Sexton Blake (Author), Colin Heston (Introduction) Format: Paperback

Three classic adventures from the golden age of British popular fiction

Before James Bond, before Hercule Poirot became a household name, there was Sexton Blake—the tireless detective whose adventures thrilled generations of readers across Britain and the Empire.

This first volume of The Best Years collects three outstanding stories from the early twentieth century:

• In the Shadow of Siberia (1912)

• In the Kaiser's Service (1913)

• The Rajah's Revenge (1915)

Set against the backdrop of an anxious Europe edging toward war, these fast-paced tales find Blake confronting ruthless master criminals, foreign agents, political conspiracies, and deadly international intrigues. Alongside his loyal assistant Tinker and the famous bloodhound Pedro, Blake pursues murderers from the streets of London to the frontiers of empire.

These are stories of relentless action, cliff-hanger suspense, hidden documents, secret prisons, stolen fortunes, and daring rescues—exactly the kind of adventures that made Sexton Blake one of the most popular fictional heroes of the twentieth century.

Sexton Blake—and the “Pretenders”

One of the unique features of the Sexton Blake phenomenon is that the detective was not the creation of a single author. After the character's introduction in 1893, dozens—and eventually hundreds—of writers contributed adventures under the famous house name “Sexton Blake.”The result was a literary institution that lasted for more than eighty years and produced thousands of stories.

This volume highlights some of those talented “pretenders” behind the Blake legend. Andrew Murray authored In the Shadow of Siberia and The Rajah's Revenge, while William Shaw Rae, one of the earliest and most prolific Blake writers, penned In the Kaiser's Service. Together they demonstrate how different authors helped shape, expand, and enrich the world of Britain's great detective.

Featuring a new introduction by Colin Heston, this edition places these adventures in their historical context and explores the remarkable publishing phenomenon that made Sexton Blake a cultural icon.

A must-read for fans of classic mysteries, pulp adventures, Sherlock Holmes, vintage detective fiction, and Edwardian thrillers.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 315p.

by Sexton Blake (Author), Colin Heston (Introduction)

Before Sexton Blake became Britain's most famous detective, he was many detectives.

Early Blake: The Pretenders returns to the formative years of the great detective's career, presenting a remarkable collection of rare stories from 1893–1905 that reveal how the character evolved through the hands of multiple pioneering writers. Long before the standardized Blake of later decades, these adventures show a hero who could be detective, adventurer, spy, scientist, actor, and globe-trotter—sometimes all within the same story.

From inheritance conspiracies and criminal secret societies to hypnotism, imposture, international manhunts, theatrical murders, and bizarre scientific mysteries, these tales capture the extraordinary imagination of turn-of-the-century popular fiction. Readers will follow Sexton Blake across London, India, South America, the Mediterranean, and beyond as he unmasks killers, exposes frauds, rescues kidnapped heirs, and defeats some of the era's most ingenious villains.

Included are classic early adventures by William Shaw Rae, Hal Meredith, Arnold Grahame, F. H. Evans, and other influential contributors whose distinctive voices helped shape the detective's legend. These stories showcase the full range of the early Blake phenomenon: Gothic mystery, high adventure, melodrama, proto-thriller, scientific romance, and traditional detective fiction.

More than a collection of exciting mysteries, Early Blake: The Pretenders is a window into the creation of one of popular literature's greatest fictional institutions. The volume demonstrates how Sexton Blake's extraordinary versatility emerged through collaboration, experimentation, and the fertile imagination of numerous authors writing under a shared character.

For readers of Sherlock Holmes, Victorian and Edwardian detective fiction, pulp adventures, and literary history, this collection offers both thrilling entertainment and an important chapter in the development of modern popular fiction.

Note on the "Blake Pretenders"

The title The Pretenders operates on two levels.

Within the stories, Blake repeatedly confronts pretenders to wealth, titles, inheritances, identities, and social position. Impostors, masqueraders, false heirs, criminal doubles, and master deceivers drive many of the plots, making questions of identity central to the early Sexton Blake canon.

But there is a second meaning. The real "Blake pretenders" were the many authors who, over the years, stepped into the role of creating Sexton Blake himself. Unlike Sherlock Holmes, who remained associated with a single creator, Sexton Blake became a collaborative literary phenomenon. Each writer brought a different vision of the detective—more adventurous, more scientific, more theatrical, more mysterious, or more action-oriented. Rather than diminishing the character, these successive "pretenders" transformed Blake into one of the most adaptable heroes in popular fiction.

This volume celebrates those early contributors and reveals how their diverse interpretations combined to create the enduring legend of Sexton Blake.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 327p.

by Nick Carter (Author), Graeme R. Newman (Introduction)

Featuring: The Stolen Brain, An Uncanny Revenge, A Human Counterfeit, and The Forced Crime

What happens when crime appears impossible—and science itself becomes the weapon?

In this thrilling collection of classic Nick Carter adventures, America's legendary detective confronts some of the most bizarre and unsettling mysteries of the early twentieth century. Mad surgeons, stolen identities, psychological manipulation, human experimentation, and seemingly impossible crimes challenge Carter's powers of observation, deduction, and courage like never before.

The centerpiece of this volume, The Stolen Brain, pits Nick Carter against the brilliant but ruthless Doctor Hiram Grantley, a surgeon whose obsession with scientific discovery has crossed every moral boundary. As Carter uncovers a horrifying conspiracy of human experimentation, he finds himself facing a criminal genius willing to sacrifice anything—and anyone—in pursuit of forbidden knowledge.

Also included:

• An Uncanny Revenge – A chilling tale in which vengeance reaches beyond the ordinary limits of justice.

• A Human Counterfeit – An ingenious mystery of deception, impersonation, and hidden motives.

• The Forced Crime – A suspenseful battle of wills involving manipulation, coercion, and a crime that may not be what it seems.

Introduced by criminologist Graeme R. Newman, Strange Crimes explores the fascinating intersection of detective fiction, early forensic science, psychology, and the enduring appeal of the impossible crime. These stories capture a pivotal moment when scientific progress inspired both hope and fear, and when the detective became the champion of reason against mystery and deception.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 276p..

In Book 5 of the celebrated Nick Carter series, America's legendary detective confronts some of his most dangerous and morally complex cases. Murder, deception, stolen fortunes, elaborate conspiracies, and false accusations combine in a thrilling collection of classic detective adventures that helped define the modern crime novel.

This volume includes:

• A Battle for Right – A deadly confrontation at a poker game appears to end in murder, but the truth is far more complicated than anyone suspects. Nick Carter must untangle a web of family loyalties, hidden motives, and mistaken guilt before justice can prevail.

• With Links of Steel – A daring robbery, an international diamond gang, and a relentless pursuit lead Carter through one of his most ingenious investigations.

• The Crime of the French Café – An apparently straightforward murder becomes a masterclass in mistaken identity, deception, and brilliant deduction.

• Nick Carter's Ghost Story – Supernatural appearances conceal a thoroughly human crime, as Carter exposes the tricks behind a haunting mystery.

• The Mystery of St. Agnes' Hospital – Bribery, suspicious deaths, and hidden evidence place Carter's reputation—and the search for justice itself—at risk.

This new Read-Me.Org edition features an original introduction by Graeme R. Newman, exploring the relationship between crime fiction and the Progressive Era's faith in policing, prisons, punishment, and the rule of law. Newman shows how Nick Carter's adventures reflect enduring questions about justice, criminal investigation, and whether legal institutions can ever fully overcome human greed, corruption, and violence.

Fast-paced, intelligently plotted, and historically fascinating, Justice in Chains captures the golden age of American detective fiction while revealing why Nick Carter remains one of the most influential fictional detectives ever created. Whether you are discovering these stories for the first time or revisiting a classic, this collection offers suspense, ingenious mysteries, and timeless reflections on crime and justice.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 345p..

by Nick Carter (Author), Graeme Newman (Introduction)

Deadly Women and Other Mysteries brings together three gripping Nick Carter detective adventures in which danger, deception, and brilliant criminal minds collide in the shadowy world of early crime fiction.

At the heart of these stories are women who defy every conventional expectation of their age—women who are cunning, fearless, manipulative, and sometimes deadly. From criminal masterminds and femme fatales to survivors hiding dangerous secrets, these unforgettable characters challenge Detective Nick Carter at every turn.

In A Woman at Bay, Carter infiltrates a ruthless gang of railroad robbers and outlaws, only to discover that the legendary criminal leader known as Hobo Harry is actually the notorious Black Madge, one of the most formidable villains he has ever faced. Disguises, bank robberies, secret hideouts, and life-or-death escapes lead to an explosive battle between detective and queen of crime.

In The Babbington Case, a mysterious death, hidden identities, forged documents, and a deadly inheritance conspiracy draw Carter into a complex investigation where appearances are never what they seem—and where a beautiful woman may be far more dangerous than any armed criminal.

In Out of Death’s Shadow, blackmail, murder, deception, and long-buried secrets converge in a suspense-filled mystery that tests Carter’s powers of deduction to their limits.

Featuring daring undercover operations, criminal masterminds, courtroom drama, thrilling escapes, and some of the most memorable female antagonists of classic detective fiction, Deadly Women and Other Mysteries is a fascinating collection from the golden age of pulp mysteries.

This volume also includes an insightful introduction by Graeme R. Newman, exploring the role of women, crime, and social anxiety in Victorian and Edwardian detective fiction.

Perfect for readers of classic mysteries, vintage detective stories, Sherlock Holmes, and crime fiction history.

New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 377p.

by Nick Carter (Author), Graeme Newman (Introduction)

Three Classic Nick Carter Adventures of Crime, Deception, and Detection

Step into the thrilling world of early twentieth-century crime fiction with Master Criminals, a remarkable collection of three classic Nick Carter novels: Captain Sparkle, The Man Without a Conscience, and Under the Tiger’s Claws. Introduced by criminologist Graeme R. Newman and edited by Colin Heston, this volume captures a pivotal moment in the history of detective fiction, when crime was becoming more organized, more sophisticated, and more dangerous than ever before.

At the center of each story stands Nick Carter, the legendary detective whose intelligence, courage, and relentless determination make him the perfect opponent for a new breed of criminal mastermind. These are not ordinary thieves or opportunistic villains. They are professionals—carefully organized, highly intelligent, and willing to use deception, technology, and psychological manipulation to achieve their goals.

In Captain Sparkle, Carter faces one of his most extraordinary adversaries: a mysterious pirate who prowls the waters of Long Island Sound aboard the Shadow, a swift, nearly silent vessel that seems capable of appearing and disappearing at will. Wealthy yachts become targets of daring robberies, while masks, secret identities, and family intrigue conceal the truth behind the pirate’s operations. What begins as a series of sensational crimes develops into a dramatic struggle involving loyalty, romance, abduction, and a relentless pursuit that stretches from America to France.

The Man Without a Conscience plunges Carter into a world of fraud, deception, and criminal psychology. Faced with schemes built on greed, manipulation, and the absence of moral restraint, he must penetrate layers of disguise and misdirection to uncover the truth. The novel explores the chilling idea of crime as a profession, practiced with calculation rather than passion, and presents villains whose intelligence makes them every bit as formidable as the detective pursuing them.

In Under the Tiger’s Claws, Carter navigates a dangerous landscape shaped by gambling, temptation, betrayal, and hidden motives. As murder, suspicion, and conflicting loyalties draw innocent and guilty alike into a web of intrigue, Carter must separate appearance from reality to reveal the true culprit. The story combines suspense, emotional depth, and powerful themes of sacrifice, redemption, and justice.

Together, these three adventures showcase the enduring appeal of Nick Carter and the rise of the modern detective story. Filled with master criminals, secret identities, daring confrontations, and brilliant investigations, Master Criminals is an essential collection for readers who enjoy classic mysteries, vintage crime fiction, and the timeless battle between criminal ingenuity and detective genius.Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 432p.

by Nick Carter (Author), Colin Heston (Editor), Graeme Newman (Introduction)

Who are you when your name, face, and reputation can be stolen?

In this gripping second volume of the classic Nick Carter Mysteries, America's legendary detective confronts criminals who hide behind false identities, shattered loyalties, and perfect disguises. As deception spreads through high society and the criminal underworld alike, Carter must look beyond appearances to uncover the truth.

This collection features three thrilling adventures:

A Stolen Name
When the notorious criminal known as Bare-Faced Jimmy assumes the identity of a respected Southern gentleman, he appears untouchable. Protected by forged histories, social standing, and the law itself, he launches an audacious scheme involving stolen jewels, hidden fortunes, and a dangerous woman known only as The Leopard. To expose the truth, Nick Carter must wage a battle against one of the most brilliant impostors he has ever faced.

A Broken Bond
A lifelong friendship is shattered by betrayal, paranoia, greed, and attempted murder. As suspicion and deception threaten to destroy innocent lives, Carter uncovers a sinister conspiracy involving forged checks, scientific murder, and a criminal mastermind who hides behind a mask of respectability.

The Twin Mystery
When mistaken identity leads to murder, Nick Carter faces a baffling case involving twins, blackmail, revenge, and hidden family secrets. Every clue points in the wrong direction, and only Carter's relentless pursuit of the truth can reveal the real killer.

Filled with ingenious plots, dangerous criminals, undercover operations, international intrigue, and clever detective work, Dangerous Identities explores the timeless questions of trust, reputation, and the hidden selves that lie beneath the surface.

Perfect for readers who enjoy:

• Sherlock Holmes

• Golden Age mysteries

• Classic detective fiction

• Historical crime novels

• Pulp adventures

• Clever twists and hidden identities

Book 2 of a six-volume series collecting the complete adventures of Nick Carter, one of America's greatest fictional detectives.When names can be stolen and appearances cannot be trusted, only Nick Carter can uncover the truth.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 433p.

by Nick Carter (Author), Colin Heston (Editor), Graeme Newman (Introduction)

Strange Clues is the thrilling first volume in a six-book series collecting the classic adventures of America’s legendary detective, Nick Carter.

Long before modern crime fiction, Nick Carter was solving impossible mysteries, infiltrating criminal gangs, exposing master swindlers, and bringing dangerous killers to justice through a combination of daring action, brilliant deduction, and masterful disguise.

In this volume, three gripping detective novels place Carter against some of the most cunning criminals of the early twentieth century:
Following a Chance Clew
A seemingly random street attack leads Nick Carter into a deadly web of robbery, deception, and murder. As clues point toward the mysterious criminal mastermind known as Doc Helstone, Carter must unravel a conspiracy involving stolen diamonds, secret hideouts, and hidden identities before more lives are lost.

A Cigarette Clew
What begins with an ordinary cigarette becomes the key to exposing a sophisticated fraud worth millions. With swindlers, forged evidence, desperate pursuits, and clever traps, Nick Carter follows the smallest clue to uncover a massive criminal scheme.

The Four-Fingered Glove
A murder, a missing heir, a forged identity, and a fortune at stake. Facing one of his most complex investigations, Carter must untangle a maze of circumstantial evidence, family secrets, deception, and betrayal before an innocent person pays the price.

Filled with hidden passages, criminal masterminds, daring escapes, undercover operations, and ingenious clues, Strange Cluesshowcases the detective who helped define American mystery fiction.

Perfect for readers who enjoy:

• Sherlock Holmes

• Golden Age mysteries

• Classic detective fiction

• Vintage pulp adventures

• Clever clues and locked-room puzzles

• Historical crime stories

Step into the world of Nick Carter—where even the strangest clue can reveal the truth.

Edited and introduced by Colin Heston, this volume launches a six-book series celebrating one of the most influential detectives in American popular fiction.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 327p.

by Colin Heston (Author), A. E. W. Mason (Author) Format: Paperback

Before there was Poirot... there was Inspector Hanaud.

A master of both adventure and detective fiction, A. E. W. Mason created stories that have captivated readers for more than a century. Roads to Murder brings together two of his finest novels—one a sweeping tale of imperial adventure across the mountains of Afghanistan, the other a brilliantly constructed murder mystery featuring the legendary Inspector Hanaud.

In The Broken Road, political intrigue, dangerous frontiers, romance, and betrayal collide as lives are transformed by conflict on the turbulent borders of British India. Rich in atmosphere and suspense, the novel explores loyalty, honour, and sacrifice against one of the most dramatic landscapes in classic fiction.

In The House of the Arrow, Mason introduces readers to one of detective fiction's greatest investigators. When a wealthy widow dies under mysterious circumstances in rural France, Inspector Hanaud uncovers a web of deception, greed, and carefully concealed murder. Every clue matters. Every suspect has secrets. Every revelation leads closer to an unforgettable solution.

Together these two classics demonstrate Mason's remarkable versatility. One carries readers across mountains, deserts, and international intrigue; the other into the elegant but deadly world of Golden Age crime fiction. Both display the author's exceptional gift for memorable characters, intricate plotting, and sustained suspense.

This new edition includes an informative Preface by Colin Heston, placing both novels in their historical context while examining Mason's lasting influence on modern thriller and detective fiction.

Whether you enjoy classic mysteries, vintage thrillers, or timeless adventure stories, Roads to Murder offers two unforgettable journeys from one of Britain's greatest storytellers.

This edition features:

• Two complete classic novels by A. E. W. Mason

• A new scholarly Preface by Colin Heston

• Carefully prepared modern text

• An ideal volume for readers of Golden Age detective fiction, classic adventure, and literary crime novels

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 384p.

by Colin Heston (Author), A. E. W. Mason (Author) Format: Paperback

Step into a world of intrigue, courage, and moral conflict with this compelling double volume from acclaimed storyteller A.E.W. Mason. Trials of Honor and Fate brings together two unforgettable novels—The Witness for the Defence and The Winding Stair—in one masterful collection of suspense, adventure, and human drama.

In The Witness for the Defence, a seemingly straightforward murder trial unfolds into a gripping tale of love, loyalty, and sacrifice. As a barrister navigates a case that is painfully close to his own past, the boundaries between justice and personal honor blur. Set against evocative backdrops in England and colonial India, this powerful story explores the cost of silence and the weight of truth.

In The Winding Stair, Mason leads readers on a sweeping journey of redemption and courage. A young man burdened by his father’s disgrace sets out to reclaim lost honor, only to face dangers that test both his spirit and his convictions. Spanning continents and filled with vivid landscapes and high-stakes adventure, this novel reveals that the path to redemption is rarely straight—but always transformative.

Together, these two novels showcase Mason at the height of his storytelling powers—blending thrilling plots with deep psychological insight. Whether in the courtroom or the far reaches of unfamiliar lands, his characters are united by one question: can honor survive the trials imposed by fate?

Perfect for readers who enjoy:

• Classic mystery and courtroom drama

• Adventure tales set in exotic locations

• Stories of moral conflict, redemption, and courage

• Early 20th-century British fiction

Discover two timeless works in one captivating volume—where every choice matters, and every turn of fate leaves its mark.
Trials await. Honor is tested. Fate decides.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 306p.

by Colin Heston (Author), Arthur Machen (Author) Format: Paperback

Long before H. P. Lovecraft, Stephen King, and modern psychological horror, Arthur Machen was redefining the boundaries of supernatural fiction. His stories blurred the line between science and mysticism, reality and nightmare, suggesting that beneath the familiar world lies an older, stranger, and infinitely more terrifying reality.

This definitive collection brings together Machen's five greatest longer works, spanning more than twenty years of his remarkable career:

• The Great God Pan (1894) – the classic novella that shocked Victorian readers and forever changed supernatural fiction.

• The Three Impostors (1895) – an ingenious web of mysteries containing some of the finest weird tales ever written, including The Novel of the Black Seal and The Novel of the White Powder.

• The House of Souls (1906) – haunting stories in which everyday life opens onto hidden worlds of wonder and terror.

• The Hill of Dreams (1907) – Machen's deeply psychological masterpiece, exploring genius, obsession, imagination, and madness.

• The Terror (1917) – a chilling wartime novel in which nature itself appears to declare war on humanity.

More than a collection of horror stories, Of God and Terror is an exploration of forbidden knowledge, ancient myths, hidden civilizations, spiritual mystery, and the fragile limits of human understanding. Machen's influence can be traced through more than a century of literature, inspiring writers from H. P. Lovecraft and Algernon Blackwood to Ramsey Campbell, Clive Barker, and Stephen King.

This new Read-Me.Org edition features a substantial new preface by Colin Heston placing Machen's work in its historical context while examining its enduring relevance to modern readers. The text has been carefully modernized for readability while preserving the elegance, atmosphere, and distinctive voice of the original works.

Whether you are discovering Arthur Machen for the first time or returning to one of the founding masters of weird fiction, Of God and Terror offers an unforgettable journey into the mysterious territory where mythology, psychology, horror, and literature meet.

This volume includes:

• The Great God Pan

• The Three Impostors

• The House of Souls

• The Hill of Dreams

• The Terror

A landmark collection by one of the greatest—and most influential—writers of supernatural fiction ever to put pen to paper.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 470p.

Colin Heston (Editor and Preface). H. P. Lovecraft (author).

Enter the shadowed realms of H. P. Lovecraft—where the boundaries of reality unravel, and humanity stands helpless before forces older than time itself. Horrors of Madness brings together five of Lovecraft’s most iconic and unsettling works, newly edited and modernized for today’s reader.

In these pages, you will confront:

• The Dunwich Horror – A remote, decaying village hides a secret too monstrous to remain unseen.

• The Colour Out of Space – A mysterious entity from beyond the stars corrupts the very fabric of life.

• The Call of Cthulhu – Fragments of forbidden knowledge reveal a sleeping god beneath the sea.

• At the Mountains of Madness – A scientific expedition uncovers an ancient, alien civilization in the Antarctic wastes.

• The Shunned House – A cursed dwelling reveals horrors buried under generations of decay.

These tales form the dark heart of Lovecraft’s legacy—stories of forbidden knowledge, cosmic insignificance, and the fragile edge of sanity.

This edition has been carefully edited and modernized, with a thoughtful preface by Colin Heston, offering insight into Lovecraft’s enduring influence and the deeper themes behind his most chilling works.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:

• Cosmic horror and existential dread

• Gothic and supernatural fiction

• Dark, atmospheric storytelling

• Classic literature with modern readability

Dare to look beyond the veil.
Because once you understand the universe Lovecraft reveals… there is no going back.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 208p.

by Colin Heston (Author), E. W. Hornung (Author) Format: Paperback

Modernized and Edited with a Preface by Colin Heston

What if the man you trust to solve crime… knows exactly how to commit it?

From the celebrated author of Raffles, the Gentleman Thief, Ernest W. Hornung delivers a masterfully crafted collection of suspenseful tales centered on one of his most intriguing creations—the Crime Doctor.

In this newly modernized and carefully edited edition by Colin Heston, Hornung’s classic stories are brought vividly to life for today’s readers, preserving their original charm while enhancing readability and flow. With an insightful new preface, this edition invites you to rediscover a lesser-known but fascinating figure from the golden age of crime fiction.

Inside this volume you will discover:

• A series of gripping mysteries steeped in psychological intrigue

• A brilliant and unconventional mind operating on both sides of the law

• Atmospheric storytelling from the late Victorian and Edwardian eras

• A unique blend of deduction, deception, and moral ambiguity

Why readers love The Crime Doctor:

• A compelling precursor to modern antiheroes in crime fiction

• Written by the creator of the iconic A. J. Raffles

• Rich in wit, tension, and clever plot twists

• Perfect for fans of Sherlock Holmes, Arsène Lupin, and classic detective tales

About this Edition

This edition has been thoughtfully modernized for clarity and enjoyment, making Hornung’s sharp prose accessible without losing its original tone. Editor Colin Heston provides context and insight, making it ideal for both longtime admirers of classic crime fiction and new readers alike.

Step into a world where intellect is the ultimate weapon and justice is never quite what it seems…
The Crime Doctor awaits.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 275p.

by Colin Heston (Author), E. W. Hornung (Author)

Step into the shadowy world of London’s most charming criminal.

The Cracksmen brings together two classic collections—The Amateur Cracksman and Further Adventures of the Amateur Cracksman—introducing readers to A. J. Raffles, the original gentleman thief, and his loyal yet conflicted companion, Bunny Manders. In these unforgettable stories, high society elegance collides with daring crime, and the line between hero and villain is never quite clear.

When Bunny, ruined by debt and desperation, turns to his old schoolmate for help, he finds not a savior—but a mastermind. Raffles lives by wit alone, a celebrated cricketer by day and a cunning “cracksman” by night. What begins as a desperate alliance soon evolves into a thrilling partnership, plunging both men into a world of audacious burglaries, elaborate disguises, and razor‑sharp escapes.

From glittering Bond Street jewels to dangerous encounters with rival thieves and Scotland Yard detectives, each episode blends suspense, psychological tension, and dark humor. Whether infiltrating country estates, outmaneuvering rivals, or narrowly avoiding capture, Raffles treats crime as an art—beautiful, precise, and dangerously addictive. [The Cracksmen.docx  Word]

But beneath the glamour lies a deeper conflict. Through Bunny’s eyes, readers experience the intoxicating thrill of crime alongside its moral cost, as loyalty, fear, and admiration blur into something far more complicated.

Why readers love The Cracksmen

• A timeless anti‑hero who inspired generations of modern thieves and rogues

• Clever, fast-paced stories filled with twists and ingenious schemes

• Sharp wit and psychological depth beneath the adventure

• A fascinating exploration of morality, identity, and friendship

Perfect for fans of Sherlock Holmes (with a criminal twist), Arsène Lupin, classic crime fiction, and character-driven adventure.

Rediscover one of literature’s most iconic rogues in this modernized edition—where crime is a game, danger is ever-present, and charm may be the greatest weapon of all.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 238p.

by Colin Heston (Author), E. W. Hornung (Author), George W. Lambert (Illustrator) Format: Paperback

Modernized and Edited with a Preface by Colin Heston.

Outlaw. Gentleman. Mystery. Legend.

In the rugged vastness of the Australian frontier, a name is whispered with both fear and admiration—Stingaree. A bushranger of rare cunning and unexpected honor, Stingaree is no ordinary criminal. He robs, yes—but with purpose. And those who cross his path soon learn that nothing about him is what it seems.

From the acclaimed creator of Raffles, the Gentleman Thief, E. W. Hornung crafts a thrilling tale of deception, justice, and disguise. Filled with sharp wit, daring exploits, and shifting identities, Stingaree stands as one of Hornung’s most intriguing and unconventional works.

Inside this edition:

• A suspenseful adventure set in the wild Australian outback

• A compelling antihero who challenges the line between crime and justice

• Twists, disguises, and clever reversals at every turn

• Vivid storytelling rich in atmosphere and tension

About this Edition

This version has been modernized and expertly edited by Colin Heston, making Hornung’s classic prose clear and engaging for contemporary readers while preserving its original spirit. A thoughtful new preface provides context and insight into the story’s enduring appeal.
Perfect for fans of classic adventure, literary antiheroes, and timeless crime fiction, Stingaree delivers a gripping journey into a world where appearances deceive—and justice wears many masks.
Meet the outlaw who plays by his own rules.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 138p.

by Colin Heston (Author), E. W. Hornung (Author) Format: Paperback

Edited and Modernized with a Preface by Colin Heston

A haunting tale of justice, guilt, and the thin line between innocence and condemnation.

In The Shadow of the Rope, E. W. Hornung—best known for creating the gentleman thief Raffles—turns his keen eye to a darker, more psychological mystery. When a man stands accused of a brutal crime, the evidence seems damning, the verdict all but certain. Yet beneath the surface lies a web of doubt, fear, and moral complexity that refuses to be neatly untangled.

As the shadow of the noose looms ever closer, questions of truth and justice take center stage. Is the law infallible? Can appearances deceive even the most seasoned observers? Hornung crafts a tense and atmospheric narrative that keeps readers guessing until the final page.

This edition has been carefully edited and modernized for today’s readers while preserving the tone and power of the original text. It also features a thoughtful and engaging preface by Colin Heston, offering fresh insight into Hornung’s work and its enduring relevance.

Perfect for fans of classic British mysteries, courtroom drama, and psychological suspense, The Shadow of the Rope remains a gripping exploration of the human conscience under pressure.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 176p.

by Colin Heston (Author), E. W. Hornung (Author) Format: Paperback

Step into the shadowy world of gentleman thieves and glittering deception with Raffles, a captivating collection featuring two classic novels by E. W. Hornung: Mr. Justice Rafflesand A Thief in the Night. Elegantly brought together in this edition and enriched with a thoughtful introduction by Colin Heston, this volume revives one of literature’s most charismatic antiheroes for a new generation of readers.

A. J. Raffles—cricketer, clubman, and master burglar—moves effortlessly between high society and the criminal underworld, stealing jewels and slipping past suspicion with charm, wit, and daring. Narrated by his loyal but conflicted companion, Harry “Bunny” Manders, these stories explore the moral ambiguities of crime, loyalty, and identity in late Victorian England.

In A Thief in the Night, readers witness Raffles at the height of his audacity, executing ingenious heists under the noses of the elite. In Mr. Justice Raffles, the stakes rise dramatically as consequences close in, leading to one of the most gripping conclusions in classic crime fiction.

This carefully edited edition includes:

• The complete texts of two full-length Raffles novels

• A fresh and engaging introduction by Colin Heston, offering insight into the character, themes, and literary legacy

• Clean, reader-friendly formatting perfect for modern audiences

Perfect for fans of Sherlock Holmes, Arsène Lupin, and classic detective fiction, Rafflesstands as a brilliant portrait of charm, danger, and the irresistible allure of the outlaw gentleman.

Rediscover the thief who steals not just valuables—but the reader’s admiration.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 275p.

by Colin Heston (Author), E. W. Hornung (Author) Format: Paperback

Secrets do not die. They wait.

In this gripping new edition of Dead Men Tell No Tales, now featuring a compelling preface by Colin Heston, readers are invited deeper than ever into a world where truth is buried, evidence is manipulated, and silence is enforced at any cost.

When investigative journalist Elias Harrow receives a message from a man officially declared dead, he is drawn into a mystery that defies logic and threatens everything he believes about justice. What begins as a single anomaly soon reveals a chilling pattern—records rewritten, witnesses erased, and deaths that appear far too convenient.

As Elias digs deeper, powerful forces close in, determined to keep their secrets buried. In a system designed to protect itself, truth becomes dangerous, and survival demands impossible choices. With every step forward, Elias finds himself isolated, unsure who he can trust in a world where even the dead are used as tools.

In his thought-provoking new preface, Colin Heston explores the enduring relevance of the novel’s themes, reflecting on the uneasy relationship between power, truth, and the stories we are told—and those we are not meant to hear.

Tense, intelligent, and unflinchingly dark, Dead Men Tell No Tales is a suspenseful exploration of corruption, courage, and the cost of uncovering the truth. Perfect for readers who crave layered mysteries and moral complexity, this is a novel that lingers long after the final page.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 173p.

By Nicolay Gogol; Translated by Isaac Levine from the Russian; Edited with a New Preface by Colin Heston.

What happens when confidence becomes deception—and when courtship becomes panic?

In these two enduring comic masterpieces, Nikolai Gogol exposes the weaknesses, ambitions, and absurdities that continue to shape human behavior nearly two centuries after they were written.

In The Gamblers, a professional card sharp believes himself the cleverest man in the room. Skilled in deception and confident in his ability to outwit anyone he meets, he eagerly pursues what appears to be the opportunity of a lifetime. But Gogol's brilliant comedy of fraud, greed, and manipulation reveals an uncomfortable truth: those who think themselves impossible to deceive are often the easiest victims.

In Marriage, a timid bachelor finds himself pursued toward the altar by an energetic friend, an impatient matchmaker, and a bewildering collection of social expectations. As rival suitors compete for the hand of the eligible Agafya Tikhonovna, confusion, hesitation, and comic chaos multiply. The result is one of the funniest examinations of courtship ever written, culminating in one of the most famous comic endings in world theatre.

Presented here in lively modern English, this edition updates the classic 1927 translation to make Gogol's wit, satire, and unforgettable characters accessible to contemporary readers while preserving the spirit and dramatic power of the original works.

Sharp, humorous, and surprisingly modern, The Gamblers and Marriage remains a brilliant portrait of human folly, exposing the eternal temptations of greed, vanity, self-deception, and fear of commitment.

For readers who enjoy classic comedy, social satire, and timeless observations of human nature, these two masterpieces demonstrate why Gogol remains one of the greatest comic writers in world literature.

This edition includes:

• A new Preface by Colin Heston

• Modernized adaptations of both plays

• Editorial corrections and updated language

• Complete texts of The Gamblers and Marriage

• An accessible introduction to Gogol's enduring comic genius

Laugh at the characters if you wish—but be prepared to recognize something of yourself in them.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 203 p.

By Nicolay Gogol; Translated by Thomas Seltzer from the Russian; Edited with a New Preface by Colin Heston.
A Comedy in Five Acts
What happens when a corrupt town is terrified by the rumor of a government inspection—and mistakes the wrong man for the inspector?

First performed in 1836, The Inspector-General (Revizor) is Nicolay Gogol's immortal masterpiece of satire, one of the most influential comedies ever written. Set in a remote provincial town of Imperial Russia, the play begins when local officials learn that a secret government inspector is on his way from St. Petersburg. Panic spreads through the administration. Bribes have been taken, records have been neglected, justice has been compromised, and public services are in disarray. Desperate to conceal their misconduct, the town's leaders mistakenly identify a young, penniless civil servant as the feared inspector.

What follows is a brilliant comedy of deception, vanity, corruption, and self-delusion. As the bewildered visitor discovers his unexpected power, the town's officials compete to flatter, bribe, and impress him, exposing their own greed and incompetence in increasingly absurd and hilarious ways.

More than a nineteenth-century Russian farce, The Inspector-General remains strikingly relevant today. Gogol's penetrating observations about bureaucracy, political fear, official misconduct, and the misuse of authority continue to resonate wherever institutions place appearances above integrity. His unforgettable characters reveal timeless truths about human weakness, ambition, and the corrupting influence of power.

This edition features Thomas Seltzer's classic English translation together with a new Preface by Colin Heston examining Gogol's life, the historical background of the play, its enduring relevance, and its place among the greatest works of world literature.

A landmark of Russian drama, The Inspector-General combines laughter with sharp social criticism and remains as entertaining—and as unsettling—as when it first astonished audiences nearly two centuries ago.

This Read-Me.Org Classic Reprint includes:

• The complete text of Gogol's celebrated comedy
• Thomas Seltzer's English translation from the Russian
• A new scholarly Preface by Colin Heston
• Historical publication information
• Original cast and performance notes

A timeless masterpiece of satire that reminds us that corruption often reveals itself long before any inspector arrives.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2026. 124 p.