Mary Fortune 
The Detective’s Dream 

In Mary Fortune’s ‘The Detective’s Dream’, readers are taken on a thrilling journey through the world of 19th-century detective fiction. The novel follows the adventures of a clever detective as he unravels a mysterious case filled with intrigue and suspense. Fortune’s writing style is characterized by its vivid descriptions, fast-paced plot, and intricate character development, making this book a compelling read for fans of the genre. Set against the backdrop of Victorian England, ‘The Detective’s Dream’ reflects the societal norms and values of the time while also challenging them through the protagonist’s innovative detective work. Fortune’s ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats while also delving into deeper themes sets this novel apart in the world of detective fiction. Mary Fortune’s background as a prolific writer of mystery and detective stories for popular magazines of her time influenced her creation of ‘The Detective’s Dream’. Drawing from her own experiences and observations of society, Fortune crafted a novel that showcases her keen understanding of human nature and her talent for crafting intricate plots. Fans of classic detective fiction and Victorian literature will find ‘The Detective’s Dream’ to be a captivating and engaging read that offers both entertainment and insight into the era.

About the author

Mary Fortune, born Mary Helena Wilson in 1833, was a significant yet often overlooked figure in the annals of detective fiction. Renowned for her work in the burgeoning field of crime literature in Australia, she wrote under various pseudonyms, the most famous of which being Waif Wander. In a literary career that spanned over four decades, Fortune’s contributions to the Australian Journal alone encompass a remarkable output of over 500 stories, including her seminal work ‘The Detective’s Dream.’ This piece forms a part of the extensive series detailing the adventures of detective Mark Sinclair and is recognized for its ingenuity and its pioneering influence on the detective fiction genre. Fortune’s narrative style, characterized by intricate plotting and a detailed understanding of the criminal mind, pre-dated the detective fiction wave led by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and is considered a precursor to the mystery stories that followed. Despite her literary achievements, Fortune faced personal hardships throughout her life, which were often reflected in the complex characters and dark themes of her writing. Her legacy endures as a testament to her contributions to the genre, and the exploration of her work continues to gain momentum among scholars of Victorian-era literature and crime fiction enthusiasts. Notably, Fortune remains one of the earliest female writers to have made a considerable impact on the detective fiction landscape (Sussex, 1988).