The Master of Mysteries

by Gelett Burgess, Leslie S. Klinger (Editor)

"From the inspired mystic to the man of practical analytic mind, the transition was instantaneous..."

Astro, the Seer of Secrets, and his lovely assistant, Valeska, sound more like a magic act than a private detection team. Astro, in fact, hides his powers of observation and reasoning beneath a turban and a cape, pretending to read palms and consult crystals while in fact keenly observing details that most people—police included—miss. Valeska, his beautiful blond protege, assists Astro with his investigations, all the while honing her own skills. Called upon by believers and skeptics both, they adeptly recover what is missing—a rare Shakespeare folio, a missing husband, a kidnapped child—while also solving actual murders. But it is their burgeoning romance, and their mutual zeal to work pro bono where matters of the heart are at stake, that set this crime-solving duo apart.

Genres: Mystery, Fiction, Short Stories

496 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1912

About the author

Frank Gelett Burgess was an artist, art critic, poet, author and humorist. An important figure in the San Francisco Bay Area literary renaissance of the 1890s, particularly through his iconoclastic little magazine, The Lark, he is best known as a writer of nonsense verse, such as "The Purple Cow", and for introducing French modern art to the United States in an essay titled "The Wild Men of Paris." He was the author of the popular Goops books, and he coined the term "blurb."

Reviews

[Phrynne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a new edition of a book first released in 1912 and it is lots of fun! It features Astro, the Seer of Secrets and Master of Mysteries. He claims to be psychic, and makes money by solving people's problems apparently mystically. In truth he possesses a Sherlock Holmes like ability to observe and analyse clues combined with a clever assistant, Valeska, who spies on the customers and feeds him information.

The book is a series of his cases some more intriguing than others, and all full of historical detail. Interestingly there is also a romance between Astro and Valeska which develops in tiny steps throughout the book culminating in a wedding at the end.

Recommended for anyone who enjoys books from the Golden Age of crime, particularly for those who like Sherlock Holmes.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Ivonne Rovira · Rating 3 out of 5]

Astro, the self-styled Seer of Secrets, debuted in 1908 in a magazine, and The Master of Mysteries was first released in 1912. This book of short stories reminded me a lot of the TV show Psych, as it deals with a hyper-observant man who uses his unusual power to pass himself off as a mystic. Astro’s sidekick is a lovely blonde assistant rather than a put-upon buddy, but, otherwise, the comparison holds pretty well. If anything, I like author Gelett Burgess’ precursor more than the irresponsible early 21st century copy.

Astro may claim to his clientele that he consults “vibrations,” “auras” and crystal balls for his knowledge, but he expends plenty of shoe leather and time checking things out in this astral plane. The cases vary from the sweet (“The Lorsson Elopement,” “Priscilla’s Presents”) to the clever (“The Stolen Shakespeare,” “Miss Dalrymple’s Locket,” “Mrs. Selwyn’s Emerald,” “The Count’s Comedy,” “Van Asten’s Vistor”) to the ultra-trite or the predictable (“The Fanshawe Ghost,” “Number Thirteen,” “The Assassins’ Club,” “The Luck of the Merringtons”). The collection would have benefited from dropping a few of the more pedestrian entries; still, credit goes to editor Leslie S. Klinger for including footnotes to apprise readers about late 19th and early 20th century notables, items and events. All in all, I’m glad that I spent time with Astro and his lovely assistant Valeska Wynne.

In fact, I found myself charmed enough that I tried to discover more Astro the Seer books. Alas, I don’t think Burgess wrote any more. He was — and remains — best known for his satires and comical poems. Indeed, he’s the author of this famous poem, beloved by all children:

I never saw a Purple Cow,
I never hope to see one,
But I can tell you, anyhow,
I'd rather see than be one!

In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press in exchange for an honest review.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Astro the Seer cultivates the persona of a psychic to solve crimes but instead he uses his logical mind, with the help of his assistant Valeska Wynne. In each story (except the last) Valeska misses a few clues so that Astro needs to offer his explanation of the mystery. With its twenty-four short stories it is for me the type of book to dip into over a period of time.
Overall a collection of entertaining short stories.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Orginally published in 1912

1 - Missing John Hudson - Mrs Hudson approaches Asro the Seer as her husband has been missing for ten days
2 - The Stolen Shakepeare - the First Folio Shakespeare of skeptic Mr Barrister has been stolen.
3 - The MacDougal Street Affair - sceptical Officer McGraw needs help as a shop owner is being threatened
4. The Fanshawe Ghost - who is the ghost haunting the Farnshawe Farm in the Vandyke village
5. The Denton Boudoir Mystery - Edward Masson insists that Astro finds the murderer of his fiance Miss Elizabeth Denton
6. The Lorsson Elopement - Ruth Lorsson secretedly corresponds with Sherman Fuller, but how and why
7. The Calenson Kidnapping Case - Five year old Harold Calendon has beeb kidnapped with a demand for inside information on the Stock Exchange.
8. Miss Dalrymple Locket - Her locket that was lost has now been returned to her but how will it help in solving her father's will.
9. Number Thirteen - Why is a female found by Valeska terrified of the number"13".
10. The Trouble withTulliver - Astro aims to discover what is causing the problem with D.A. Tulliver.
11. Why Mrs Burbank Ran away - Why has Ellen Burbank left her husband Major George Burbank, who is frantic with worry
12. Mrs Selwyn's Emerald - Astro has been invited to the Selwyn' home as his first appearance in society as a guest but Mrs Selwyn's emerald is stolen.
13. The Assassins' Club - Miss Violet Mannering is worried about the behaviour of her fiance navel lieutenant Robert Cameron.
14. The Luck of the Merringtons - a three year old has found an opal and a shriveled black hand. But who do they belong to.
15. The Count's Comedy - Stolen jewels have been delivered to a Ethel Shaw by a dressed gorilla. Her brother wants Astro to solve the puzzle.
16. Priscilla's Presents - Priscilla Quarich has on the last five Saturdays received a gift from an unknown source. But who.
17. The Heir to Soothoid - due to a mix up at the hospital Colonel Mixter is unsure of who is his heir to his fortune.
18. The Two Miss Mannings - on another train a young lady asks for help from a Mr Jensen. But how can he find her.
19. Van Asten's Visitor - When lawyer Paul Van Asten arrived home he found a stranger claiming to be his sister. Locking her in, he contacts Astro to come immediately
20. The Middlebury Murder - Lt. Graw asks for Astro's help with a murder in the office of Mr Middlebury
21. Vengeance of the Pi Rho Nu - Pauline Wister is to marry Edward Farralon tomorrow but he has disappeared.
22. The Lady in Taupe - who is the lady dressed in taupe that is following playwright Lionel Pinkard and why.
23. Mrs Stellery's Letters - who is writing, in a complimentary style, to Mrs Stellery - A bit obvious
24. Black Light - can the theory of black light help Valeska trace the location of Astro - again an obvious solution.

[EuroHackie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a delightful collection of stories about Astro the Seer and his lovely assistant, Valeska. Astro makes his living as a palmist and fortune-teller, but he claims no actual psychic abilities, only extremely close attention to detail and feats of logic that give him a profitable sideline as a private detective. The stories were originally published between 1908-1912, and the collection is complete. There is also a bonus "biography" of Astro at the end for which I'm glad, considering he apparently died in WWI, a mere two years after the collection's beautifully romantic ending!

The mysteries include a range of things, from murder and kidnapping to erstwhile lovers longing to be together. There is a definite romantic thread that is woven throughout the collection, so if you don't like romance, steer clear. If, like me, you enjoy mysteries and romance, you're probably going to love this as much as I did! I was only halfway through when I purchased my own copy, mostly for the gorgeous illustrations that accompany each story. The final story is the absolute cherry on top and a perfect way to end the collection.

I knocked off a star because some of the solutions to the mysteries are based on science that has since been disproven, including a pretty ugly racist/sleepwalking idea that is so absurd I can't believe anyone ever took it seriously. Bleh. It is a slight stain and unfortunately keeping with the times, and obviously didn't deter me from buying my own copy of this collection to cherish and reread many times in the future.

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this collection of stories about Astro and Veleska, they totally read like old radio shows or classic mysteries. He pretends to be a psychic that solves crime with his analytical talents and Valeska is not only his secretary and eventually his girlfriend but helps with the side work. I also liked the notes at the end of the chapters. There was so much to love about this book I have really been lucky lately and getting five star reads in this book definitely qualifies. If you love a good old detective work or Sherlock Holmes type mysteries you love this book that short and quick but also good and so worth reading. I received this book from net galley and the publisher but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.

[Dan · Rating 4 out of 5]

My thanks to both NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for an advance copy of this collection of mysteries featuring a magician detective and his assistant during the early part of the twentieth century.

During the Golden Age of Detective stories, anyone could be a consulting sleuth or part-time investigator. Rich heirs, bored writers, socialites, domestic servants, ex-military members would take to the streets working with the police and invading the homes of people recovering from the trauma of theft or loss, asking questions freely, making observations, and having fun. Astro the Seer was a magician who used his skills at sleight of hand and his great intellect, along with assistant helped the police on numerous occasions, when he wasn't fleecing clients with palm readings and tarot cards. The Master of Mysteries by Gelett Burgess is a collection of stories featuring this intrepid twosome, finding lost objects, protecting the innocent, persecuting the guilty, and having fun while doing it.

Astrogen Kerby had learned that arts of magic and sleight of hand and misdirection on the streets of Cairo, something that he found he was very good at. Coming to America Kerby went to a premier college where he found an aptitude for science and rational thinking. Kerby moved to New York City, and in order to fund his private physics library began to use his skills as a magician and forecaster of the future to wrangle money from the rich and or gullible who came to see him. Astro the Seer, along with his assistant Valeska, and assistant who grew to be so much more, soon found himself helping police on their most difficult cases. Chasing down a mad blackmailing bomber, finding a missing husband, or even looking into a missing Shakespeare folio.

There are twenty-four tales contained in this volume and all are fun, and in most ways played fair with clues, though being a good magician Astro does tend to keep some discoveries under his turban, probably next to a rabbit. The mysteries are Holmes- pastiches, down to Astro pointing out occupations and relationships between husbands and wives, based on missing buttons, or stains on a lapel. However being a forecaster of the future, this makes sense, as a good fortune teller reads the person more than tea leaves, or tarot cards. His assistant Valeska grows to be more than a Watson, which adds a nice balance to the stories, and a fun dynamic to their relationship. As the stories progress so does Valeska's skills and importance to the detection of crimes. These are stories of their time, so there might be somethings that don't play right in today, but I don't think there is anything too bad. I could be looking at it through my eyes, and if I am wrong I apologize. I did find these fun stories and had a great time reading them.

Recommended for classic mystery readers and for those who miss not only the feeling but the way that classic Sherlock Holmes stories were presented. These are fun stories, as the writer was considered a great humorist, and even as the years have past still make a person smile. I might have read a story once before but I enjoyed being introduced to the author, and watching a professional like Astro the Seer hustle the marks, and solve crimes.

[Sue F · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun collection of period short mysteries…

Way back in the early twentieth century, Gelett Burgess wrote a series of short mysteries featuring “Astro the Seer”. Astro ostensibly uses his metaphysical and extrasensory talents, such as reading palms, calculating astrological profiles, and feeling magnetic vibrations, to help his clients. But he doesn’t really rely on the occult. Instead, behind the incense and the show, he is a logical thinker and a keen observer of small clues, and together with his assistant, Valeska, he researches and reasons his way through his cases. And along the way, he develops a reputation, not just as a seer, but as a “solver of inexplicable problems”.

The Master of Mysteries contains all twenty-four Astro cases, and they are a lot of fun. As with any collection, some are a bit more enjoyable than others, but I liked all of them, and was more than a little sad when I came to the end and realized there were no more. Of course, after more than a century, the stories read like historical mysteries. But human nature hasn’t changed that much (if at all!), and they still work. One case, for example, revolves around determining the biological parentage of a couple of potential heirs, which of course would not be an issue now, but was impossible then. But “The Heir to Soothoid” is still enjoyable today simply for the clever way Astro and Valeska manage to bring things to a satisfactory conclusion.

If there is anything that seemed a little off in the collection, it’s the hint of Pygmalion in Astro’s and Valeska’s relationship. I would have had a lot of trouble accepting that in a modern collection but was able to suspend my distaste given the time frame in which Burgess was writing. And the final story, which finally resolves their relationship, was my least favorite of the bunch. But even with that minor issue, The Master of Mysteries is well worth reading.

A couple of notes: First, there’s a fictional “biography” of Astro at the end which is kind of fun, and only contains one minor spoiler. So if you want to know a bit more about Astro, you can skip to the end and read that before starting the stories. And second, I really appreciated the footnotes, which mostly provided interesting historical background, but also helped out with terms that have simply fallen out of modern-day usage, such as “mull” – which is a soft, sheer muslin, if you were wondering! Finally, please keep in mind that I try to flight “star-flation” a bit, and a four-star review for me is a solid recommendation to read this book. And last, but not least, my thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for my review copy.

[Elsa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this collection of mysteries with Astro, the Seer of Secrets, and his pretty assistant Valeska. The stories were originally published in syndicated newspaper supplements in 1908-1909 as a stand-in for Sherlock Holmes, when Doyle didn’t feel up to writing Holmes stories, and features a “psychic” who actually uses deductions to work out solutions for his clients while pretending to feel vibrations and gazing into a crystal ball.

Many details make these stories remarkable, apart from being clever, funny and romantic. For instance, Valeska is a strong, independent young woman, trainee psychic & detective to Astro. There is surprisingly (considering the stories’ age) no racism or snobbery - although Burgess has fun describing Astro’s “oriental” charm (Astro’s Armenian) all characters, from different walks of life, described in the stories are treated sensitively and with respect. There are also plausible, fun solutions to the mysteries and very little of the secret criminal societies, over-the-top murder methods and melodramatic revenge dramas of Holmes (enjoyable in its own way).

The stories read astonishingly modern. They really could be a radio or tv series set in any time during the last 100 years, whereas Sherlock Holmes is very much a part of the Victorian age. It’s true that Astro often refers to now debunked and outdated theories of science (the Library of Congress edition does an excellent job with explanatory footnotes), but I found the theories interesting and entertaining to read about.

Highly recommended! I’m sad that Burgess didn’t write more Astro mysteries, I didn’t want this book to end.

[Cody · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm starting to realize I really appreciate a good short story mystery. These days, most mysteries are written as full length novels. There's nothing wrong with that, but there's just something about a short story that's so awesome. Being able to create interesting characters, mystery and resolution all in 30 pages or less must be quite a challenge. Astro and Valeska are such fun characters and while not all the mysteries are amazing, they're all really fun and there are some great ones in there.

Quick hits:
+ Astro is such an intriguing character. He feels like a more modern and social Holmes. He has great wit and is very intelligent.
+ Astro's relationship with Valeska was so refreshing. Sure, there was some romance there. BUT, Astro never puts Valeska down. He's constantly trying to train and challenge her so that she could be the best version of herself. He also actively relies on her during investigations and for his "day job".
+ Mysteries are mixed in style, hitting all the notes for mystery fans. Murders, robberies, missing persons, etc.
- Some racist language (unfortunately to be expected in stories that are 100 years old). I can only remember a couple of times in all 462 pages.
- Not as many memorable short stories. Enjoyable while you read them, but not as memorable as Sherlock for example (i.e. The Speckled Band, The Redheaded League, etc.).

Overall, I would highly recommend this for anyone who is a mystery fan or classic mystery fan. There's plenty to love here and there's also some refreshing takes in here. Now I'm off to find more short story mysteries to read!

[Darius Ostrowski · Rating 2 out of 5]

I am deep in the thralls of reading classic mysteries from the “golden age”, typically defined as those written between the two world wars, although there seems to be some latitude in the start and end dates. The two biggest entities reissuing some of these lost classics are “The Library of Congress Crime Classics” and the “British Library Crime Classics”. So far, I have to admit that the quality of the British Library novels are beating out us here in the states, with a few exceptions.

So we come to “The Master of Mysteries” by Gelett Burgess, a reissue from 1912 by the Library of Congress. This is a collection of 24 short stories featuring Astro, the Seer of Secrets, and his lovely assistant, Valeska. Pretending to be a psychic, Astro uses his powers of observation as well as his esoteric knowledge to solve all sorts of mysteries, from missing persons to stolen jewels to murder. Owing a lot to the style and manner of Sherlock Holmes, both true believers and skeptics are won over by Astro’s abilities to “read the crystals” and solve the problems.

This book was difficult to get through and a bit repetitive in execution, I had to take it in small doses to get through. I understand that this was written in a different time, but the way Astro was condescending to Valeska was hard to take, although Sherlock Holmes wasn’t known for his modesty either. A time capsule of what the early 1900s were like, but there are better collections out there to enjoy.

I requested and received a free advanced electronic copy from Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley. Thank you!

[Eric · Rating 3 out of 5]

Aided by his astute and useful assistant Valeska, Astro, the “Master of Mysteries”appears to enjoy a good living at the expense of his gullible clientele by reading palms and telling fortunes.In addition he uses his superb powers of observation and scientific reason, as well as her detective skillls, in the solving of a variety of crimes.

Their creator, Frank Gelett Burgess was a leading light in the San Francisco literary renaissance of the 1890s, an artist, illustrator, poet, humorist, critic and author. The stories were originally published pseudonymously and were first collected in 1912. It is good to have the original illustrations included in this edition which has an Introduction and extensive notes by Leslie S Klinger.

It is typical of the writer's quirky sense of humour that if you take the initial letter of the first word in each of the 24 tales, the sentence formed is "The author is Gelett Burgess".

The collection is best read in small instalments as there is a sameness to them, despite the range of crimes covered. It is also annotated to an annoying extent, with footnotes as abundant as in many academic texts.

In all, this amounts to an interesting wander into the realms of psychic-detection but I was not overly impressed. Vintage fun, but fundamentally frothy rather than complex.

Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the digital review copy.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Self-proclaimed Master of Mysteries and Seer of Secrets, Astro is a clever detective in the early 1900s. His cover is a psychic and magician and his lovely assistant Valeska is eager to become a full-fledged detective, too, in a man's world. Chemistry is found in spades...both in the laboratory and out. Mysteries abound and there is no shortage of clients who want to believe in psychics and other mediums to find loved ones or answers to other mysteries. Astro uses his keen power of observation to problem solve. So gratified are he and Valeska that they work pro bono. They thrive on deception.

A 200-year-old calendar, corpses, First Folio Shakespeare, jewels, Clewfinder and descent into madness are just a few mouthwatering cases the reader will enjoy. The illustrations are a delight!

Golden Age readers who seek something unusual and out of the ordinary, do read this compendium of 24 short stories, some lighter than others, all fascinating. Though there are similarities between Astro and Sherlock Holmes' thought processes, my preference remains Holmes. Still, these stories are worth reading! I really appreciate that such works are being showcased. Those who don't read this genre are truly missing out.

My sincere thank you to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this delightful collection.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a treat this book is. Written in 1912 and reprinted from the Library of Congress copy, we get to enjoy twenty-four gems of mystical mysteries. I wouldn't usually advise the reader to skip to the end but, at the end of the book is the "biography" of Astrogon Kirby (Astro) born in 1881. Then settle down to read one or two at a time.
He got his start in 1908 when he was broke and decided to set himself up on business as "a palmist, seer and detective, working informally with the NY Police Department and Insp. McGraw." Aided by his assistant, Valeska Wynne. While no more a psychic than my very clever pup, Astro is a sharp observer of people and body language and does lots of background checking on his clients. (Think Sherlock Holmes) The cases are varied, from homicide, kidnapping, to marriage and relationships, each story is a slice of its time, warts and all. I thoroughly enjoyed every one.
My thanks to the publisher Poisoned Pen Press and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Bev · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the inspired mystic to the man of practical analytic mind, the transition was instantaneous.. (p. 134)

Astro, Seer of Secrets, is Sherlock Holmes with mystic trappings. He is just as observant as Holmes--picking up on a visitor's occupation or habits by various indications in their manner of dress, items peeking out of pockets, stains on their fingers, etc.--but he hides his methods behind the mystery of the crystal-gazer. His beautiful assistant Valeska is also very observant, but misses just enough clues that Astro must make explanations and do the final reveal in grand detective style. As with most collections, The Master of Mysteries (1912) by Gelett Burgess contains a mixed bag of short stories with the strongest tales having a real mystery bent and the others having a more whimsical "secret" or two. The last story is the most whimsical--ending as it does with the finalization of Astro and Valeska's romance. ★★★ and a half. [rounded to four here]

Here are the synopses of all the stories:

"Missing John Hudson": Astro uses his "crystals to track down the missing husband of a respectable middle-aged woman. Has he left her for a younger woman, gotten himself murdered or committed a crime himself. Only the crystals know.

"The Stolen Shakespeare": Why would a man who doesn't believe in mystic mumbo-jumbo go to Astro instead of the police when his rare Shakespeare folio is stolen?

"The MacDougal Street Affair": This time Astro helps the police track down the person threatening to blow up a wholesale wine and grocery shop if the owner doesn't pay insurance money.

"The Fanshawe Ghost": Astro and Velaska investigate the ghostly goings on at Miss Fanshawe's Farm--the answer is more simple than she suspects.

"The Denton Boudior Mystery": Astro knows that the secret to a young woman's murder lies in the strange laughter heard just before she was found, a trace of blood and scratches, and a missing key.

"The Lorsson Elopement": There is no fee waiting for Astro this time--just the chance to help young love along as he deciphers a young couple's secret messages and assists their elopement.

"The Calendon Kidnapping Case": Astro goes to work hunting down the dastardly kidnappers of a five-year-old boy. The brutes who have the boy demand as ransom market tips from the boy's stockbroker father--for every tip that goes wrong, they send him a gruesome package with a child's toe. Astro must work quickly to prevent a whole foot from being delivered.

"Mss Dalrymple's Locket": A locket bears a coded message--Astro must discover if it leads to a fortune...or to disaster.

"Number Thirteen": Astro helps a young woman whose fear of the number thirteen goes beyond mere superstition.

"The Trouble with Tulliver": Astro is implored by Velaska to discover how a moral D.A. can be influenced to put off a vital rackets trial--without his having been bribed.

"Why Mrs. Burbank Ran Away": To answer that question Astro must seek out the meaning of the phrase "Kellem, Kellem."

"Mrs. Selwyn's Emerald": For the first time, the beneficiary of Astro's remarkable powers thinks it all a parlor trick when her emerald disappears and is recovered by the mystic. She'll never know how close she came to losing the gem forever....

"The Assassin's Club": Why would an upright navy lieutenant join something called the "Assassins' Club" and is it he who will really be assassinated--if only in character.

"The Luck of the Merringtons": Astro finds that the luck of the Merrington's lies in the hands of a little child--in the form of a mummified hand and a beautiful fire opal.

"The Count's Comedy": What is behind the appearance of an ape in a top hat, spats, and aviator goggles who comes bearing stolen jewels?

"Priscilla's Presents": Miss Priscilla is the recipient of a parade of anonymous presents. Is there a devious plan behind the gifts? Or just a romantic one?

"The Heir to Soothoid": Colonel Mixter comes to Astro to find out if his son is really his son--or which child born on a certain night is really his? Does he have a daughter instead of a son?

"The Two Miss Mannings": Astro helps Mr. Jenson find....and lose the love of his life--an unknown woman seen in passing on a subway train.

"Van Asten's Visitor": Paul Van Asten, a lawyer, comes home to find a strange woman in his apartment. She is very put out that he doesn't seem to recognize his own sister. Only she isn't...what could she be up to? Astro knows.

"The Middlebury Murder": Mr. Middlebury is shot in his office. Who did it? Was it his stenographer who resented his improper advances? Was it the elevator man who loved her? Was it the building manager who was sacked at Middlebury's insistence? Astro sees all--including the clues that point to the guilty party.

"Vengeance of the Pi Rho Nu": Who are the Pi Rho Nu and why are they taking revenge on a bridegroom the night before his wedding?

"The Lady in Taupe": The Lady in Taupe, as she is dubbed by the playwright Lionel Pinkard, seems to be following him around. At first Astro says she just wants a part in the man's new play, but then he spots a deeper motive.

"Mrs. Stellery's Letters": Who is sending Mrs. Stellery anonymous love letters? Astro (and this reader!) quickly spots the answer.

"Black Light": Astro has discovered that he not only depends on his assistant, but that he loves her as well. But she is not sure if it is love or just familiarity--so he agrees to absent himself for a time--if she wants him in her life, then she must use the skills he has taught her to find him and let him know.

First posted on my blog My Reader's Block. Please request permission before reposting. Thanks.

[Sam · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a collection of 24 “Astro the Seer” stories. Astro is basically a Sherlock-type detective who presents himself as a psychic. These stories were… mostly fine. On their own, or maybe mixed into a collection of other short fiction, I probably would have enjoyed them a lot more. But I felt like reading 24 all at once was a bit much. The stories are very short and to-the-point and the mysteries are pretty straightforward. And although I'm aware this is a product of its time, I didn’t like the attitude towards women and minorities that appeared in some of them.

As for this specific edition, I found the amount of footnotes to be distracting. Most of the information included in the footnotes was not necessary for understanding the story.

Thank you very much to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for providing this ARC in return for my honest review.

[MH · Rating 4 out of 5]

A collection of stories from 1908-1909, featuring a sham mystic who solves mysteries, Astro the Seer, and his beautiful, clever assistant Valeska. Individually the stories are often enjoyable, but they can vary pretty wildly, both in terms of plot (largely dealing with thieves and the occasional murderer, but Astro and Valeska also untangle curious romantic and domestic problems) as well as how much Burgess tells the reader (a few stories feel like the author has left out some information while jumping to his conclusion). But collectively, the stories can be quite interesting - Burgess incorporates more continuity than I would have expected, his 'modern world' and use of scientific ideas of the period can be a lot of fun, and the relationship between Astro and Valeska grows and deepens, becoming surprisingly emotionally resonant.

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never heard about this author before but I read a lot of his books since this one as I loved the style of writing and this mystery stories.
Astro and Valeska are an unusual and very entertaining couple of detectives, there's plenty of humour but there's also a solid mystery. Some stories are whodunnit, other aren't.
All of them are well plotted and entertaining.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine

[Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This group of short stories about Astro, basically a charlatan who covers up his investigations with a thick overlay of mysticism and props, and his lovely assistant Valeska presents a number of interesting puzzles, a fair helping of early 20th century prejudices, and the over-arc of a love story between the two detectives. An interesting historical curiosity, but rather a lot of silliness to read at one sitting.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a reissue of a book published in the early 1900s and it was great fun. This is a collection of linked short stories about Astro the Seer. Astro is a fortune teller, palm reader, and crystal ball gazer, who claims to solve mysteries by reading auras and “vibrations”, but who really relies on his keen powers of observation and deduction (a La Sherlock Holmes) and knowledge of human nature. Plus his beautiful assistant Valeska who gathers information for him. Very entertaining!

[Fraser Sherman · Rating 2 out of 5]

Astro is a private detective who combines Sherlock Holmes' deductive skills with the tricks used by stage mentalists to present himself as a psychic: he's not going over the crime scene because he's looking for clues, gosh no, he's attuning himself to the psychic vibrations.
It's a clever gimmick but Burgess isn't the writer Arthur Conan Doyle was and read collected the stories became a slog to get through after a while.

[Karen Hammond · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had not heard of this author before but loved the idea of the magician and his assistant solving mysteries. They were great stories , with classic mystery stories a bit like Sherlock Holmes but less clinical and with more humour. I will watch out for more of this authors work.

[Andréa]

Note: I accessed a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through Edelweiss.

[Ron Kastner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some stories are dated; science outdated or wrong. But fun stories and a subtle love story as well.

[MarilynLovesNature · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not great mysteries or great writing but the detective magician was an entertaining character. Good for light escape reading.

[Cecellia Rogers · Rating 1 out of 5]

I coudn't figure out what I was reading. (Maybe THAT was the mystery.)

[Scott · Rating 3 out of 5]

"good collection"

[Jane Schwarz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Astro, Seer of Secrets and Valeska Wynne, his assistant are featured in these reprinted short stories of Astro's cases.
In each story Astro explains the principles and theories of the time and how they are related to the solutions of his cases. There are also many footnotes explaining terms, words and people of the early 1900's.
The cases involve missing husband, wives or girlfriends. Some require retrieval of stolen manuscripts or jewels. And then there is kidnapping and murder. With help of the police inspector , who gets most of the credit, these stories are quick and enjoyable while also making fun of the serious tone of the Sherlock Holmes character that was popular at the time.
Thank you NetGAlley and Poisoned Pen Press for this e-galley of "The Master of Mysteries".

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.

The Master of Mysteries is a mystery featuring a magician with incredible cold reading and observational skills written by Gelett Burgess. Originally released in 1912, this reformat and re-release as part of the Library of Congress Crime Classics series from publisher Poisoned Pen Press is 496 pages in this edition and is available in paperback and ebook formats.

The original release of this book has the distinction of being the very first book published on Richard Lupoff's Surinam Turtle imprint, back in 1912 without an author credit. Additionally, the clever (if dated) volume included three ciphers for real life sleuths to solve, one of which was the name of the author. Burgess will be better known to most readers as the author of the children's "Goops" books and also has the dubious distinction of writing the "Purple Cow" poem, to the perennial delight of youngsters for more than a century: "I never saw a purple cow. I never hope to see one; But I can tell you, anyhow, I'd rather see than be one!".

Nevertheless, this is a collection of cases solved by main character Astro, the seer of secrets (and master of mysteries). There's a distinct Sherlock Holmes vibe to the way he notices details, seemingly pulls the solution to the mystery out of thin air, and then has to explain his process to his assistant, the lovely Valeska Wynne. 

The 24 short stories are more or less written to the same formula: a mystery, the drama, resolution with a seemingly impossible solution, and an explanation to Valeska pointing out the obscure details noted by Astro which synthesized into the correct answer. Although not derivative, it reminded me in some ways of a period version of "Psych", a TV series with a similar methodology. 

The author gets kudos for apparently being a very intelligent and humorous individual despite being born in Boston and raised as a Boston Elite. He soon ran away to California, getting a job as a professor at Berkeley and knocking over the Cogswell temperance statue. According to Wikipedia, we also have him to thank for coining the word "blurb". 

Four stars. This would be a superlative choice for fans of period mystery. The entire LoC Crime Classics series are worthwhile and this is a good addition. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

[Anjana · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was going to list all the individual stories and elaborate on each. It was only when I started to list them all out I realised how many of them were there. Not all of them are very long either, which meant I would be repeating myself for a significant part of the review as well.
So I finally gave in and decided to do this the simple way.
The introduction in this book is yet again one I would have appreciated better after I read the whole book because it talks of the interpretations of things we see within the chapters.
That said, I would recommend reading it at some point (either before or after) because it did make me think more about some aspects of the story. I was not as fond of the footnotes, which provided a lot of factual information but took me out of the short story that I was reading.
Our central character Astro is a mystic who reads hands, auras and even sometimes crystal balls. This is but a cover for his actual analytical mind. He looks less like the cover portrays him to be if I read the descriptions right. There is also a romantic angle that develops slowly (extremely so) between a single story and the next as he undertakes his investigation.
There are some underhanded techniques that he uses, which he passes off as 'seeing', but it is ultimately for the good of the people who come to seek his help, and it is easy to forgive him.
All the stories are not the same length, nor do they have the same arc of the plotline, but there are a few that felt a little repetitive.
This book is a good indicator of the time, place and attitudes of the kind of people described.
I think people who seek out reprints with different types of mystery content will enjoy this one.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.

[Vintagebooklvr · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 1/2 stars. Though this is one of the many creations made to be like Sherlock Holmes, Astro, the Seer of Secrets, has his own unique charm and reminds me a bit of the tv series Psych. Astro, with help from his female assistant Valeska, pretends to have occult powers which then he uses to solve problems and mysteries. Valeska plays a role similar to Watson, but she takes a much more active role in investigations and works solo to find out a lot of information that Astro needs. I'm actually surprised at what an active role she plays--even if usually out of the scene--to gather information when you consider the time period of many of these stories to be in the early 1900s.

It is a series of short stories that were published in newspapers or magazines so each can be read alone in pretty much any order without needing to know what happened before. It is longer than I expected, almost 500 pages. The stories take place in New York City and the characters come from all levels of society and nationalities which gives it a real flavor of the place and time. The stories range from misplaced jewels, a kidnapped child, espionage, theft and murder. There is also humor and a touch of romance.

I really enjoyed it. This is one of the hidden gems that can be found in a series that brings old mysteries back to the modern reader. I did not feel like Astro was a cheap imitation of Sherlock. There are some similarities but there are a lot of differences too.

Sit back and enjoy. Let yourself be dazzled by the Amazing Astro.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest opinion.