“Bat Wing”

is a novel by Sax Rohmer, a British author best known for his series of books featuring the master criminal Dr. Fu Manchu. “Bat Wing” was published in 1921 and tells the story of a young man named Paul Harley who is hired to investigate a series of mysterious murders in the small African town of Doncaster.

The novel begins with the arrival of a wealthy American businessman named Mr. Maurice Vibart in Doncaster. Vibart is in the town to buy diamonds, but he quickly becomes embroiled in a web of intrigue and danger when he witnesses a strange ceremony in the woods outside of town. The ceremony is being performed by a mysterious cult called the Brotherhood of the Bat, and it seems to involve human sacrifice.

Soon after witnessing the ceremony, Vibart is found murdered in his hotel room, and his valuable collection of diamonds is missing. Paul Harley, a private detective who is in town on another case, is hired by Vibart’s fiancée, Miss Valerie Howett, to investigate the murder.

Harley is initially skeptical of the Brotherhood of the Bat, but as he delves deeper into the case, he discovers that the cult is much more than a simple superstition. The Brotherhood of the Bat has powerful members in both Africa and Europe, and they will stop at nothing to protect their secrets.

As Harley investigates, he encounters a cast of intriguing characters, including the enigmatic Madame de Medici, the sinister Dr. Obeid, and the beautiful dancer La Belle Aza. With their help, he uncovers a web of deception and danger that leads him to the heart of the Brotherhood of the Bat.

“Bat Wing” is a classic adventure novel, full of action, intrigue, and exotic settings. Rohmer was a master of the genre, and his writing is evocative and thrilling. The novel is set in a time when the world was still largely unexplored, and Rohmer takes full advantage of this setting to create a sense of mystery and danger.

One of the strengths of the novel is its characterization. Rohmer’s characters are vivid and memorable, with distinct personalities and motivations. Harley, in particular, is a fascinating protagonist, with a dry wit and a keen intelligence. His interactions with the other characters are always engaging and often humorous.

Another strength of the novel is its pacing. Rohmer keeps the plot moving at a brisk pace, with plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged. The novel also has a satisfying resolution, with all the loose ends tied up and the mysteries explained.

Overall, “Bat Wing” is a classic adventure novel that will appeal to fans of the genre. Rohmer’s writing is compelling and his characters are unforgettable. If you are looking for a thrilling and exotic read, “Bat Wing” is definitely worth checking out.