At War with Society; or, Tales of the Outcasts

"At War with Society; or, Tales of the Outcasts" by James M'Levy is a compilation of late 19th-century detective stories, told from the point of view of an experienced police detective, detailing his interactions with a variety of outlaws and societal rejects. The collection features ingenious thieves such as Jean Brash, as well as other intriguing characters, all of whom offer distinctive narratives centered around the themes of criminal behavior, ethics, and the repercussions of societal indifference. Opening with M'Levy's candid and cynical perspective on crime, the book immediately draws readers into the world, where the detective reflects on the intelligence of criminals and the shortcomings of a justice system that seems powerless to stop them. The case of Jean Brash, a crafty and cunning thief, highlights the complex dynamic between crime and the wider community, as the detective masterfully mixes humor and astute observations to reveal the vulnerabilities of both perpetrators and victims alike, laying the groundwork for more tales of crime and social critique.