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52 pages 1 hour read

The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel: Genius, Power, and Deception on the Eve of World War I

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2023

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Book Brief

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Douglas Brunt

The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2023
Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

Europe • 1910s

Publication Year

2023

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In 1913, Rudolf Diesel, a renowned inventor of the internal combustion engine, disappeared mysteriously aboard the SS Dresden, sparking speculation about his fate, including assassination rumors. Despite extensive investigations, his true end remains unknown, leading to theories ranging from suicide to defection to England and connections with notable figures like John D. Rockefeller and Kaiser Wilhelm II. The book includes descriptions of domestic violence, death by suicide, and suicidal ideation, as well as references to racism, xenophobia, nationalism, and misogyny.

Mysterious

Informative

Dark

Suspenseful

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.4

6,665 ratings

86%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Douglas Brunt's The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel offers a compelling mix of historical intrigue and thorough research. Positively, the book is praised for its engaging narrative and meticulous detail that brings Diesel's story to vivid life. However, some reviewers feel the pacing occasionally lags and some technical explanations are dense. Overall, it's a riveting read for history enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel?

Readers who enjoy The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel by Douglas Brunt are captivated by historical mysteries and technological intrigue, much like fans of Erik Larson's Devil in the White City. They appreciate meticulously researched plots that blend biography, historical events, and suspense, offering fresh insights into industrial pioneers.

4.4

6,665 ratings

86%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

Europe • 1910s

Publication Year

2023

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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