Barr, Robert. [Speculations of John Steele.] †$1.50. Stokes.
“There is not a dull page in the story. It moves on to a happy ending and the situations are so well handled that the reader’s attention is held from the beginning to the end, while as he reads he begins to understand why the mere pursuit of unearned wealth in this country is so absorbing.” Mary K. Ford.
+ Bookm. 22: 366. D. ’05. 1020w.
“We cannot believe that Mr. Steele really did that which he is alleged to have done.”
– Pub. Opin. 40: 153. F. 3, ’06. 140w.
Barr, Robert (Luke Sharp, pseud.). [Triumphs of Eugene Valmont.] †$1.50. Appleton.
“Eugene Valmont is an addition to the large number of private detectives who have betrayed the confidence of their clients by recording their achievements.” (Ath.) His exploits carried thru a group of stories frequently reveal a deviation from English legal methods, and hence an opportunity for other than machine made results. “The story of how the famous diamond necklace brought ill fate to every one connected with it from Marie Antoinette down is capitally told and helps to explain why Valmont lost his place as chief of detectives in Paris.” (N. Y. Times.)
“The creation of Eugene Valmont may, indeed, be counted one of Mr. Barr’s best achievements.”
+ Ath. 1906, 1: 475. Ap. 21. 200w.