The Mandarin's Fan

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

36346

Title

The Mandarin's Fan

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set in Victorian England, this mystery novel follows Rupert Ainsleigh, heir to a cursed estate, who marries the poor Olivia Rayner to fulfill an ancient prophecy. When Olivia's wealthy aunt is murdered, a complex web of intrigue involving Chinese assassins, a mysterious fan, and a corrupt lawyer unfolds. Blending gothic atmosphere with detective suspense, the story explores themes of fate, greed, and the supernatural.

Summary up to 500 words

In Fergus Hume's *The Mandarin's Fan*, the narrative unfolds at Royabay, the ancestral home of the Ainsleigh family, which is plagued by a centuries-old curse. The prophecy dictates that a poor Ainsleigh must wed a poor maid to unlock wealth from 'holy ashes.' Rupert Ainsleigh, the last of the line, intends to marry the impoverished Olivia Rayner, despite the disapproval of his wealthy but difficult aunt, Miss Wharf. Following Miss Wharf's mysterious death, the story shifts to a complex murder investigation led by Detective Rodgers. Evidence initially points to Rupert, but the case deepens with the involvement of Chinese assassins, Tung-yu and Hwei, who serve the superstitious Mandarin Lo-Keong. These men operate under the orders of a deity, Kwang-ho, executing a ritual involving a valuable fan on alternate days. The investigation reveals that Miss Wharf's maid, Miss Pewsey, orchestrated the murder to secure an inheritance and frame Rupert. The plot thickens with the escape of the villainous lawyer Burgh and the deaths of the assassins in a struggle over the fan. Ultimately, the Mandarin reveals that Rupert's marriage and the destruction of the fan have fulfilled the prophecy, bringing gold from the ashes. The story concludes with the Ainsleighs finding happiness and wealth, while the supernatural curse is lifted. The narrative explores the interplay between fate and human malice, demonstrating how greed and jealousy drive the characters to violence, only for destiny to intervene and restore order. The tale serves as a classic detective mystery where supernatural elements mask a very human crime, ultimately resolving with the triumph of love and fortune over ancient superstition.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Fiction
• Mystery