Mysterious Waye

by P. C. Wren

First published 1930

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2.5(5)

A figure known as Mysterious Waye becomes the centre of an international puzzle involving concealed identity, pursuit and the organisation called or symbolised by ‘The Unsetting Sun’. Characters who believe they understand Waye’s allegiance repeatedly discover that appearances have been deliberately constructed, and personal attachments become inseparable from the effort to uncover the truth.

The novel moves Wren’s characteristic themes of disguise and honour into an interwar thriller. Military courage remains important, but information, impersonation and psychological pressure drive the action. Its central mystery asks whether identity is defined by birth and reputation or by the loyalties a person chooses when no public explanation is possible.