Theodore Roscoe Knihy

Two of the leading diplomats of Europe, sitting across a dinner table in a locked room, both shot to death. That was the spark that kindled the war flames in the summer of 1936. The two had met in the Teuton capital to discuss a secret matter of vital importance. No one, not even the occupants of the press room next door, had heard the shots fired, yet there the two men were, riddled with bullets. Teutonic police, after a quick investigation, announced that the Esperenchman had started the duel. Excited Teutons began shouting, "Down with Esperance!" Mobilization began.Of those reporters whose room was so close to the mystery chamber, there were some who did not believe they had killed each other. John Keats, the American, was one. At the height of the excitement, two attempts were made on the life of Keats, and another was murdered. The surviving reporters, seeing that war was inevitable, took the first train for the Esperench capital. But war was inevitable: can Keats put a stop to it?

Set in exotic locales, this collection features nine thrilling East of Suez stories by Theodore Roscoe, renowned for his captivating narratives. Among these tales is the novel "Bentfinger," which follows a mysterious hooded killer who eludes law enforcement from Scotland Yard to Cairo, leaving behind a cryptic clue. These stories epitomize high adventure in pulp fiction, showcasing Roscoe's talent for weaving suspenseful plots that have captivated readers over the years.

Set against the backdrop of the haunting Chateau de Feu in the Red Zone, this story weaves eerie legends from the Battle of the Somme into a gripping narrative. Bill Shepherd, the chateau's heir, is drawn into a web of mystery after discovering a murdered peasant. As a storm gathers, a diverse group—including an Italian doctor and a Russian professor—arrives, leading to chilling revelations. The appearance of ghostly organ music forces them to confront the unsettling boundary between the living and the dead, blending wartime horror with supernatural suspense.

The book features the thrilling escapades of Peter Scarlet, a curio hunter, and his companion, Bradshaw, a naturalist. Known for their individual tales, they also unite in several action-packed adventures set against the backdrop of the Orient. This volume compiles the last five stories from popular pulp magazines, including "Tarantula Tower" and "Port of Missing Heads," showcasing Theodore Roscoe's talent for crafting engaging treasure hunts and captivating narratives in the world of pulp fiction.