The Magician

The Magician explores the dark and sinister influence of Oliver Haddo, who ensnares a young English woman engaged to another man, showcasing themes of obsession and manipulation. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century England, the novel delves into the struggles of her fiancé and friends as they attempt to rescue her from Haddo's hypnotic grip. The book also faced controversy, with Aleister Crowley accusing Maugham of plagiarism in a critique published in Vanity Fair, adding a layer of intrigue to its reception.