Armadale (Mystery Classic) (ePub)

Wilkie Collins, born William Wilkie Collins on January 8, 1824, in London, England, is considered one of the pioneers of the detective and suspense novel. Trained in the law, Collins shifted his vocation toward literature, forging a close working relationship with Charles Dickens, which greatly influenced his literary pursuits. His novels often unfolded in complex, serialized formats, a popular Victorian mode for literature dissemination. Collins' oeuvre is characterized by intricate plots, attention to detail, and a keen psychological insight, which manifests in vivid characterization and the exploration of contemporary social issues. Notably, his novel 'Armadale' (1866), a work that exemplifies his mastery in creating compelling mystery classics, intricately weaves themes of identity, coincidence, and the concept of doppelgängers. Another significant contribution that solidifies his status as a literary innovator is 'The Woman in White' (1859), widely regarded as one of the earliest mystery novels and a seminal work in the sensation fiction genre. Collins's psychological thriller 'The Moonstone' (1868) is often cited as the first modern English detective novel. His writing style, which favors the suspenseful unfolding of the narrative and the subtle social commentary, paved the way for future generations of mystery and thriller writers. Collins's contributions to literature endured beyond his death on September 23, 1889, ensuring his legacy as a writer who enriched the fabric of the mystery and suspense genres.