TEHRAN-A collection of detective stories titled “Madam Sara” has been published in Persian by Morvarid Publication.

It is the translation of the book “The Sorceress of the Strand,” written by Elizabeth Thomasina Meade (L. T. Meade) and co-written by Robert Eustace, in which “Madam Sara” is one of the short stories.

Ramin Azar-Bahram has translated the book, originally released in 2006. It has been published in 189 pages, ISNA reported.

The book is a collection of periodical mystery stories that appeared in The Strand magazine from 1893 to 1903. These stories are crime fiction, similar to the stories of Sherlock Holmes which also appeared in The Strand. They feature the criminal genius villain, Madame Sara, and tell stories of medical mysteries, and dangerous criminal women, and explore themes related to gender and consumerism.

At the heart of “Madam Sara” lies a compelling anthology that marries the intrigue of detective fiction with the nuanced depth of character study, hallmarking a distinctive place within the literary landscape of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 

The collection, consisting of tales woven with a rich tapestry of literary styles, showcases an admirable diversity in storytelling. This anthology is particularly notable for capturing the essence of the time, blending the suspenseful elements of the mystery genre with the sophisticated exploration of social narratives, and highlighting the nuanced and often overlooked perspectives of women within societal confines. 

The contributors, L.T. Meade and Robert Eustace bring a remarkable synergy to the anthology, combining Meade's prolific writing career, particularly in the realm of literature for young women, with Eustace's expertise in the field of science and his keen eye for detail. 

This unique collaboration infuses the collection with a depth of realism and scientific intrigue, positioning it at a unique crossroads of literary and cultural movements. Their collective work not only entertains but also serves as a critique and reflection of societal norms and the complexities of human behavior during their era. 

“Madam Sara” offers readers not just a mosaic of thrilling detective stories but an opportunity to journey through a pivotal era in literary history. It beckons to those with a fondness for mystery and a curiosity about the past, presenting a gateway to explore the convergence of science, society, and storytelling. Beyond mere entertainment, this collection serves as a scholarly resource that enriches one's understanding of the interplay between genre fiction and cultural commentary, making it a crucial addition to the libraries of both the casual reader and the discerning scholar.

L. T. Meade (1844–1914) was a prolific children's author of Anglo-Irish extraction. Moving from Ireland to London as a young woman, after the death of her mother, she studied in the Reading Room of the British Museum in preparation for her intended career as a writer.

The author of close to 300 books, Meade wrote in many genres but is best known for her girls' school stories. She was one of the editors of the girls' magazine, Atalanta from 1887-93, and was active in women's issues. She died in 1914.

Robert Eustace (1869–1943) was the pen name of Eustace Robert Barton, an English doctor and author of mystery and crime fiction with a theme of scientific innovation. He often collaborated with other writers, producing several works with the author L. T. Meade and others. 

SS/SAB