The Exploits of Arsène Lupin

by Maurice Leblanc, Otto Penzler (Introduction)

On a transatlantic voyage, Europe’s greatest criminal plots a daring caper

The ship is several days out to sea when the telegram comes through with a warning that among the passengers is a disguised criminal: the fearsome Arsène Lupin. For months, Paris society has quaked at the name of the gentleman thief, whose manners are kind, whose tastes are exquisite, and who steals only from the best. When Lupin is spotted aboard the boat, his scandalous career appears to be finished. But in truth, it is just beginning.
 
The moment he steps ashore, Lupin is captured by his nemesis, the detective Ganimard, and taken to France’s infamous Prison de la Santé, where Ganimard plans to lock him up and throw away the key. But no jail in the world can hold the world’s most ingenious thief for long; he has only to slip his shackles before beginning the adventure of a lifetime.
 
This ebook features a new introduction by Otto Penzler and has been professionally proofread to ensure accuracy and readability on all devices.

Genres: Mystery, Short Stories, Classics, Fiction, Mystery Thriller, Historical, Adventure

290 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 28, 2014

About the author

Maurice Leblanc (1864 - 1941) was a French novelist, best known as the creator of gentleman thief (later detective) Arsène Lupin.

Leblanc began as a journalist, until he was asked to write a short story filler, and created, more gallant and dashing than English counterpart Sherlock Holmes.

Reviews

[Fran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meet Arsene Lupin, gentleman burglar, a well spoken, charming rogue. With finesse, he outwits his prey by lifting and scooping up priceless items from chateaux and salons. He leaves nary a trace, not a fingerprint! Lupin, a man of a thousand disguises: chauffeur, detective, young man, delivery man, or old geezer, to name a few. Lupin finds burglary to be "...a profitable and pleasant occupation with a little care and reflection, it becomes a most delightful profession." "...to be on the spot when opportunity occurs...where [if] force fails, cunning prevails." Shrewd Detective Ganimard suspects Lupin for any unexplained high profile crimes.

"The Exploits of Arsene Lupin" by Maurice Leblanc is a collection of nine playful, mystery-filled short stories. Some of the adventures included are The Queen's Necklace, The Arrest of Arsene Lupin, Arsene Lupin in Prison, the Escape of Arsene Lupin and Mysterious Traveler. Lupin's ability to constantly fabricate new characters to achieve his agenda of collecting jewels worth millions while removing all obstacles in his path creates mysterious, colorful, often humorous capers. "How could anyone enter...how could anyone escape, leaving behind a bolted door and a fastened window?" Lupin can and most certainly will!.

[Julie Davis · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've read a number of these in different mystery story collections over the years and always enjoyed gentleman thief Arsene Lupin's joie de vivre and sense of mischief. Watching the Lupin series made me (like many others, I am sure) want to read an actual collection of the original tales.

I especially enjoyed the variety of crimes and that several stories were origin tales of how Lupine became Lupin. Very amusing.

[Paxton Holley · Rating 2 out of 5]

The early 20th century stories from which the Netflix series Lupin takes inspiration. This is a collection of short stories involving the adventures of gentleman burglar Lupin. The last one being the first meeting between Arsene Lupin and Sherlock Holmes.

These are pretty good. Mostly short. Reading this I better understand the Netflix Lupin. The stories and how it treats the character are very similar. You even see aspects from these stories used in the Netflix series.

The problem is, in these stories, Lupin is kind of insufferable. I don’t like him. And I’m not pulling for him to win.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Goodreads has been recommending this book for awhile and I needed to read a book about a heist. I picked the perfect book. This is a collection of short stories, but the stories connect so well, it is almost like reading a novel. Usually in a collection of stories, there are one or two that I don't like. I liked every story. My favorite was the Seven of Hearts and the last one where Arsene Lupin crossed paths with the great detective, Sherlock Holmes.

The Seven of Hearts was such a good story, I read it twice. I sat on the edge of my seat. Imagine getting a note in the book you are reading, If you value your life, stay in bed, just go to sleep and don't even think about moving. There was a man behind the curtain with a loaded revolver.

Arsene Lupin was quite a character. He was a gentleman thief, very smooth and wise. He never hurt anyone, maybe pride by stealing someones valuables. Sometimes Arsene was funny. He loved to send notes and letters that would put nerves on edge. He had a high taste for jewelry and art work. He once left a note, your furniture is not to my taste. When you get better high class things I will return. He was the master of disguises. There was no lock he could not pick. That is why all of these short stories have an interesting twist at the end.

There is a tease at the very end, Sherlock Holmes and Arsene Lupin will meet again. A great detective versus a master theif. I wonder who wins?

[Avigail · Rating 2 out of 5]

Lately, there are a lot of books being produced as movies or/and TV series. Through Netflix, I found out about the Arsène Lupin series first published in 1907. The Netflix series is called Lupin, and it looks like an interesting series that I will watch very soon.
I am a bookworm that likes to read the book first before watching the series. But unfortunately, I was not fond of it as much as I would like. Maybe I wouldn't say I liked the translation of the particular edition.
There were times that I had to reread sentences and paragraphs so I can continue with stories.
While reading the book, I felt I was reading Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle even though there is a character named Herlock sholmes and his assistant Wilson.
While in the beginning, I enjoyed the interesting twists, cunning plans, and depictions of Lupin's playful manner. Then it got a tad repetitive and not so clever anymore.
I feel the stories are not so original, and for me, most of them are forgettable.
Unfortunately, I will not continue with the series, but I will watch the Netflix series.

[Dfordoom · Rating 4 out of 5]

On the whole I find it a little difficult to sympathise with the forces of law and order, so Maurice Leblanc’s stories of Arsène Lupin, gentleman burglar, are right up my alley. Lupin is a thief, but he also has a highly developed sense of justice. A bit like the Saint – he only steals from people who can afford it, and he takes a special delight in stealing from less reputable criminals, or in foiling the plans of real evil-doers. The Exploits of Arsène Lupin collects nine Lupin stories. These include The Queen’s Necklace, very important for the light it sheds on Lupin’s early life, and Holmlock Shears Arrives Too Late, in which the French master-thief crosses swords with a certain English master-detective. The name change was apparently necessitated by legal action by Conan Doyle, although in fact it was really a tribute by one master storyteller to another. These are delightful crime stories, inventive and highly entertaining.

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book #: 12
Title: The Exploits of Arsène Lupin
Author: Maurice Leblanc
Series: Arsène Lupin #1
Format: 290 pages, Kindle Edition, own
Pub Date: First published June 10, 1907
Started: 1/17/25 Finished: 1/26/25
Awards: none
Categories: Classic; Mystery; Short Stories; PS47 A book of interconnected short stories; GR8 A collection of short stories or novellas, essays, poetry, or a mix of various brief writing; GR24. A book with a main character who is a brain, an athlete, a basket case, a princess, or a criminal (criminal);GR32. A mystery or true crime book (mystery); GR2016: A book originally written in a language other than English (French); A Book more than 100 Years old; A Book using a character created by another author (Herlock Sholmes!:));
Goodreads Rating: 3.81; 32,576 ratings; 3,130 reviews
My Rating: **** four out of five stars.

I read a lot of mysteries. Given the chance to read mysteries written over a hundred years ago, I grabbed the book. BTW, Sherlock Holmes was created in 1887, so he had been around for 20 years when the character of Arsene was created. While I enjoyed the short stories, I don't think I'm interested enough to track down the other 20+ books, particularly since some of them haven't been translated into English.

[Marsha Rafalski · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series of short stories, first published in 1905, was written for the newsmagazine he was employed by to be “a French version of the very popular Sherlock Holmes.” Maurice LeBlanc followed up with 24 books and 25 novellas with the last of the series published in 1935 (reissued in collections in 2021). Arsène Lupin is the alias for a master thief operating in the wealthy, noble families of the European continent and the British Empire including the U.S. and Canada. The primary difference between Lupin and Holmes is an embedded sense of humor and ironic fun. Loosely based on the real head of a band of thieves, Marius Jacob shared many of his namesake’s principles, sense of honor and morals (never stealing from people in useful professions). Although on first impression, Lupin and Holmes share a number of traits, the basic difference of Holmes as part of the police authorities and Lupin as a self described criminal, they are natural antagonists even to one of the later stories in which Holmes appears as a crossover character. Both are considered masters of disguise and can blend into the scenery. Both have a disdain for their clientele.

The main character is roguish, daring, clever, mischievous, fun, melodramatic, and witty. The capers are telescopic, from what may seem to be predictable but become bigger than life. Setting the standard as an urbane, cinematic setting, filled with sparkling playful rivalry. Thus, Lupin is a more amusing, entertaining version of the “gentleman thief”, sparking such creations as John Robie in “To Catch a Thief’, the “Ocean’s” series, the “Sting”, “Indiscrete,” “Notorious” or the “Bond series.” I found it well worth the effort.

Recommend to readers of classic mysteries, crime, France, thrillers, detective, and short stories.

[bluerose · Rating 4 out of 5]

This collection of short stories is known by several different titles, which confused me at first. But that's in keeping with the main character, as the introduction of this edition makes clear:

"His myriad names, combined with his brilliant costumes, make it nearly impossible for the police to identify him (the reader of his exploits sometimes encounters a similar difficulty)."

Enter Arsène Lupin.

Whatever it's called, this is the first in a series of books written about the gentleman thief. They've been on my list for a while, and I will shamelessly admit that this one jumped to the top because of the modern-day French adaptation that's set to hit Netflix at the end of this week. (Maybe one of these days I'll reach a level where I'm comfortable reading this series in French...dare to dream...)

At any rate, this was delightful and I'm moving right along to the next book which promises to be a good time as it features Lupin crossing swords with none other than Sherlock Holmes--excuse me, Herlock Sholmes. Totally different (*cough* copyright laws *cough*).

ETA: This was of course written in 1907 NOT 2014.

[Jeff Hobbs]

Read so far:

The arrest of Arsène Lupin (L'arrestation d'Arsene Lupin)--3
*Arsène Lupin in prison (Arsène Lupin en prison)--
The escape of Arsène Lupin (L'evasion d'Arsene Lupin)--
The mysterious railway passenger (aka The mysterious traveler) (Le mysterieux voyageur)--3
The queen's necklace (Le collier de la reine)--
The seven of hearts (Le sept de coeur)--
Madame Imbert's safe (Le coffre-fort de Madame Imbert)--
The black pearl (La Perle noire)--
Sherlock Holmes arrives too late (Sherlock Holmes arrive trop tard)--
***
At the sign of mercury (Au dieu Mercure)
The bridge that broke (Le pont qui s'effondre)
Drops that trickle away (Les gouttes qui tombent)
Edith swan-neck (aka Arsene Lupin's last adventure) (Edith au cou de cygne)
Footprints in the snow (Des pas sur la neige) --2
The lady with the hatchet (La dame a la hache)--2
On the top of the tower (Au sommet de la tour)
The red silk scarf (L'echarpe de soie rouge)--3
Twelve little pickaninnies (Les douze africains de Bechoux)

[Jamie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this collection of short stories the same way I enjoy watching the BBC Sherlock series. It's fun and engaging and you need to pay attention. I didn't give it four stars because I didn't find it quite compelling enough. That is, while it was entertaining, I felt that nevertheless I could walk away from a story in the middle of it and not feel particularly bothered by not knowing what happened. But then, I've never been a huge fan of mystery or detective novels, precisely because they run on suspense and intrigue, which aren't my usual cup of tea. Still, a very fun read for anyone looking for uncomplicated entertainment.

[E · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a set of stories, 100 years old, translated from the French, of Arsene Lupin a "gentleman-thief" and master of disguise. These stories are not "mysteries." The fun is trying to figure out which character in each story is Lupin in disguise, and also wonder how he managed to carry out his latest caper. The stories are somewhat sequential, but they could be enjoyed independently. Much fun comes in a story where a prickly English detective named Holmlock Shears shows up (the French love to poke fun at their cross-Channel neighbors!). All in all, this compilation is a delight, and I'd recommend it to anyone.

[Nhu · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed it. It's an interesting juxtaposition to the famous Sherlock Holmes series, though I confess I haven't read any of them. T'is a shame, really. Arsene Lupin is a master in disguise...very witty and cocky. [SPOILER STATEMENT] It's nice to know that his one weakness is a girl...like all great - good and bad - characters.

I have to say that one of the things that made this read enjoyable was the English employed. My favorite form of English (that which is written in the 18th and 19th centuries).

[Timothy Barnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful selection of well-plotted short stories which introduce Arsene Lupin and develop the intrigue and backstory of the character. The title accurately describes the way this anthology houses a number of stories which chronicle Lupin's exploits committing burglaries and outwitting the wealthy individuals he regularly dupes, while eluding inspector Ganimard as he tirelessly seeks the apprehension of the criminal.

[Andrew Austin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I decided on this book after reading an article about Vjeran Tomic in the New Yorker last week. He is compared (by himself and others) to Arsène Lupin - for his daring and seemingly impossible feats of burglary and also for his nonviolent and almost artistic approach to thieving. This book is of its time (originally published in 1907), but if you like the Sherlock Holmes stories you’ll enjoy this as well. Part of my Kindle reading for the year.

[Janie Tran · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some chapters are more enjoyable than others, though I'm not so keen on the idea of Lupin being a thief in one story then a detective wannabe in another. Then the last one featuring Sherlock Holmes, my most anticipated, killed the mood. It could have been interesting to see a thief outwitting Holmes somehow, but the portrayal of Holmes is not convincing. Maybe gonna try one more of the series where it only focuses on Lupin, I guess I tend to be bias when Holmes is around :)

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book! It's a nice, quick read, but very intellectual. The stories aren't Whodunnits, but How'dhedunnits - we know (or, we can pretty well guess) that Arsene Lupin is the mastermind behind the thefts, but the interesting aspects are *how* he committed the crimes. Fun stuff!

It also helps that the copy I read was charming: a 1907 original hardback :)

[Chrys · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this short collection of stories about different adventures of the famous fictional French thief Arsene Lupin. They are witty and entertaining. My favorite story was "The Seven of Hearts," which tells the story of how Arsene Lupin and one of his best friends met. I would recommend the book to anyone who is a fun of mysteries and intrigue.

[Yami · Rating 5 out of 5]

I coulant but smile till my mouth ached reading it, though I read it many times before.....this short stories shows the early start of Arsène Lupin, and how he he made his name, and eve his real first theft. It is fun to read and the his coolness and wet is simply as funny as it is charming, no wonder he is known as the gentleman thief .

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some clever plots but difficult to read. It helps to know French names and locations.

I read this during the Paris Olympics in 2024 for a book group. Got half way through and abandoned it.

Returned later to finish. Stories were a bit better in the second half.

I borrowed a copy from the public library.

[Mackenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great feel-good book. I found myself dazzled by Lupin time and time again in each chapter. Whether he was pulling off an escape, a heist, or whatever else, Arsene Lupin does not disappoint in his ability to put on a show!

[Hartley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very fun selection of short stories. I was inspired to read this by the Hayo Miyazaki movie Lupin III which is takes as a reference point these original stories of the "Gentleman Burglar." Very enjoyable!

[Duncan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got a massive kick out of this. Not the world’s best translation, I suspect, but the wry humour; the cunning of Arsene; the depiction of the Paris of the time; and the delightful digs at an institution like ‘Holmhock Shears’ all add up to a really enjoyable read.

[JoAn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this collection of short stories by Maurice Leblanc to be very enjoyable. Mon. Lupin is a unique character who is quite impressive in keeping one step ahead of the French police. A quick read of great mysteries.

[Janet Mahlum · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was not what I thought it was going to be. I was expecting a novel, but it is a series of short stories, not linked in any way and not in chronological order. I prefer lengthy stories where a character and plot can be carefully developed.

[Robert Weiss, · Rating 4 out of 5]

dated but engaging

Excellent stories about the master of sleight of hand, Arsène Lupin. In some he works as a sort of Robin Hood, in others he is the villain. But never with violence, always with cleverness. Delightful.

[Tariq · Rating 5 out of 5]

To be honest I can't remember much, but I remember it was funny. Battered copy.

[Ralph · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars.

An obvious knock-off of Sherlock Holmes, but not nearly as engaging to me.

[Jesse Bollinger · Rating 4 out of 5]

The stories are so much fun. Lupin is such a delightful thief and I loved reading about his exploits.

[Bill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surprisingly good

I enjoyed these as much as Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes stories. Easy to see why these stories are beloved in France.