvědčí vraha, mstícího se na ženách za své milostné zklamání v mládí.

      Případu se ujímá Charlie Chan