A Prince of Swindlers

"A Prince of Swindlers" by Guy Boothby is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the intriguing life of Simon Carne, a masterful con artist who manages to infiltrate high society in London while executing a series of elaborate swindles. The narrative opens with a reflection on the events that have led to a well-known series of thefts, establishing a world where charm and deception intermingle with the opulence of the elite. At the start of the book, we are introduced to the protagonist, Simon Carne, who recounts how he innocently introduced a notorious adventurer into London society, setting the stage for a wave of high-profile crimes. The chapter details Carne's previous life as a Viceroy and his subsequent journey to England, where he navigates through social circles and meticulously plans his daring heists. The narrative builds on his strategic mind and explores themes of disguise and deception, as he prepares to exploit the wealth that the season of festivities brings to the city. Ultimately, the opening lays a foundation for a thrilling tale of crime and cunning that promises to captivate readers with its mix of intrigue and adventure. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Guy Newell Boothby was a prolific Australian novelist and writer, noted for sensational fiction in variety magazines around the end of the nineteenth century. He lived mainly in England. He is best known for such works as the Dr Nikola series, about an occultist criminal mastermind who is a Victorian forerunner to Fu Manchu, and Pharos, the Egyptian, a tale of Gothic Egypt, mummies' curses and supernatural revenge. Rudyard Kipling was his friend and mentor, and his books were remembered with affection by George Orwell.