The enduring appeal of Mr. Fortune lies in Bailey's skillful blend of suspense, complex plotlines and well-developed characters. The stories are intricate, often relying on medical knowledge, a field not often tapped by other writers of the detective genre at the time, which made him stand out. This sets him apart from the more action-oriented or theatrically inclined detectives. His quiet observation and meticulous attention to detail are his greatest strengths, allowing him to unravel seemingly impossible mysteries.
Unlike some of his more flamboyant contemporaries in detective fiction, Mr. Fortunes methods are subtle. He relies on his keen intellect and his ability to see connections that others miss. His surgical background provides him with a unique understanding of the human body and, by extension, human behavior.
Mr. Fortune's surgical training is crucial. Its what allows him to observe and interpret the subtle clues that other investigators might overlook. This element of his character is central to his success. He's not just solving crimes; he's dissecting them, examining the anatomy of the situation to find the truth.
The stories often feature unexpected twists and turns. Bailey masterfully crafts narratives that keep the reader guessing until the very end. The focus is always on the psychological elements of the crime, the motivations behind the actions, rather than just the action itself.
Mr. Fortune represents a specific type of detective fiction which some Australians feel is still valuable today. While perhaps not as widely known as other characters, his enduring appeal can be attributed to several factors.