Richard Marsh, born Richard Bernard Heldmann (1857–1915), was a prolific British author best known for his supernatural and horror fiction. He began his writing career as a contributor to boys' journals and magazines under his birth name before adopting his pseudonym with the release of his acclaimed novel 'The Beetle' (1897), which overshadowed even Bram Stoker's 'Dracula' in its initial popularity. While 'The Beetle' remains his most famous work, Marsh wrote numerous other novels, short stories, and dramas that solidified his reputation as a master of suspense and the uncanny. 'Miss Arnott's Marriage' is a testament to Marsh's versatility, showcasing his ability to pivot from the genres of gothic horror to domestic romance and social commentary. His literary style is characterized by a blend of intrigue, melodrama, and wit, often exploring themes of identity, the supernatural, and Victorian society. Marsh's works illustrate an ability to capture the anxieties of his time while also entertaining a diverse audience. Today, scholars and enthusiasts of Victorian literature continue to study his contributions to the period's genre fiction, and his stories remain a valuable part of the literary canon reflecting the era's peculiar fascinations.