Ernest Bramah

THE GREATEST BRITISH DETECTIVES - Ultimate Collection is a masterfully curated anthology that delves into the rich tradition of British detective fiction. Encompassing over 270 narratives, this collection offers an eclectic mix of murder mysteries, suspense thrillers, and riveting crime stories, each crafted with intricate plotlines and unexpected twists that hallmark the genre. Readers will find themselves ensnared by the elaborate mysteries and rich atmospherics, enhanced through evocative illustrations that breathe new life into timeless tales. With diverse literary styles ranging from Gothic suspense to polished London noir, this anthology presents itself as an indispensable compendium for both the avid enthusiast and the casual explorer of detective fiction. The collection gathers an impressive assembly of literary figures, each of whom has made indelible contributions to the genres evolution. Authors like Arthur Conan Doyle and G. K. Chesterton bridge classic and modern sensibilities, while others such as J.S. Fletcher and Annie Haynes offer unique insights into early 20th-century society through their storytelling. In this compendium, authors from the Golden Age of Detective Fiction forge narratives that reflect contemporary historical and social issues, ultimately providing readers with a nuanced view of the ever-evolving human condition under the lens of crime and mystery. For scholars and casual readers alike, this anthology offers an unparalleled opportunity to traverse the varied terrain of British detective fiction. Exploring these narratives encourages deeper understanding of the thematic and stylistic innovations that have shaped the genre. Through the voices and visions of these diverse authors, THE GREATEST BRITISH DETECTIVES collection affords a rewarding educational journey, unlocking countless insights into societal contexts, character development, and narrative structure. Readers are invited to immerse themselves in this collection and experience the dialogue that these legendary storytellers have sustained across generations.

Ling was the youngest of three sons, and from his youth upwards proved to be of a mild and studious disposition. Most of his time was spent in reading the sacred books, and at an early age he found the worship of apes to be repulsive to his gentle nature, and resolved to break through the venerable traditions of his family by devoting his time to literary pursuits, and presenting himself for the public examinations at Canton. In this his resolution was strengthened by a rumour that an army of bowmen was shortly to be raised from the Province in which he lived, so that if he remained he would inevitably be forced into an occupation which was even more distasteful to him than the one he was leaving.

Max Carrados is one of the most unusual detectives in all fiction. He is blind - and yet he has developed his other faculties to such an amazing degree that they more than compensate for his lack of sight.'Lose one sense and the others, touch, taste, smell, hearing improve...with a little dedicated training.' Carrados can read a newspaper headline with the touch of his fingers, detect a man wearing a false moustache because 'he carries a five yard aura of spirit gum' and shoot a villain by aiming at the sound of his beating heart. Assisted by his sharp-eyed manservant, Parker, Carrados is the mystery-solver par excellence. Here is a collection of the best of Max Carrados, a set of stories featuring a series of baffling puzzles to challenge the greatest of detectives. They are written by Ernest Bramah with great wit, style and panache. This is vintage crime fiction at its bes

The classic crime novel featuring blind detective Max Carrados, whose popularity rivalled that of Sherlock Holmes, complete with a new introduction and an extra short story. In his dark little curio shop Julian Joolby is weaving an extravagant scheme to smash the financial machinery of the world by flooding the Oriental market with forged banknotes. But this monster of wickedness has not reckoned on Max Carrados, the suave and resourceful investigator whose visual impairment gives him heightened powers of perception that ordinary detectives overlook. Max Carrados was a blind detective whose stories by Ernest Bramah appeared from 1914 alongside Sherlock Holmes in the Strand Magazine, in which they often had top billing. Described by George Orwell as among the only detective stories since Poe that are worth re-reading, the 25 stories were collected in three hugely popular volumes, culminating in a full-length novel, The Bravo of London (1934), in which Carrados engages in a battle of wits against a fiendish plot that threatens to overthrow civilisation itself. This Detective Club classic is introduced by Tony Medawar, who investigates the impact on the genre of Bramahs blind detective and the relative obscurity of this, the only Max Carrados novel. This edition also includes the sole uncollected short story The Bunch of Violets. As well as on the page, the Max Carrados stories have been a firm favourite on television and film, played over the years by (among others) Robert Stephens, Simon Callow and Pip Torrens, and read on audio by Arthur Darvill and Stephen Fry.

Ernest Bramahs *Ultimate Collection: 20+ Novels & Short Stories in One Volume* encapsulates the essence of early 20th-century British literature, showcasing his masterful storytelling and wit. Within this compendium, readers are invited into a labyrinth of intrigue, satire, and philosophical musings, reflecting the social tapestry of the time. Bramahs unique narrative style, characterized by its clever dialogue and intricate plots, seamlessly combines elements of mystery and humor, inviting readers to engage with thought-provoking themes such as human nature and morality. The collection not only highlights his famed characters like the enigmatic Kai Lung but also offers a rich exploration of diverse genres, capturing the readers imagination through vivid prose and intricate character development. Ernest Bramah, a contemporary of such literary giants as P.G. Wodehouse and H.G. Wells, drew inspiration from the cultural shifts during the Victorian and Edwardian eras. His background in journalism and interest in Eastern philosophies informed his writing, allowing him to infuse his narratives with a blend of Eastern mystique and Western pragmatism. This eclectic influence is evident in his ability to intertwine humor and profound observation, resulting in works that resonate with timeless relevance. This edition is a quintessential addition for any enthusiast of classic literature. By delving into *Ultimate Collection*, readers will not only appreciate Bramahs clever craftsmanship but also gain insights into a pivotal era of literary history. This compilation promises to enthrall both new audiences and longtime fans alike, making it a remarkable resource for anyone seeking to explore the depth of Bramahs literary genius.

Parkinson, the unquenchable stickler for decorum, paused after receiving the general instructions for the day just long enough to create a sense of hesitation. Mr Carrados, merely concerned with an after-breakfast cigarette, divined the position with his usual unerring instinct.Yes, Parkinson, he remarked encouragingly; is there anything going on?A clumsily-folded newspaper enabled the punctilious attendant to salve his conscience as he returned slowly to the table. He shook out the printed sheets into a more orderly arrangement by way of covering the irregularity.I understand, sir, he replied in the perfectly controlled respectful voice that accorded with his deliberate actions I understand that this mornings foreign intelligence is of a disquieting nature.The blind mans hand went unfalteringly to an open copy of The Times lying by him and there a single deft finger touched off the headlines with easy certainty."On the Brink of War.""Threatened German Mobilization", he read aloud. "The Duty of Great Britain." Yes, I dont think that "disquieting" over-states the position.No, sir. So I gathered from what I had already heard. That is why I thought it better to speak to you about a trifling incident that has come under my notice, sir.

Commentator: Hilaire Belloc

Contents: / The Coin of Dionysius / The Knights Cross Signal Problem / The Tragedy at Brookbend Cottage / The Last Exploit of Harry the Actor

The Mirror of Kong Ho is a collection of slyly hilarious stories told in letters home from Kong Ho, a Chinese national who is visiting London.

Ling was the youngest of three sons, and from his youth upwards proved to be of a mild and studious disposition. Most of his time was spent in reading the sacred books, and at an early age he found the worship of apes to be repulsive to his gentle nature, and resolved to break through the venerable traditions of his family by devoting his time to literary pursuits, and presenting himself for the public examinations at Canton. In this his resolution was strengthened by a rumour that an army of bowmen was shortly to be raised from the Province in which he lived, so that if he remained he would inevitably be forced into an occupation which was even more distasteful to him than the one he was leaving.

It was eight oclock at night and raining, scarcely a time when a business so limited in its clientele as that of a coin dealer could hope to attract any customer, but a light was still showing in the small shop that bore over its window the name of Baxter, and in the even smaller office at the back the proprietor himself sat reading the latest Pall Mall. His enterprise seemed to be justified, for presently the door bell gave its announcement, and throwing down his paper Mr Baxter went forward.As a matter of fact the dealer had been expecting someone and his manner as he passed into the shop was unmistakably suggestive of a caller of importance. But at the first glance towards his visitor the excess of deference melted out of his bearing, leaving the urbane, self-possessed shopman in the presence of the casual customer."Mr Baxter, I think?" said the latter. He had laid aside his dripping umbrella and was unbuttoning overcoat and coat to reach an inner pocket. "You hardly remember me, I suppose? Mr Carlyletwo years ago I took up a case for you""To be sure. Mr Carlyle, the private detective""Inquiry agent," corrected Mr Carlyle precisely."Well," smiled Mr Baxter, "for that matter I am a coin dealer and not an antiquarian or a numismatist. Is there anything in that way that I can do for you?"

IN offering a series of stories which continue the adventures of a group of characters already introduced to the reading public, a writer is inevitably at a certain disadvantage. In contriving their first appearance he has been able to select both the occasion and the moment which lend themselves most effectively to his plan. He has begun at the beginning--or, at least, at what, so far as you and he and the tale he has to tell are concerned, must be accepted as the beginning. Buttonholing you at the intersection of these three lines of destiny he has, in effect, exclaimed: My dear Reader! the very man I wished to see. I want to introduce rather a remarkable character to you--Max Carrados, whom you see approaching. You will notice that he is blind--quite blind; but so far from that crippling his interests in life or his energies, it has merely impelled him to develop those senses which in most of us lie half dormant and practically unused. Thus you will understand that while he may be at a disadvantage when you are at an advantage, he is at an advantage when you are at a disadvantage. The alert, slightly spoffish gentleman with the knowing look, who accompanies him, is his friend Carlyle. He has a private inquiry business now; formerly he was a solicitor, but... (here the voice becomes discreetly inaudible)... and having run up across Carrados again... And so on.

In Kai Lungs Golden Hours Ernest Bramah develops his own unique versions of classic Chinese folktales - and creates a few entirely new ones.

Jorge Luis Borges escribió sobre este singular autor británico: «Sus libros son de naturaleza paródica: fingen ser traducciones del chino y su desaforada perfección logró en 1922 un elogio incondicio

This is a collection of Kai Lungs entertaining tales, told professionally in the market places as he travelled about - sometimes to occupy and divert the minds of his enemies when they were intent on

Max Carrados, un jeune rentier, a toujours rêvé de devenir détective.Quand Louis Carlyle, un ami d’autrefois, désormais enquêteur privé, fait appel à ses connaissances en numismatique dans le cadre d