The Clock Struck One by Fergus Hume

Name: The Clock Struck One
Author: Fergus Hume

The story revolves around a mysterious murder that takes place at a wealthy businessman's mansion. The victim is found dead in his study with no signs of forced entry or struggle. The investigation that follows reveals a complex web of relationships and motives among the characters, including the victim's wife, daughter, nephew, and business associates. As the detective digs deeper, he uncovers a series of surprising revelations and unexpected twists, leading to a dramatic conclusion.

By Fergus Hume · First published 1899 · Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Romance · 26 chapters · 75,403 words

First lines

Over the bridge which spans the railway two miles from Canterbury a girl was riding a bicycle. She was perfect mistress of her machine -- and nerves; for on the slope of the hill she let the wheels run freely, and did not trouble to use the brake. The white dust clouded the air as she spun down to the level; and the heat of the day -- a July noon -- was so great that she was fain to dismount for the sake of coolness. A wayside fence offered a tempting seat; and, with a questioning glance to right and left, the girl balanced herself lightly on the topmost rail. Here she perched in a meditative fashion, and fanned her flushed face with her straw hat. A pretty girl in so unconventional a position, unchaperoned and fearless, would have shocked the susceptibilities of our grandmothers. But this is the age of the New Woman, and the girl was a type of her epoch.

What this Textopian page supports

The Clock Struck One is listed on Textopian as a novel by Fergus Hume, dated 1899 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Fergus Hume
Date: 1899 CE
Language: English
Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Romance, Gothic Fiction, Literary Fiction
Length: 75,403 words
Structure: 26 chapters, 1,675 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering The Clock Struck One?
How does this novel by Fergus Hume fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Mystery first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Mystery — The plot revolves around unexplained events and the characters' attempts to uncover hidden truths, typical of the mystery genre.
Thriller — The tension surrounding the character Mr. Edermont's condition and the implications of Lady Burville's arrival create a suspenseful atmosphere.
Romance — The relationship between Dora and Dr. Scott serves as a central emotional thread, highlighting romantic themes.
Gothic Fiction — The setting and elements of isolation, along with the mysterious character of Mr. Edermont, align with gothic conventions.