Arthur Morrison 
The Mysterious Cases of Martin Hewitt 
25 Mysteries & Detective Stories

In ‘The Mysterious Cases of Martin Hewitt’ by Arthur Morrison, readers are introduced to the character of Martin Hewitt, a private detective with a keen eye for detail and a sharp wit. Set in late 19th century London, the book consists of a series of short stories that follow Hewitt as he solves intricate and puzzling mysteries with his deductive reasoning. The narrative style is reminiscent of other detective fiction of the time, with a focus on clever plotting and suspenseful twists that keep readers engaged throughout each case. Morrison’s attention to detail in describing the setting and characters adds a rich layer of depth to the stories, making them both entertaining and thought-provoking. Arthur Morrison, a contemporary of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, was known for his realistic portrayal of Victorian London in his works. It is believed that his experiences as a journalist and social reformer influenced his writing, giving his stories a sense of authenticity and relevance. Fans of classic detective fiction will appreciate the clever storytelling and intricate plots found in ‘The Mysterious Cases of Martin Hewitt’, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the genre.

A propos de l’auteur

Arthur Morrison (1863–1945) was an English writer best known for his detective stories featuring the character Martin Hewitt, investigator. Morrison’s work in the detective fiction genre is exemplified in ‘The Mysterious Cases of Martin Hewitt’ (1894), a collection that showcases Hewitt’s ingenious deductive skills. Born in the East End of London, Morrison’s early experiences provided him with a gritty backdrop for his later narratives that often depicted the harsh realities of working-class life. His authorial forte lay in combining realism with the detective narrative, a literary modus that brought to light the lesser-seen underbelly of London. Furthermore, Morrison’s contributions to the genre were recognized as a bridge from the sensation novels of the 1860s and 70s to the detective stories that proliferated in the early 20th century. In addition to his detective stories, he wrote influential social novels such as ‘A Child of the Jago’ (1896), which depicted slum life and contributed to social discourse of the time. With a keen eye for detail and a profound sense of social justice, Morrison’s works remain significant for their portrayal of the human condition within the urban landscape.