The Lunatic at Large by J. Storer Clouston is a riveting mystery novel that seamlessly combines humor, suspense, and a touch of madness. From the very start, readers are drawn into a world where nothing is as it seems, and where the line between sanity and lunacy is delightfully blurred.
The story revolves around the misadventures of Richard Hadfield, a young, unsuspecting actor who finds himself embroiled in a dark and twisted plot. When he is mistaken for a dangerous lunatic who has escaped from an asylum, Richard's life gets turned upside down. With an array of peculiar characters, including a saucy barmaid, a skeptical detective, and a mysterious millionaire, the stage is set for an uproarious and unpredictable journey.
Clouston's writing style is refreshingly witty and his characterization is spot-on. Richard is a likable and relatable protagonist, caught up in a deeply enigmatic world that keeps readers guessing until the very end. The author's masterful use of humor throughout the novel serves as a counterbalance to the sinister undertones, creating an engaging and entertaining reading experience.
As the plot unfolds, Clouston skillfully weaves together various subplots, adding depth and complexity to the story. Each twist and turn is cleverly executed, leading readers down a labyrinth of surprises. From a seemingly harmless case of mistaken identity, the narrative steadily escalates into a suspenseful cat-and-mouse chase, culminating in a dramatic and satisfying conclusion.
What sets The Lunatic at Large apart from other mysteries of its time is Clouston's ability to seamlessly blend genres. While the book primarily falls under the mystery category, elements of comedy and farce add an extra layer of enjoyment. The dialogue is sharp and humorous, with plenty of snappy one-liners that elicit genuine laughter.
Moreover, Clouston's vivid descriptions effortlessly transport readers to the early 20th-century setting of the novel. From the dimly lit streets of London to the eerie corridors of the asylum, the author's attention to detail creates a rich and atmospheric backdrop for the story to unfold.
If there is one minor critique, it would be that the pacing occasionally lags, particularly during some of the lengthier dialogue exchanges. However, this does not detract from the overall enjoyment of the book.
In conclusion, The Lunatic at Large is a delightful romp through a world of mystery and madness. With its clever plot twists, humorous banter, and an endearing protagonist, J. Storer Clouston delivers a truly entertaining read. Fans of classic mysteries with a touch of humor will undoubtedly find this book a delightful addition to their collection.
First Page:
THE LUNATIC AT LARGE A NOVEL
BY J. STORER CLOUSTON
AUTHORIZED EDITION
BRENTANO'S NEW YORK 1915
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTORY. PART I. CHAPTER I. CHAPTER II. CHAPTER III. CHAPTER IV. CHAPTER V. CHAPTER VI. CHAPTER VII. PART II. CHAPTER I. CHAPTER II. CHAPTER III. CHAPTER IV. CHAPTER V. CHAPTER VI. CHAPTER VII. CHAPTER VIII. CHAPTER IX. PART III. CHAPTER I. CHAPTER II. CHAPTER III. CHAPTER IV. CHAPTER V. CHAPTER VI. CHAPTER VII. PART IV. CHAPTER I. CHAPTER II. CHAPTER III. CHAPTER IV. CHAPTER V. ERRATA.
THE LUNATIC AT LARGE.
INTRODUCTORY.
Into the history of Mr Francis Beveridge, as supplied by the obliging candour of the Baron von Blitzenberg and the notes of Dr Escott, Dr Twiddel and his friend Robert Welsh make a kind of explanatory entry. They most effectually set the ball a rolling, and so the story starts in a small room looking out on a very uninteresting London street.
It was about three o'clock on a November afternoon, that season of fogs and rains and mud, when towns people long for fresh air and hillsides, and country folk think wistfully of the warmth and lights of a city, when nobody is satisfied, and everybody has a cold... Continue reading book >>