Fergus Hume, born Fergusson Wright Hume on July 8, 1859, in England but raised in New Zealand, was a prolific English novelist best known for his contribution to the mystery and thriller genres. After his education and a brief period working as a barrister's clerk, Hume turned his passions towards writing. His frustration with the lack of exciting crime novels prompted him to write his own, leading to his most famous work, 'The Mystery of a Hansom Cab' (1886), which became a phenomenal success. Set in Melbourne, the novel resonated with its authentic portrayal of urban life and the intricacies of criminal investigation. To date, it remains a classic in mystery fiction. Following the success of his breakout novel, Hume went on to write over 130 novels, etching his place as a significant figure in the development of crime fiction. Among his vast contribution is the collection 'British Mysteries - Fergus Hume Collection: 21 Thriller Novels in One Volume', which showcases his narrative prowess and ability to craft compelling whodunits. Hume's literary style is characterized by his intricate plots, attention to detail, and the use of 'red herrings' to mislead readers. While he never achieved the same level of acclaim as his first work, Hume's novels have been admired for their imaginative plots and contribution to the genre. He passed away on 12 July 1932, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence the mystery genre. Hume's work has been critical to the development of the detective story, with practitioners of the genre acknowledging his pioneer status.