Fergus Hume 
A Traitor in London 

Fergus Hume’s ‘A Traitor in London’ is a gripping mystery novel set in the heart of Victorian London. The story follows the protagonist, a young detective, as he unravels a complex web of deceit and betrayal. Hume’s writing style is characterized by its fast-paced narrative, intricate plot twists, and vivid descriptions of the bustling cityscape of 19th-century London. The novel’s suspenseful atmosphere and carefully crafted clues will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the final revelation. Fergus Hume, a prolific writer of detective fiction, drew inspiration for ‘A Traitor in London’ from his own experiences working as a law clerk in Australia. His keen eye for detail and passion for storytelling shine through in this compelling tale of crime and intrigue. Hume’s ability to create realistic characters and engaging plotlines has cemented his reputation as a master of the mystery genre. I highly recommend ‘A Traitor in London’ to fans of classic detective fiction and anyone interested in exploring the darker side of Victorian society. Hume’s skillful storytelling and clever plot twists make this novel a must-read for lovers of suspenseful mysteries.

About the author

Fergusson Wright Hume, known as Fergus Hume, was an English novelist particularly famous for his mystery and detective novels. Born on July 8, 1859, in England, Hume moved to New Zealand with his family in his early teenage years. He later settled in Australia, where he took up the practice of law. Hume’s trajectory into literary fame began with his profound appreciation for the burgeoning genre of detective fiction, and his dissatisfaction with contemporary works led him to craft his own stories. His first and most famous novel, ‘The Mystery of a Hansom Cab’ (1886), set in Melbourne, became a phenomenal success and stands as a seminal work in the detective fiction genre. Following this early triumph, Hume relocated back to England, where he continued to write. ‘A Traitor in London’ is one of the many books he penned after establishing himself as a noteworthy author. Hume’s literary oeuvre is characterized by its intricate plots, vivid characters, and the atmospheric settings that range from the metropolises of the British Empire to the quiet English countryside. Over the course of his career, he wrote over 130 novels, exploring themes of crime, mystery, and the pursuit of justice, while appealing to the public fascination with sensational stories. Hume passed away on July 12, 1932, but his legacy endures as a pioneer in the genre of detective fiction, influencing subsequent generations of writers.