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Number Seventeen
This book was converted from its physical edition to the digital format by a community of volunteers. You may find it for free on the web. Purchase of the Kindle edition includes wireless delivery.
194 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1915
112 people are currently reading
120 people want to read
About the author
Louis Tracy
233 books16 followersLouis Tracy (1863 - 1928) was a British journalist, and prolific writer of fiction. He used the pseudonyms Gordon Holmes and Robert Fraser, which were at times shared with M.P. Shiel, a collaborator from the start of the twentieth century.
Around 1884 he became a reporter for a local paper - 'The Northern Echo' at Darlington, circulating in parts of Durham and North Yorkshire; later he worked for papers in Cardiff and Allahabad.
During 1892-1894 he was closely associated with Arthur Harmsworth, in 'The Sun' and 'The Evening News and Post'.
Around 1884 he became a reporter for a local paper - 'The Northern Echo' at Darlington, circulating in parts of Durham and North Yorkshire; later he worked for papers in Cardiff and Allahabad.
During 1892-1894 he was closely associated with Arthur Harmsworth, in 'The Sun' and 'The Evening News and Post'.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
June 16, 2019
Louis Tracy at his best with an author as star witness of a murder victim’s final visitors and Winter and Furneaux, the legendary Scotland Yard detectives, popping in at just the right times to add their findings. It takes all hands on deck to solve this one before the bad guys win.
Though it was published later, the author’s note explains it was written in 1914, which definitely lends an interesting view to Chinese history and which jolted me to look up Chinese history. In 1912 the last empire had fallen and the Republic arose, with China’s first President being named in December 1911 and decades of civil war to follow, with a bit of a Japanese influence to the politics...definitely Tracy was paying attention to modern news.
I also appreciated that one faction of the Chinese was the problem and that others were presented as industrious and good, which wasn’t always the case in old literature.
Though it was published later, the author’s note explains it was written in 1914, which definitely lends an interesting view to Chinese history and which jolted me to look up Chinese history. In 1912 the last empire had fallen and the Republic arose, with China’s first President being named in December 1911 and decades of civil war to follow, with a bit of a Japanese influence to the politics...definitely Tracy was paying attention to modern news.
I also appreciated that one faction of the Chinese was the problem and that others were presented as industrious and good, which wasn’t always the case in old literature.
March 17, 2019
A bit tedious at times. Supposed to be passable substitute for Sherlock, but nope and nope. The tics and characteristics of the detectives became more annoying than anything.
December 16, 2024
I think I may be going insane. Election years do that to me, especially the last few election years. Unlike most of my neighbors I will never own a hat or shirt with the MAGA on the front of it. Never ever. Because of this I find myself in arguments that go nowhere and only serve to the drive me insane worry. And I'm blaming that for the reason that even though I have no particular reason to give this book only two stars other than here it is, on my already read pile, I even have it marked as read, so it seems clear that recently I read it, I remember nothing about it. Not a word, I even reread the first few chapters and nothing sounds familiar, but since it also didn't give me any desire to read the rest and I am already reading something that hopefully I will remember when I'm done, I am for now putting this one away and maybe someday will give it another read. For now I will try to finish and remember the one I am now in the middle of reading. If only I didn't see those stupid signs every time I looked out my window. Maybe I'll build a wall. Happy reading.
June 10, 2021
Serviceable prose, some characterization, decent world building, a bit of a "Yellow Peril" story (but with a bit more balance), no theme. The author had an unfortunate penchant for verbal circumlocution. But not a bad read.
January 8, 2015
Frank Theydon, author, stumbles into a murder mystery when his neighbor at #17 is brutally murdered and he might have seen the murderer. Conflict arrives when the next day he finds the man he is having a luncheon date with, millionaire James Forbes, is the very man he saw enter the apartment bldg. This man has a very beautiful daughter that Theydon is quite interested in and he hesitates to say anything. Now he's being followed by a gray car that is linked to the Chinese Embassy. The murder victim's husband died in China. How much should he tell the Scotland Yard detectives? Is Mr. Forbes guilty or is he in danger too? What will happen to Evelyn Forbes if her father is guilty? Is she in danger too?
Many twists and turns involving an American tourist, kidnapping, shots through the window, a conspiracy involving a Chinese political group, tiny carved ivory skulls, a motorbike chase and the two fun detectives from Scotland yard. Although this book could have probably been a little shorter and still told a grand story I did enjoy this. It was full of action, that left you a little breathless, and great characters. The big question though is, does Theydon get the girl in the end?
Many twists and turns involving an American tourist, kidnapping, shots through the window, a conspiracy involving a Chinese political group, tiny carved ivory skulls, a motorbike chase and the two fun detectives from Scotland yard. Although this book could have probably been a little shorter and still told a grand story I did enjoy this. It was full of action, that left you a little breathless, and great characters. The big question though is, does Theydon get the girl in the end?
June 9, 2023
A love story but, China.
This novel is a precious gem, lost in the clamor of the 21st century. It is “politically incorrect” “anti-woke” and any critics of the day can look to today’s standards to criticize it. In the tradition of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and other writers from 100 yrs ago, this was enjoyable. It speaks to concerns still present in 2023. What do people with malign intentions consider when they seek to become “citizens” in the free world? Is America and Europe immune from the stuff Mr. Tracy wrote about over 100 yrs ago? I suppose that during the next 20 yrs or so, novels like this might be banned from libraries across the Western world. Shame on us if that happens. In the meantime, I highly recommend this for people that understand history and are not afraid of the lessons it can teach us.
This novel is a precious gem, lost in the clamor of the 21st century. It is “politically incorrect” “anti-woke” and any critics of the day can look to today’s standards to criticize it. In the tradition of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and other writers from 100 yrs ago, this was enjoyable. It speaks to concerns still present in 2023. What do people with malign intentions consider when they seek to become “citizens” in the free world? Is America and Europe immune from the stuff Mr. Tracy wrote about over 100 yrs ago? I suppose that during the next 20 yrs or so, novels like this might be banned from libraries across the Western world. Shame on us if that happens. In the meantime, I highly recommend this for people that understand history and are not afraid of the lessons it can teach us.
April 1, 2015
An exciting, suspenseful mystery, set in the rainy town of London. Involved is a dashing young man, Theydon, a beautiful girl, two detectives, and the families who share the same coincidence in the murders.. Having been to China. Young Theydon is thrown into it all, the night he leaves a theater, on a drizzly London night.
September 13, 2022
A Scotland Yard Detectives White and Furneaux mystery. Each mystery in this series has the two detectives initially viewed as incompetents, especially Furneaux, by main characters who feel they are able to manipulate and hide things from these two only be continually surprised to find these to 3, 4 5 steps ahead of them continuously! Furneaux" character elevates the story to another level.
Londoner Frank Theydon's, mid 20's up coming author/writer, next door neighbor is murdered late at night and he is a witness in that he heard someone come up the stairs, enter #17 and then leave again. However, he actually knows who that person is and has interacted with him. He is withholding information from White & Furneaux because the man has a very attractive daughter who Theydon is attracted to.
However, things are also more complicated a number of things which Theydon finds himself in the middle of whether he likes it or not: an American tourist, kidnapping, shots through the window, a conspiracy involving a Chinese political group, tiny carved ivory skulls and a motorbike chase!
Londoner Frank Theydon's, mid 20's up coming author/writer, next door neighbor is murdered late at night and he is a witness in that he heard someone come up the stairs, enter #17 and then leave again. However, he actually knows who that person is and has interacted with him. He is withholding information from White & Furneaux because the man has a very attractive daughter who Theydon is attracted to.
However, things are also more complicated a number of things which Theydon finds himself in the middle of whether he likes it or not: an American tourist, kidnapping, shots through the window, a conspiracy involving a Chinese political group, tiny carved ivory skulls and a motorbike chase!
September 9, 2020
This was very well written, although modern readers will find it very dated. If a reader enjoys writing from the late 19th century / early 20th century they will enjoy this book. The book is a light adventure / suspense / romance that moves rapidly along. The plot is well developed for the purposes of the storyline and the characters are sufficiently developed for this type story. I recommend for light reading.
November 22, 2020
Tracy has a brilliant turn of phrase. He is not quite as beautifully written as Sabatini, but who is? Louis Tracy novels are fun and Charles Furneaux is a great character. It is also interesting that while Winter and Furneaux are the recurring characters in several novels, they are rarely the main characters. They are supporting actors in these romance mysteries. It is a great departure and a well enjoyed one from the plethora of crime novels that focus too heavily on the detectives.
March 20, 2021
Wonderful listening
Due to eye issues Alexa reads to me. This Is a will written romantic international thriller mystery in London. The characters are interesting and will developed. The story line is fast moving as murder at apartment seventeen is the beginning. The characters race across London trying to keep murder of happening again to the conclusion. I would recommend this novella to readers of mysteries. Enjoy reading 🔰2021👑🎩
Due to eye issues Alexa reads to me. This Is a will written romantic international thriller mystery in London. The characters are interesting and will developed. The story line is fast moving as murder at apartment seventeen is the beginning. The characters race across London trying to keep murder of happening again to the conclusion. I would recommend this novella to readers of mysteries. Enjoy reading 🔰2021👑🎩
January 16, 2025
A tip-top mystery involving a young man who believes he's witnessed the murders leaving his neighbors apartment. The complications grow when he realizes it may be the father of the girl he is deeply in love with...
Scotland yard gets involved, and there's plenty of suspense and danger. A good old, creepy book!
Scotland yard gets involved, and there's plenty of suspense and danger. A good old, creepy book!
May 21, 2020
Enjoyed the first part more than the ending, but it’s still worthwhile for fans of early 1900s mystery/adventure stories.
As is often the case, the stereotypes of women and racial groups can grate the nerves.
As is often the case, the stereotypes of women and racial groups can grate the nerves.
May 18, 2021
A classic detective mystery, reminding me of the Dr. Thorndyke mysteries, with lots of adventure and narrated by a young lover, but with plenty of insight into the brilliant detective mind. Also full of casual racism, which keeps the stars lower than they might otherwise be.
January 24, 2024
I had read other Louis Tracy books years ago and enjoyed them. I felt like a good old-fashioned mystery. This was fine but not particularly mysterious nor full of adventure. And the romance was rather dull. Not his best novel.
October 30, 2020
On a scale of 1 to 17...
The book is a 17. This book has some good characters and some fun. Loved the 2 opposite detectives. Enjoy.
The book is a 17. This book has some good characters and some fun. Loved the 2 opposite detectives. Enjoy.
February 3, 2021
In 17 Innesmore Mansions the body of Mrs Lester is discovered. Her neighbour Francis Theydon saw, he believes, a Mr Forbes leave the apartment around the time she was killed. Chief Inspector Winter and D.I. Furneaux investigate, as they and Theydon become embroiled in a Chinese conspiracy.
An enjoyable story
Originally written in 1915
An enjoyable story
Originally written in 1915
September 23, 2021
Highly recommend this great mystery .. enjoyed reading it .. kept me guessing all the way through ..
wonderful character development .. will read more of this author ..
wonderful character development .. will read more of this author ..
April 8, 2024
.
This has an excellent start but bogs itself down in contemporary Chinese/Japanese politics and mushy romance. I found most of it quite dull.
There is little by way of detection from Winter and Furneaux as, essentially,it is a light and occasionally amusing thriller. There is a bit of rushing around in trains and cars and a some attempts at abduction. The ending is abrupt and one suspects that Tracy pasted himself into a corner and really could not work out a more interesting conclusion.
Perhaps what is most striking is the lack of any sense that the “ hero”,Theydon, was wrong to attempt to mislead the detectives about what he knew or that Forbes’ financial involvement in Asian politics and finance was morally dubious.Autre temps, autres moeurs!
2.5stars
This has an excellent start but bogs itself down in contemporary Chinese/Japanese politics and mushy romance. I found most of it quite dull.
There is little by way of detection from Winter and Furneaux as, essentially,it is a light and occasionally amusing thriller. There is a bit of rushing around in trains and cars and a some attempts at abduction. The ending is abrupt and one suspects that Tracy pasted himself into a corner and really could not work out a more interesting conclusion.
Perhaps what is most striking is the lack of any sense that the “ hero”,Theydon, was wrong to attempt to mislead the detectives about what he knew or that Forbes’ financial involvement in Asian politics and finance was morally dubious.Autre temps, autres moeurs!
2.5stars
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August 26, 2024Predictable and Boring.
August 26, 2025
Dated references to "Chinamen" and lots of stereotypes.
December 16, 2024
I think I may be going insane. Election years do that to me, especially the last few election years. Unlike most of my neighbors I will never own a hat or shirt with the MAGA on the front of it. Never ever. Because of this I find myself in arguments that go nowhere and only serve to the drive me insane worry. And I'm blaming that for the reason that even though I have no particular reason to give this book only two stars other than here it is, on my already read pile, I even have it marked as read, so it seems clear that recently I read it, I remember nothing about it. Not a word, I even reread the first few chapters and nothing sounds familiar, but since it also didn't give me any desire to read the rest and I am already reading something that hopefully I will remember when I'm done, I am for now putting this one away and maybe someday will give it another read. For now I will try to finish and remember the one I am now in the middle of reading. If only I didn't see those stupid signs every time I looked out my window. Maybe I'll build a wall. Happy reading.
December 17, 2018
This book was great right up until just before the halfway mark, when it suddenly took a turn into Yellow Peril territory. That aspect grew and grew until it took over the book - and I lost all taste for it. You might fare better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2020
Old but Very Good Read
This was so unexpectedly good, that I will seek out more from this old English writer. I just downloaded 24 more books from this author. All currently free on Amazon.
This was so unexpectedly good, that I will seek out more from this old English writer. I just downloaded 24 more books from this author. All currently free on Amazon.
January 7, 2016
I gave my students readers for them to speed up their reading comprehension and as a teacher, I had to finish reading this in just a day! Doooooh! But it was clearly a fun story to read.
February 22, 2016
a peek at another era
The story, set in London , gives a wonderful glimpse into pre-WWII life. The people are skillfully drawn and the action is well-paced.
The story, set in London , gives a wonderful glimpse into pre-WWII life. The people are skillfully drawn and the action is well-paced.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews