In ‘A Matter of Millions, ‘ Anna Katharine Green delves into the complexities of human motives and societal intricacies, weaving a narrative that stands at the intersection of mystery and psychological drama. Rich with detailed characterizations and a meticulous plot structure, the novel reflects Green’s mastery of the detective genre, challenging readers to untangle a web of secrets surrounding a fortune, love, and betrayal. Set against the backdrop of an emerging urban America, the work exemplifies the literary shift of the late 19th century, characterized by a growing interest in psychological depth and intricate plotting, often drawing comparisons to contemporaries like Arthur Conan Doyle and Edgar Allan Poe. Anna Katharine Green, hailed as the mother of American detective fiction, was inspired by her upbringing in a household of lawyers and her early experiences in a male-dominated literary landscape. Her keen insights into societal norms and women’s roles during her lifetime deeply informed her writing, bringing to life nuanced female characters and morally complex situations that push the boundaries of the genre. Readers seeking an engaging blend of detective fiction and psychological exploration will find ‘A Matter of Millions’ a rewarding experience. With its layered narrative and vibrant prose, this novel not only entertains but invites critical reflection on the nature of greed, love, and the inexorable quest for truth.
عن المؤلف
Anna Katharine Green (1846–1935) was a pioneering figure in the American detective fiction genre, often credited as the mother of the detective novel in America. Her works predate those of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and her first novel, ‘The Leavenworth Case’ (1878), introduced elements of detection and suspense that would become hallmarks of the genre. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Green was well educated for a woman of her time, attending Ripley Female College in Vermont. Her keen interest in poetry transmuted into crafting complex mystery plots, combining her literary style with intricate legal and procedural details. Green’s work often featured strong female characters, which was uncommon in her era and remains notable today. ‘A Matter of Millions’ (1890) is one such novel wherein she weaves a gripping narrative of inheritance and deceit, showcasing her expertise in creating tension and crafting sharp, elaborate puzzles for the reader to unravel. Green’s influence extended widely, and she inspired generations of writers, including Agatha Christie. Green’s legacy endures through her more than 40 novels and numerous short stories that continued to captivate readers well into the twentieth century, and her distinct literary contributions to the detective genre are still celebrated by scholars and enthusiasts alike.