Frank Gruber Livres

Set against the backdrop of the Civil War, the story unfolds in Lawrence, Kansas, on August 21, 1863, as tensions rise with the arrival of Quantrell and his band of four hundred fierce men. Key figures, including Senator Jim Lane and abolitionists, face the consequences of their actions as the war they sought comes crashing into their lives. The narrative explores themes of conflict, memory, and the harsh realities of war, capturing a pivotal moment where past decisions lead to a violent reckoning.

The story follows Oliver Quade, an encyclopedia salesman turned unlikely detective in the 1930s. Known as The Human Encyclopedia, he captivates audiences with his vast knowledge, which inadvertently draws him into a series of murder investigations. Quade's unique blend of intellectual prowess and amateur sleuthing sets the stage for intriguing mysteries, showcasing the clash between his scholarly pursuits and the gritty world of crime.

Otis Beagle and Joe Peel operated one of the most unethical private eye businesses in California. To put it briefly, they were unmitigated scoundrels. Blackmail was their special cup of tea--not nailing the blackmailers, but practicing it themselves. When one of their shakedowns failed, they had murder on their hands.