In Paris, surgeon Arthur Burdon and his fiancé are introduced to Oliver Haddo, a wealthy Englishman from an old family who claims to be a magician trained in the occult. At first they are unconvinced and irritated by Haddo's boasts; however he soon demonstrates his powers in more and more fateful ways.

The character of Oliver Haddo is an unflattering caricature of the English occultist Alistair Crowley, whom Maugham had met while living in Paris. Crowley himself wrote a review in Vanity Fair in which he accused Maugham of plagiarizing various other novels, signing off as "Oliver Haddo." Most critics dismissed these allegations.

If you enjoy atmospheric supernatural fiction with literary depth, this chilling tale of occult power and manipulation will captivate you from the first page. Maugham's masterful portrayal of a sinister magician and his victims creates an unforgettable gothic experience that horror and literary fiction fans alike will devour. Perfect for readers who appreciate classic supernatural thrillers with psychological complexity and dark, foreboding atmosphere.