The Exploits of Fidelity Dove
The Exploits of Fidelity Dove is a mystery novel by William Edward Vickers. It was first published in 1924 under the pen name David Durham and then again in 1935 under Vicker's more popular pen name Roy Vickers. It is considered one of the rarest mystery books of the twentieth century. Plot overview Fidelity Dove has been described as a femme fatale, a female master criminal, and an altruistic avenger. In the backmatter of one Vickers' other works she is described as "a lovely Puritan maid whose charm makes her irresistible - even to the detective whom she baffles at every turn." Fidelity is an ash blonde with violet eyes, and is always clad in grey, an outward reflection of her puritan beliefs. She has the face of an angel and her beauty and charm have enabled her to gather a gang of highly skilled men: an actor, a scientist, a lawyer and others to assist her in her crimes. Her exploits consist of twelve tales: A Face and a Fortune Suspense The Genuine Old Master A Classic Forgery The Gulverbery Diamonds The Merchant Princess Fourteen Hundred Percent A Deal in Reputations The Laughing Nymph Proverbs and Prophets The Meanest