The Mind Master

"The Mind Master" by Arthur J. Burks is a two-part science fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Lee Bentley and Ellen Estabrook, recently returned from a terrifying adventure in Africa where Bentley's brain was switched with that of an ape by a mad scientist, Caleb Barter. As they attempt to regain normalcy in New York City, they are drawn back into Barter's horrifying machinations as he resurfaces, threatening lives and sanity with his sinister plans. The opening of the novel sets a tense atmosphere as Bentley and Estabrook disembark from their ship, anxious about their past yet hopeful for the future. However, they soon encounter news of a malevolent figure known as the "Mind Master," who begins to execute a series of chilling threats. After witnessing a shocking event—the appearance of a mutilated man just after reading about the Mind Master’s dark intentions—Bentley is propelled into action, realizing the nightmare is not over. He reflects on his harrowing experience as he grapples with the implications of Barter’s return and the potential danger facing him and his fiancé. With a chilling reminder of the ape-like transformation he endured, the stakes escalate as Bentley decides to seek out the truth behind Barter's latest scheme.