64 pages 2 hours read

Wilkie Collins

The Moonstone

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1868

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Moonstone by Wilkie Collins is a Victorian mystery novel first published in 1868. It follows the story of Rachel Verinder, who receives a valuable diamond stolen from India, as a birthday gift. The diamond disappears the next morning, sparking a complex investigation led by Detective Sergeant Cuff, uncovering themes of reputation, evidence versus faith, and memory's unreliability. The source text contains references to death by suicide and Victorian-era prejudices surrounding Indian religion and culture.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Wilkie Collins' The Moonstone is widely praised for its pioneering structure and engaging plot, often regarded as the first modern detective novel. Readers appreciate its suspense and rich character development. However, some critique the pacing, finding it slow at times. Overall, it's celebrated for paving the way for the detective fiction genre.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Moonstone?

Readers who enjoy The Moonstone by Wilkie Collins typically appreciate classic detective fiction and intricate plots. They often have a fondness for Victorian literature and might also enjoy Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle or Bleak House by Charles Dickens for similar themes of mystery and social commentary.

Recommended

Reading Age

14+years

Book Details

Genre

Mystery / Crime Fiction

Classic Fiction

Historical Fiction

Period

Victorian Period

Victorian Literature / Period

Themes

Natural World: Appearance & Reality

Society: Class

Society: Colonialism

Topics

History: World