Famous story of a homicidal maniac and how his crimes prey on the minds of the respectable couple with whom he lodges.

The novel that inspired the Hitchcock classic.

Based on the nineteenth century’s most infamous crime, a novel that asks, How do you recognize a serial killer? One damp November evening on the Marylebone Road, a couple sits in silence. Though their thoughts are the same—money and the lack thereof—the time has long since passed when Mr. and Mrs. Bunting could find comfort in sharing their anxieties with each other. Now every word is a reproach—a reminder of luxuries forsaken and keepsakes pawned. Retired servants, the Buntings sunk every last shilling into their London lodging house. Now they are trapped. The rooms are empty, the rent is due, and ruin awaits. When the paper boys’ cry of “Horrible Murder! Murder at St. Pancras!” rings out in the street, Mr. Bunting risks his wife’s ire to buy the Evening Standard. The latest exploits of the killer known as the Avenger will give him something to think about besides his own misery. Just when he is settling in with the paper, there is a knock at the door. Mr. Sleuth enters, seeking “quiet rooms” to rent. He bears no luggage, save one nearly empty leather bag, and his demeanor is odd, to say least. The beautiful sitting room on the second floor interests him not at all, but the obsolete gas stove on the underfurnished third floor is exactly what he has been looking for. Best of all, he wants to pay a month’s rent in advance. Mr. and Mrs. Bunting believe that the new lodger is a godsend until a dark fear grips their hearts. Could the strange Mr. Sleuth be the Avenger in disguise? And if he is, can they afford to know? Inspired by the Jack the Ripper murders and the basis for Alfred Hitchock’s first thriller, The Lodger is a masterpiece of psychological suspense. This ebook has been professionally proofread to ensure accuracy and readability on all devices.

In "The Collected Works of Marie Belloc Lowndes," readers are invited to explore the nuanced literary tapestry woven by one of the early 20th century's most prolific authors. This compilation includes a rich array of novels, short stories, and essays characterized by their psychological depth, intricate characterizations, and deft narrative techniques. Lowndes, often recognized for her atmospheric prose and suspenseful storytelling, captures the complexities of human emotions and societal norms against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world, making her work resonate with the literary movements of her time, particularly the fin de si√®cle and early modernism. Marie Belloc Lowndes, a prominent figure born in 1868 into a literary family'—her brother being the celebrated novelist Hilaire Belloc'—shaped her unique voice through her experiences and keen observations of the social mores of her era. As a woman writer navigating a male-dominated literary landscape, she faced both challenges and inspirations, using her pen to explore themes of identity, class, morality, and the intricacies of human relationships, particularly in the context of the British society during and after the Victorian period. This collection is a must-read for enthusiasts of classic literature and Gothic suspense. Lowndes's ability to intertwine psychological tension with accessible prose offers a rewarding experience. Whether you are discovering her work for the first time or revisiting her profound insights, these collected writings promise to engage and provoke thought long after the final page is turned. In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience: - A comprehensive Introduction outlines these selected works' unifying features, themes, or stylistic evolutions. - A Historical Context section situates the works in their broader era—social currents, cultural trends, and key events that underpin their creation. - A concise Synopsis (Selection) offers an accessible overview of the included texts, helping readers navigate plotlines and main ideas without revealing critical twists. - A unified Analysis examines recurring motifs and stylistic hallmarks across the collection, tying the stories together while spotlighting the different work's strengths. - Reflection questions inspire deeper contemplation of the author's overarching message, inviting readers to draw connections among different texts and relate them to modern contexts. - Lastly, our hand‐picked Memorable Quotes distill pivotal lines and turning points, serving as touchstones for the collection's central themes.

In "From out the Vasty Deep," Marie Belloc Lowndes delves into the intricate world of human psychology and moral ambiguity set against a backdrop of Victorian social mores. This novel employs a rich and evocative prose style, blending gothic elements with a sharp psychological insight, mirroring the period's fascination with the darker aspects of human nature. Through an engaging narrative and meticulously crafted characters, Lowndes explores themes of obsession, guilt, and the often-blurred line between sanity and madness, encapsulating the Victorian anxiety surrounding the unknown depths of the human mind. Marie Belloc Lowndes, an English novelist known for her keen understanding of character and setting, had a life steeped in literature and journalism. Born into a prominent family with literary ties, her experiences traveling and writing about crime in the early 20th century influenced her narrative style and thematic choices. Her works often reflect a profound awareness of societal norms and the complexities of morality, making her an essential voice of her time and a precursor to modern psychological thrillers. This compelling novel is recommended for those intrigued by the interplay of psychological tension and social critique. Readers who appreciate richly woven narratives that challenge moral certainties will find themselves captivated by Lowndes' keen observations and her exploration of the human psyche, making "From out the Vasty Deep" a timeless exploration of burgeoning fears and desires.

In 'The Red Cross Barge,' Marie Belloc Lowndes weaves a compelling narrative set against the backdrop of World War I, exploring themes of sacrifice, hope, and the human spirit amidst conflict. Written in a poignant, yet accessible prose style, the novel juxtaposes the grim realities of war with the compassion and camaraderie of those involved in humanitarian efforts. Lowndes deftly crafts her characters, blending realism with moments of introspection and moral dilemmas, reflecting the complexities of human emotions in dire circumstances. The literary context of the time reveals a shift in perspectives towards war, capturing both the horrors and the moments of grace that arise in times of crisis. Marie Belloc Lowndes was a prominent writer of the early 20th century, known for her insightful explorations of social issues. With her background as a journalist and a voice for women's rights, she was deeply influenced by the tumultuous events of her era, which undoubtedly shaped her portrayal of life during wartime. Lowndes'Äô genuine concern for humanity and her desire to shed light on the lives affected by conflict fuel the emotional weight of this novel. I highly recommend 'The Red Cross Barge' to readers interested in historical fiction that illuminates the resilience of the human spirit. This novel not only serves as an engaging story but also provokes thought about the role of compassion in the face of adversity, making it a poignant and relevant read for contemporary audiences.