The Purple Fern by Fergus Hume

Name: The Purple Fern
Author: Fergus Hume

The story revolves around a mysterious murder that takes place at The Purple Fern, a popular London restaurant. The victim is a wealthy businessman, and the main suspect is his nephew, who stands to gain a large inheritance from his uncle's death. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that nothing is as it seems, and the truth behind the murder is slowly revealed through a complex web of relationships, motives, and deceit.

By Fergus Hume · First published 1890 · Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Drama · 26 chapters · 112,656 words

First lines

THE train to Crumel was late. Due at four o'clock, it failed to reach its destination, until ten minutes past the hour. This was not the fault of the branch-line authorities. The London express had been behind time at Werry Junction, whereby the local had been forced to wait. The delay mattered little to the majority of the passengers, as time in the wilds of Essex is of less value than a similar commodity in the metropolis. But Dr. Jerce, being a famous urban physician, felt annoyed, as he had come down hurriedly, in this unpleasant weather, to see a patient, and wished to be back in Harley Street by nine o'clock. Also Dr. Jerce was Napoleonic in his love for precision, and the failure of the Company to obey the time-table irritated his usually bland temper.

What this Textopian page supports

The Purple Fern is listed on Textopian as a novel by Fergus Hume, dated 1890 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: 1890 CE
Language: English
Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Drama, Historical Fiction, Romance
Length: 112,656 words
Structure: 26 chapters, 2,567 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Work identity for The Purple Fern by Fergus Hume
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering The Purple Fern?
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 a mysterious character, Osip, who is observing Dr. Jerce and the Baird orphans, suggesting elements of intrigue and suspense.
Thriller — The tension created by the unknown intentions of Osip and the potential danger surrounding the characters adds a thrilling aspect to the narrative.
Drama — The interpersonal relationships and emotional conflicts among characters, particularly regarding love and illness, highlight dramatic themes.
Historical Fiction — The setting and references to historical figures and events, such as Cromwell, provide a historical context to the story.