The narrative unfolds around a series of mysterious murders attributed to a woman known as the "lady with the hatchet." The story begins with the disappearance of five women, all of whom are later found dead, each killed by a blow to the head with a hatchet. The investigation reveals a pattern: each murder occurs after a specific number of days, leading to the discovery of a sixth victim, Hermione Williamson, whose death raises the stakes. The protagonist, a detective named Renine, becomes embroiled in the case when a friend, Hortense, goes missing on the same day as the sixth murder. Renine deduces that the lady with the hatchet is likely a madwoman, driven by a twisted logic that connects the victims through their names, all beginning with the letter "H" and consisting of eight letters. This connection leads him to believe that Hortense is the next target. As Renine investigates, he uncovers a web of relationships and motives, including a connection to a man named Dalbreque, who has a history of violence and theft. Renine's pursuit of the truth takes him through various encounters, including a confrontation with Dalbreque, who is ultimately revealed to have abducted Rose Andree, a woman connected to the film industry. The climax of the story occurs when Renine, with Hortense's help, confronts the realities of the situation, leading to a dramatic rescue of Rose Andree from Dalbreque's clutches. The narrative explores themes of obsession, identity, and the psychological complexities of the characters involved, culminating in a resolution that highlights the consequences of their actions and the nature of justice. Throughout the story, Renine's character is portrayed as a clever and resourceful detective, using his wit and intuition to navigate the intricate plot and ultimately save those in peril. The work concludes with a reflection on the nature of adventure and the unpredictable twists of fate that shape the lives of the characters.
By Maurice LeBlanc · First published 1922 · Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Adventure · 8 chapters