Earl Derr Biggers Books

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.

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 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.

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.

Set against the backdrop of San Francisco, the story unfolds a gripping mystery involving a series of murders that shake the city. As the protagonist delves into the investigation, they uncover dark secrets and hidden connections among the victims. The narrative explores themes of betrayal, justice, and the complexities of human relationships, all while capturing the vibrant and often perilous essence of urban life. The intertwining of personal stakes with a broader societal commentary adds depth to this thrilling tale.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.