The Summons (ePub)

Alfred Edward Woodley Mason, commonly known as A. E. W. Mason (1865-1948), was a prolific English author and politician best known for his adventure novels and his contribution to the genre of historical fiction. Born in London, Mason was educated at Dulwich College and later, Trinity College, Oxford. Before he carved out a niche for himself in the world of literature, Mason embarked on a career in acting, which soon gave way to his vocation as a writer. His breakthrough work, 'The Four Feathers' (1902), cemented his reputation as a master of adventure stories imbued with patriotism and exotic settings. However, it is not only his adventure tales but also his detective fiction that garnered considerable praise, particularly the Inspector Hanaud series which was of significant influence in the genre. 'The Summons' (1920), another notable work by Mason, is a novel encompassing the themes of love, mystery, and crime, and showcases his robust storytelling and suspenseful prose. Mason's literary style often wove together the thrills of adventure with the intricacy of detective narratives, providing readers with an immersive escape into different eras and locales. His works have left an enduring mark on English literature, resonating with subsequent generations' fascination with heroism, honor, and the intrigue of a bygone world.