"The Insidious Dr. Fu-Manchu" is the first book in the Fu-Manchu series, about the notorious evil mastermind. In the crime fiction world, Fu-Manchu stands on equal grounds with Professor Moriarty, Sherlock Holmes' nemesis. Rohmer created an archetypal villain who is very much a product of his times, and a reflection of the social and political conditions. Fu-Manchu's plans are always attacked and challenged by Detective Nayland Smith, who gives his all to defeat the mad doctor. A compelling and fast-paced read, this novel is the wonderful beginning to this amazing villain's career.