Fergus Hume was a prolific English novelist best known for his contribution to the mystery and detective fiction genre. Born in England in 1859, Fergusson Wright Hume later moved to New Zealand with his family, where he began his law studies before relocating to Melbourne, Australia. It was there that Hume recognized the popularity of detective novels and was inspired to write his own. His most celebrated work, 'The Mystery of a Hansom Cab' (1886), originally self-published, became a phenomenal success, not only in Australia but also in Britain and North America. Capitalizing on this success, Hume went on to write over 130 novels throughout his career. His works often include intricately plotted stories and dramatic twists, exemplified by titles such as 'The Silver Bullet', which delves into the mystery genre with a blend of suspense and acute observation of Victorian society. Hume's writing style is characterized by a combination of melodrama and a meticulous attention to the details of his characters and settings, reflecting the influence of earlier mystery purveyors like Wilkie Collins and Edgar Allan Poe. Hume made a significant contribution to shaping the detective novel format and remains an enduring figure in early crime fiction literature. He passed away in 1932, leaving behind a legacy of works that continue to entertain and influence writers within the genre.