The Magician

Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century England, the story follows Oliver Haddo, a sinister figure who ensnares a young woman engaged to another, drawing her into his hypnotic influence. The narrative unfolds with the desperate attempts of her fiancé and friends to rescue her from Haddo's grasp. Maugham's own experiences in medical training inform the story, reflecting themes of obsession and manipulation. Controversy surrounded the book following a critique by Aleister Crowley, who accused Maugham of plagiarism, adding a layer of intrigue to its publication history.