THE MYSTERY NOVELS OF WILKIE COLLINS (ePub)

Wilkie Collins, born William Wilkie Collins on January 8, 1824, in London, England, is revered as a pioneering figure in the development of the mystery and detective novel, foreshadowing even the works of Arthur Conan Doyle. Collins, a contemporary and friend of Charles Dickens, embarked on a literary career that saw the fusion of gothic horror and realistic social critique, weaving captivating narratives with keen observations of Victorian society. His novel 'The Woman in White' (1860) is often regarded as one of the first mystery novels, and it, along with 'The Moonstone' (1868), solidified his reputation as a master of suspense and the pioneer of the 'sensation novel' genre. Through his career, Collins tackled subjects challenging Victorian norms, including critiques of the marriage laws and an exploration of social injustices. His works often featured strong and complex female characters, a notable divergence from typical depictions of women in 19th-century literature. Collins' opus contributed significantly to the legal thriller genre and laid the groundwork for modern detective stories. Although health issues plagued his later years, Wilkie Collins' literary legacy endures, with 'THE MYSTERY NOVELS OF WILKIE COLLINS' serving as a testament to his enduring influence on literature and the mystery genre in particular.