The Man With The Broken Ear By: Edmond About (1828-1885)
The Man With The Broken Ear by Edmond About is a thrilling novel that takes readers on a journey through political intrigue, secret societies, and moral dilemmas. Set in France during the mid-19th century, the story follows the character of M. Favoral, a respected banker and father of three, who suddenly finds himself accused of embezzlement. One of the most captivating aspects of this book is the author's ability to create a rich and immersive narrative that effortlessly combines elements of mystery, romance, and social commentary. About's writing style is both engaging and descriptive, allowing readers to vividly picture each scene and empathize with the characters' emotions. The protagonist, M. Favoral, is a complex and multi-dimensional character, torn between his desire to clear his name and protect his family. As the plot unfolds, readers are introduced to a cast of intriguing secondary characters, each with their own secrets and motivations. The interactions and relationships between these characters add depth and nuance to the story, further captivating readers and keeping them invested until the very end. Furthermore, the author expertly weaves in a social critique of the time, addressing issues such as corruption, social class, and the quest for power. Through the various characters, About explores the consequences of greed and the lengths people are willing to go to protect their interests. This adds a thought-provoking layer to the narrative, elevating it beyond a simple mystery plot. While the pacing of the story may be slow at times, it allows for a more thorough exploration of the characters and their motives. About's attention to detail in describing the setting and the historical context adds authenticity to the story, making it feel grounded in reality. In conclusion, The Man With The Broken Ear is a captivating tale that seamlessly combines elements of mystery, romance, and social commentary. With its well-developed characters, intricate plot, and thought-provoking themes, this novel is sure to entertain fans of historical fiction and intrigue. Edmond About's literary prowess shines through in this compelling read, leaving readers eagerly anticipating his next work. First Page: THE MAN WITH THE BROKEN EAR TRANSLATED FROM THE FRENCH OF EDMOND ABOUT BY HENRY HOLT NEW YORK HOLT & WILLIAMS 1872 Entered, according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1867, by HENRY HOLT, In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States, for the Southern District of New York. DEDICATION OF THE FIRST EDITION.[A] DEAR LEYPOLDT: You have not forgotten that nearly two years ago, before our business connection was thought of, this identical translation was 'respectfully declined' by you with that same courtesy, the exercise of which in frequent similar cases, each one of us now tries so hard to shove on the other's shoulders. I hope that your surprise on reading this note of dedication will not interfere with your forgiving the pertinacity with which, through it, I still strive to make the book yours . H. H. 451 BROOME STREET, May 16, 1867. [Footnote A: Published by Leypoldt & Holt.] The Translator has placed a few explanatory Notes at the end of the volume. They are referred to by numbers in the text. THE MAN WITH THE BROKEN EAR. CHAPTER I. WHEREIN THEY KILL THE FATTED CALF TO CELEBRATE THE RETURN OF A FRUGAL SON. On the 18th of May, 1859, M... Continue reading book >>

The Man With The Broken Ear By: Edmond About (1828-1885)

The Man With The Broken Ear by Edmond About is a thrilling novel that takes readers on a journey through political intrigue, secret societies, and moral dilemmas. Set in France during the mid-19th century, the story follows the character of M. Favoral, a respected banker and father of three, who suddenly finds himself accused of embezzlement.

One of the most captivating aspects of this book is the author's ability to create a rich and immersive narrative that effortlessly combines elements of mystery, romance, and social commentary. About's writing style is both engaging and descriptive, allowing readers to vividly picture each scene and empathize with the characters' emotions.

The protagonist, M. Favoral, is a complex and multi-dimensional character, torn between his desire to clear his name and protect his family. As the plot unfolds, readers are introduced to a cast of intriguing secondary characters, each with their own secrets and motivations. The interactions and relationships between these characters add depth and nuance to the story, further captivating readers and keeping them invested until the very end.

Furthermore, the author expertly weaves in a social critique of the time, addressing issues such as corruption, social class, and the quest for power. Through the various characters, About explores the consequences of greed and the lengths people are willing to go to protect their interests. This adds a thought-provoking layer to the narrative, elevating it beyond a simple mystery plot.

While the pacing of the story may be slow at times, it allows for a more thorough exploration of the characters and their motives. About's attention to detail in describing the setting and the historical context adds authenticity to the story, making it feel grounded in reality.

In conclusion, The Man With The Broken Ear is a captivating tale that seamlessly combines elements of mystery, romance, and social commentary. With its well-developed characters, intricate plot, and thought-provoking themes, this novel is sure to entertain fans of historical fiction and intrigue. Edmond About's literary prowess shines through in this compelling read, leaving readers eagerly anticipating his next work.

First Page:

THE MAN WITH THE BROKEN EAR

TRANSLATED FROM THE FRENCH OF EDMOND ABOUT

BY HENRY HOLT

NEW YORK HOLT & WILLIAMS 1872

Entered, according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1867, by HENRY HOLT, In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States, for the Southern District of New York.

DEDICATION OF THE FIRST EDITION.[A]

DEAR LEYPOLDT:

You have not forgotten that nearly two years ago, before our business connection was thought of, this identical translation was 'respectfully declined' by you with that same courtesy, the exercise of which in frequent similar cases, each one of us now tries so hard to shove on the other's shoulders. I hope that your surprise on reading this note of dedication will not interfere with your forgiving the pertinacity with which, through it, I still strive to make the book yours .

H. H.

451 BROOME STREET, May 16, 1867.

[Footnote A: Published by Leypoldt & Holt.]

The Translator has placed a few explanatory Notes at the end of the volume. They are referred to by numbers in the text.

THE MAN

WITH THE BROKEN EAR.

CHAPTER I.

WHEREIN THEY KILL THE FATTED CALF TO CELEBRATE THE RETURN OF A FRUGAL SON.

On the 18th of May, 1859, M... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Literature
Science

eBook links
Wikipedia – Edmond About
Wikipedia – The Man With The Broken Ear

eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook • iBooks for iPhone and iPad • Nook • Sony Reader	Kindle eBook • Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook • Load eBook in browser	Text File eBook • Computers • Windows • Mac