Fergus Hume 
Miss Mephistopheles 
A Novel (Sequel to Madame Midas.)

In Fergus Hume’s captivating novel ‘Miss Mephistopheles’, the reader is transported to the atmospheric streets of Victorian London where a mysterious and alluring woman named Miss Mephistopheles navigates the complexities of her society. The novel is a classic example of Victorian sensational fiction, filled with intricate plots, dark secrets, and unexpected twists that keep the reader on the edge of their seat. Hume’s writing style is vivid and evocative, immersing the reader in the sights, sounds, and intrigue of the era. The book is a fascinating exploration of the juxtaposition between good and evil, beauty and darkness, and the complexities of human nature. Fergus Hume’s ‘Miss Mephistopheles’ is a must-read for fans of Victorian literature, mystery, and suspense. With its compelling narrative and richly drawn characters, this novel is sure to captivate and entertain readers of all backgrounds.

About the author

Fergusson Wright Hume, known as Fergus Hume, was an English novelist principally remembered for his mystery and detective fiction, and notably his first novel, ‘The Mystery of a Hansom Cab’ (1886), which became a great success. Born on July 8, 1859, in England, Hume moved to New Zealand with his family during his early life and later relocated to Melbourne, Australia, where he became a barrister. It was in Melbourne that he wrote his debut novel, which went on to sell hundreds of thousands of copies, outstripping works by contemporaries like Conan Doyle. After the success of his first novel, Hume went on to publish over 100 mysteries, often focusing on ingenious plots and the exploits of brilliant detectives. Among his notable works is ‘Miss Mephistopheles’ (1890), a lesser-known yet intriguing example of his exploration into the criminal underbelly and the fin de siècle society’s fascination with both moral ambiguity and the supernatural. In ‘Miss Mephistopheles’, Hume offers readers an intricate puzzle combined with his trademark flair for vivid characters and sharp dialogue. His literary style, characterized by detailed scene-setting and a keen understanding of the human psyche, influenced the development of the detective fiction genre. Hume died on July 12, 1932, but left behind a rich legacy in the form of his extensive bibliography that remains significant to the critique of genre fiction and the evolution of crime literature.