Émile Gaboriau 
Detective Lecoq – Complete Murder Mysteries 
The Widow Lerouge, The Mystery of Orcival, File No. 113, Monsieur Lecoq, The Honor of the Name…

Emile Gaboriau’s ‘Detective Lecoq – Complete Murder Mysteries’ is a seminal work in the detective fiction genre, showcasing the development of the detective novel in the 19th century. Gaboriau’s writing style is characterized by intricate plotlines, meticulous attention to detail, and a keen sense of suspense that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Set in Paris, the stories follow the brilliant detective Monsieur Lecoq as he solves complex crimes using deduction and intuition, paving the way for future fictional detectives. The book provides insight into society and crime in 19th-century France, making it a valuable contribution to the literary world. Emile Gaboriau’s background as a journalist and his fascination with criminal investigations inspired him to create the character of Detective Lecoq. Drawing from real-life criminal cases, Gaboriau crafted compelling narratives that captivated readers and influenced the development of detective fiction as a genre. His meticulous research and attention to detail set him apart as a pioneer of mystery writing. I highly recommend ‘Detective Lecoq – Complete Murder Mysteries’ to readers who enjoy classic detective fiction and are interested in the evolution of the genre. Gaboriau’s intricate plots and engaging characters make this collection a must-read for fans of mystery and crime literature.

About the author

Émile Gaboriau (1832-1873) was a pioneering French writer considered one of the creators of the detective fiction genre. Born in the small town of Saujon, Gaboriau began his career as a law clerk before venturing into journalism and literature. He gained prominence with the publication of ‘L’Affaire Lerouge’ (1866), which introduced the detective Monsieur Lecoq, a character that earned Gaboriau a place in the annals of detective literature. The character, partly inspired by the real-life figure of Eugène François Vidocq, a former criminal turned father of the French detective agency, became a prototype for future literary detectives. Gaboriau’s masterful blend of suspense, detailed police procedural, and the psychological depth of his characters was truly innovative for his time. His series of books featuring Lecoq, including ‘Le Dossier No. 113’ and ‘Les Esclaves de Paris, ‘ solidified his reputation, and he continued to refine the genre with works such as ‘Le Crime d’Orcival.’ ‘Detective Lecoq: Complete Murder Mysteries’ stands as a testament to Gaboriau’s significant contribution to the genre. His novels laid much of the groundwork for the detective stories that followed, influencing writers like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, creator of Sherlock Holmes. Gaboriau’s literary style, marked by intricately plotted stories and an incisive exploration of the Parisian society of his time, has ensured his place as a cornerstone in the development of crime fiction.