Twelve Red Herrings

Dive into a world of captivating twists and turns with Jeffrey Archer's *Twelve Red Herrings*, a masterful collection of short stories that will keep you guessing until the very last page. From the internationally bestselling author of *Kane & Abel*, *As the Crow Flies*, and *Honor Among Thieves*, Archer delivers a dozen intricately plotted tales, each brimming with richly developed characters and unexpected climaxes. This is more than just a collection of short stories; it's an intellectual playground where Archer challenges the reader to become an active participant. Each story presents a unique dilemma: an imprisoned man convinced his victim lives, a driver haunted by a relentless pursuer, an artist facing her big break, a woman crafting the perfect birthday, and even a desperate escape from Saddam Hussein's Iraq. How will these individuals react when faced with opportunity, peril, or a seemingly insurmountable problem? More importantly, Archer dares you to ask: What would *you* do? *Twelve Red Herrings* is celebrated for its ingenuity and the clever use of misdirection. Each story is a carefully constructed puzzle, designed to deceive and delight. But the real genius lies in Archer's challenge to the reader to identify the titular "red herring" hidden within each narrative. These cleverly concealed clues add an extra layer of engagement, transforming the reading experience into an interactive game of deduction. Beyond the initial twelve stories, Archer offers even further rewards for the discerning reader. The final tale presents not one, but four potential endings, inviting you to choose your own conclusion. This unconventional approach showcases Archer's playful relationship with his audience and reinforces the theme of unpredictable outcomes that permeates the entire collection. First published in 1994 in the UK, *Twelve Red Herrings* showcases Archer's signature storytelling prowess: a blend of suspense, humor, and a keen understanding of human nature. This edition, a 1995 Mass Market Paperback from HarperCollins Publishers Canada, Limited, offers a portable and accessible way to experience Archer's brilliance. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to his work, prepare to be thoroughly entertained and utterly deceived by the ingenious *Twelve Red Herrings*. Critics have praised Archer's ability to craft compelling narratives with memorable characters and surprising resolutions, making this collection a must-read for fans of short stories and suspenseful fiction. Get ready to sharpen your wits and unravel the mysteries within but be warned, nothing is quite as it seems!