120 years ago, the first Arsène Lupin story was published.
Maurice Leblanc's swashbuckling gentleman thief, and brief resident of Number 8 Rue Crevaux, is a compelling, formidable figure. Although you root for him, you don't necessarily like him. He has the attitude of, "It's my France and you're living in it."
I certainly got the impression when I learned there was an immersive game about him at Opera Garnier.
Leblanc distinguishes himself by incorporating French history into his stories. For instance, the story where he steals the necklance that Louis René de Rohan was tricked into buying for Marie Antoinette.
And 'The Hollow Needle' references a near literal wealth of history.
The stories were also very atmospheric. If you read them, you will see what I mean.
