Edgar Wallace 
The Twelve African Novels (A Collection) 
Sanders of the River, The Keepers of the King’s Peace, The People of the River, The River of Stars…

In ‚The Twelve African Novels, ‚ Edgar Wallace expertly crafts a diverse collection of stories that delve into the vibrant and complex landscapes of Africa. Each novel showcases Wallace’s unique literary style, characterized by vivid imagery, sharp dialogues, and intricate plot structures. Through these narratives, readers are taken on a journey through various African societies, offering a nuanced portrayal of culture, politics, and human relationships. Set within a rich literary context of colonial and post-colonial Africa, Wallace’s work stands out for its exploration of themes such as identity, power dynamics, and the impact of historical legacies on contemporary society. As an acclaimed British writer and journalist, Edgar Wallace’s career spanned a wide range of genres, including detective fiction and thrillers. His keen interest in Africa and its people likely fueled his decision to compile ‚The Twelve African Novels, ‚ showcasing his deep understanding and appreciation of the continent’s complexities. Wallace’s careful research and attention to detail shine through in each of the carefully curated novels, making them a compelling read for anyone interested in African literature and cultural studies. I highly recommend ‚The Twelve African Novels‘ to readers who enjoy thought-provoking narratives that provide a multi-faceted perspective on Africa. Wallace’s expert storytelling and compelling characters make this collection a must-read for those looking to explore the diverse literary traditions of the continent.

Über den Autor

Richard Horatio Edgar Wallace (1875–1932) was a prolific British writer, whose literary career spanned various genres, including crime, adventure, and suspense. His early life experiences, notably in South Africa during the Second Boer War, as a war correspondent for Reuters and the Daily Mail, significantly influenced his later works. Wallace’s keen interest in the exotic and the criminal underworld materialized in an extensive body of work comprising over 170 novels, 18 stage plays, and numerous articles and short stories. Among his notable collections stands ‚The Twelve African Novels, ‚ which reflects his fascination with the African continent and incorporates a vivid depiction of its landscapes and colonial dynamics. Wallace’s writing is marked by a rapid pace, suspenseful plots, and an emphasis on action over psychological depth, a recipe that assured his popularity during the early twentieth century. Credited with creating the ‚Bulldog Drummond‘ novels as well as the iconic character ‚King Kong, ‚ Wallace’s influence extended into cinematic adaptations. Despite some criticism for perpetuating colonial stereotypes, his works remain an important part of popular British literature’s fabric, illustrating the era’s predilections and biases. Edgar Wallace’s literary style served as a precursor to modern thriller and crime genres, leaving an indelible mark on the literary world with his extensive and entertaining oeuvre.