Monsieur Lecoq

Rating:
Summary: Sherlock Holmes read it
Review: Monsieur Lecoq stumbles upon the case that will make his career, if he is able to expose the identity of a murderer whose intelligence and savoir faire exceeds that of his pursuers. A fledgling police officer with high aspirations, Lecoq struggles with rivalry and jealously within the police force as well as his own inexperience. Unlike much early detective fiction, this novel shows its sleuth in his humble beginnings, dramatizing the making of the detective. Lecoq's criminal past and status as policeman make him an interesting detective figure. Although the novel is a little lengthy, the pace is energetic. The twists and turns of the plot and the foibles of Lecoq and his assistant keep the reader engaged. Those who enjoy classic detective fiction and a good plot (and don't mind a lengthy read without closure), and who are interested in the stories that influenced writers such as Arthur Conan Doyle, will appreciate this early work.

Rating:
Summary: Sherlock Holmes read it
Review: Monsieur Lecoq stumbles upon the case that will make his career, if he is able to expose the identity of a murderer whose intelligence and savoir faire exceeds that of his pursuers. A fledgling police officer with high aspirations, Lecoq struggles with rivalry and jealously within the police force as well as his own inexperience. Unlike much early detective fiction, this novel shows its sleuth in his humble beginnings, dramatizing the making of the detective. Lecoq's criminal past and status as policeman make him an interesting detective figure. Although the novel is a little lengthy, the pace is energetic. The twists and turns of the plot and the foibles of Lecoq and his assistant keep the reader engaged. Those who enjoy classic detective fiction and a good plot (and don't mind a lengthy read without closure), and who are interested in the stories that influenced writers such as Arthur Conan Doyle, will appreciate this early work.