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Cover of Nick Carter Stories No. 149, July 17, 1915: A Network of Crime; or, Nick Carter's Tangled Skein.

Nick Carter Stories No. 149, July 17, 1915: A Network of Crime; or, Nick Carter's Tangled Skein.

Written by Nicholas (House name) Carter,Ralph Boston

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About this book

"Nick Carter Stories No. 149, July 17, 1915: A Network of Crime; or, Nick…" is a crime fiction work serialized in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Nick Carter, a renowned detective, as he investigates a baffling double murder that intertwines with the criminal underworld. Central to the plot is the exploration of various gangster characters, including the victims Connie Taggart and Batty Lang, and the mysterious Mexican Juan Padillo whose valuable possessions are at stake. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to a gripping scene involving a telephone call from Frank Mantell, seeking Nick Carter's assistance regarding a pressing matter involving a substantial sum of money. Meanwhile, Nick and his assistant Chick discover the aftermath of a violent double murder at a seemingly innocuous house. The detective finds clues indicating that the scene was the result of a fierce struggle, suggesting the involvement of multiple criminal factions. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that the case intersects with a larger narrative involving jewel smuggling and deception, setting the stage for high-stakes intrigue and danger.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Nick Carter Stories No. 149, July 17, 1915: A Network of Crime; or, Nick Carter's Tangled Skein., written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • beginner
  • mysterious
  • suspenseful
  • thrilling

Nick Carter Stories No. 149, July 17, 1915: A Network of Crime; or, Nick Carter's Tangled Skein, plunges the renowned detective into a baffling double murder amidst the treacherous criminal underworld. The narrative unfolds as Carter receives an urgent call for help from Frank Mantell concerning a large sum of money, only to discover the brutal aftermath of a struggle involving victims Connie Taggart and Batty Lang. As Nick and his assistant Chick meticulously investigate, clues point to a complex web of rival gangster factions and a larger scheme of jewel smuggling. The mysterious figure of Juan Padillo, whose valuable possessions are central to the conflict, adds another layer of intrigue, setting the stage for a high-stakes investigation fraught with danger and deception.

"A network of crime, Chick, a veritable tangled skein," Nick Carter mused, examining the blood-splattered room. "Every thread leads to another darkness."

Key themes

Justice vs. Injustice
The fundamental conflict of the story revolves around Nick Carter's relentless pursuit of justice in a world rife with criminal injustice. The double murder and the broader 'network of crime' represent the forces of lawlessness that Carter, as the embodiment of order, must confront and overcome.
The Pursuit of Truth
This theme is central to Nick Carter's character and the detective genre as a whole. It explores the intellectual and physical journey undertaken by Carter to meticulously gather clues, analyze evidence, and make logical deductions to uncover the facts obscured by crime.
Deception and Intrigue
At the heart of any detective story, deception and intrigue are paramount. This theme highlights the intricate layers of lies, hidden motives, and misdirection that Nick Carter must unravel to discover the truth behind the murders and the jewel smuggling.

Worth discussing

How does 'A Network of Crime' exemplify the characteristics of early 20th-century pulp fiction, and what was its appeal to contemporary audiences?

Chapter-by-chapter breakdowns, character arcs and the full thematic analysis come with a free account.

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