The Secret House By Edgar Wallace

The Secret House By Edgar Wallace

“The Secret House”

is a classic mystery novel written by Edgar Wallace, one of the most popular and prolific British authors of the early 20th century. First published in 1919, the book tells the story of a wealthy businessman who discovers a hidden room in his home that leads to a web of secrets and conspiracies.

The novel opens with the introduction of Mr. Reeder, a detective who works for the Public Prosecutor’s office in London. Mr. Reeder is a mild-mannered, unassuming man who has a knack for solving complex cases through his deep understanding of human nature. He is called to investigate a case involving a wealthy businessman named Sir George Carey, who has found a hidden room in his house that seems to have been used for nefarious purposes.

Sir George is a successful businessman who has made his fortune in the shipping industry. He is a self-made man who has worked hard to achieve his success and is known for his honesty and integrity. However, his discovery of the secret room in his house begins to unravel his world. The room is filled with mysterious objects, including a revolver, a pile of banknotes, and a book containing a list of names. Sir George is convinced that someone has been using the room to carry out illegal activities, but he has no idea who or why.

As Mr. Reeder begins to investigate the case, he discovers that there are many people who have a motive for wanting to harm Sir George. These include his business rivals, his employees, and even his own family members. However, the more Mr. Reeder delves into the case, the more he realizes that the secret room is just the tip of the iceberg. There are deeper secrets and conspiracies at play that go all the way to the top of the British government.

One of the most interesting aspects of “The Secret House” is the character of Mr. Reeder himself. Unlike many other detectives in literature, he is not a hard-boiled detective who relies on brute force or violence to solve his cases. Instead, he uses his keen intelligence and understanding of human nature to unravel the mystery. He is also a deeply sympathetic character, and readers can’t help but root for him as he works tirelessly to bring justice to the victims.

Another strength of the novel is its vivid depiction of London in the early 20th century. Edgar Wallace was a master of creating atmospheric settings, and the city comes alive in the pages of the book. From the bustling streets to the seedy back alleys, readers are transported to a bygone era and get a glimpse of what life was like in the early days of the modern world.

Overall, “The Secret House” is a gripping mystery novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. With its rich characters, intricate plot, and evocative setting, it is a classic example of the detective genre and a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery. Whether you’re a fan of Edgar Wallace or just looking for a great page-turner, this book is sure to satisfy.

One of the most intriguing aspects of “The Secret House” is the way that Edgar Wallace weaves together various threads of the plot to create a complex web of mystery and intrigue. At its heart, the book is a classic “whodunit” mystery, with Mr. Reeder trying to figure out who is responsible for the crimes committed in Sir George’s hidden room. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that there are many layers to the conspiracy, and that the stakes are much higher than anyone initially suspected.

One of the key themes of the book is the corrupting influence of power and money. Sir George Carey is a wealthy and successful businessman, but he is not immune to the lure of illicit activities. As Mr. Reeder uncovers more and more evidence, it becomes clear that Sir George has been involved in a number of shady deals and illegal transactions, and that his reputation for honesty and integrity may be a façade. Similarly, many of the other characters in the book are driven by greed and ambition, and are willing to do whatever it takes to get ahead.

Another interesting aspect of the book is the way that it reflects the political and social climate of the time. “The Secret House” was published shortly after the end of World War I, a time of great upheaval and uncertainty in Europe. The book is set against this backdrop, and reflects many of the concerns and anxieties of the period. For example, there are frequent references to espionage and political intrigue, as well as a sense of unease about the direction that British society is heading in.

Despite its dark subject matter, “The Secret House” is a highly enjoyable read, thanks in large part to Edgar Wallace’s engaging writing style. Wallace was a master of the thriller genre, and his prose is fast-paced and highly readable. He is also adept at creating memorable characters, from the enigmatic Mr. Reeder to the ruthless villains who populate the book. Additionally, the book is full of twists and turns, and readers will find themselves constantly second-guessing their assumptions and trying to stay one step ahead of the plot.

In conclusion, “The Secret House” is a classic mystery novel that remains as engaging and entertaining today as it was when it was first published over a century ago. With its intricate plot, rich characters, and vivid setting, it is a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone who loves a good page-turner. Whether you’re a seasoned reader of detective fiction or a newcomer to the genre, this book is sure to keep you guessing until the very end.