"The Keeper of the Door" by Ethel M. Dell is a compelling blend of romantic fiction, mystery, and suspense. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century England, this captivating novel follows the story of its protagonist, whose life is forever changed by a chance encounter. At its core, "The Keeper of the Door" explores themes of love, betrayal, and redemption, as the protagonist grapples with secrets from the past and struggles to uncover the truth. Ethel M. Dell masterfully weaves together a gripping narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning pages to unravel the mysteries that lie within. Through vivid descriptions and well-developed characters, the novel transports readers to a world filled with intrigue and danger, where nothing is as it seems. As the protagonist embarks on a journey of self-discovery, they are forced to confront their deepest fears and confront the demons of their past. With its unexpected twists and turns, "The Keeper of the Door" is a captivating tale that will leave readers guessing until the very end. Ethel M. Dell's masterful storytelling and expertly crafted plot make this novel a must-read for fans of romantic fiction and mystery alike.
From 1911 to 1939, Ethel May Dell Savage, better known by her pen name Ethel M. Dell, was a British writer of more than 30 bestselling romance novels and several short tales. Dell was born on August 2, 1881, to a middle-class family in Streatham, a London neighborhood. Her father was a clerk in the City of London, and she has an older sister and brother. Dell began writing stories at a young age, and many of them have been published in popular journals. Her stories were primarily romantic in nature, set in the British Raj and other former British colonial territories. Some thought her stories were too sexual. Dell worked on her first novel, The Way of an Eagle, for several years before releasing it with T. Fisher Unwin after being rejected by eight other publishers. The book was part of Unwin's First Novel Library, a series that celebrated a writer's first novel. The Way of an Eagle was first published in 1911 and went through thirty printings by 1915. In 1922, Ethel married Lieutenant-Colonel Gerald Tahourdin Savage, who resigned his service at the time of their marriage, leaving Dell as the family's sole support. Despite negative reviews from reviewers, she built a loyal fan base and earned between £20,000 and £30,000 per year. Her husband was loyal to her and zealously protected her privacy.