Greatest Mystery Novels of Wilkie Collins (Illustrated) (ePub)

Wilkie Collins' 'Greatest Mystery Novels of Wilkie Collins (Illustrated)' offers a captivating collection of works that pioneered the mystery genre and laid the foundation for detective fiction as we know it. The anthology includes seminal pieces such as 'The Woman in White' with its robust suspense and early sleuthing methods employed by Walter Hartright, while 'The Moonstone' establishes the essentials of a detective novel through its epistolary form. Furthermore, 'Armadale's intricate plot weaves a tale of murder and mistaken identity, and 'No Name' addresses the social implications of illegitimacy. Collins' adept integration of social commentary within his narratives and his distinctive 'sensation novel' style remain significant within the literary context of the nineteenth century, blending melodrama with psychological acuity.

Wilkie Collins, a contemporary of Charles Dickens, exerted a profound influence on the evolution of the mystery novel. His progressive social attitudes were revolutionary for the Victorian period, invariably spilling into his fiction. Collins' treatment of complex themes such as social injustice, the plight of women, and the legal system culminated in a series of works that not only entertain but also provoke thought and reflect the zeitgeist of his era. This intense engagement with the contemporary societal milieu may well have provided the impetus for Collins' narratives that continue to resonate with readers for their depth and their defiance of social norms.

This definitive collection is an indispensable compendium for devotees of classic literature and mystery aficionados alike. In each novel, Collins masterfully crafts an atmospheric tension that grips readers while introducing them to a cast of memorable characters and well-structured plots. The book is a testament to Collins' storytelling prowess and a must-read, not simply for its historical importance but for the sheer delight in unraveling the labyrinthine mysteries it harbors. For those yearning to immerse themselves in the origins of the detective genre and to witness the social landscape of Victorian Britain through the lens of thrilling narratives, this anthology is an exceptional choice.