The Moonstone by Wilkie Collins. Introduction and Notes by David Blair, Rutherford College, University of Kent The Moonstone, a priceless Indian diamond which had been brought to England as spoils of war, is given to Rachel Verrinder on her eighteenth birthday. That very night, the stone is stolen. Suspicion then falls on a hunchbacked housemaid, on Rachel’s cousin Franklin Blake, on a troupe of mysterious Indian jugglers, and on Rachel herself. The phlegmatic Sergeant Cuff is called in, and with the help of Betteredge, the Robinson Crusoe-reading loquacious steward, the mystery of the missing stone is ingeniously solved.
Dive into the intricate world of mystery and suspense with Wilkie Collins' masterpiece, "The Moonstone," a cornerstone of 19th-century British literature and widely considered one of the first and greatest detective novels ever written. This meticulously crafted reprint, published by Thomas Nelson and Sons in 2004, offers a fresh encounter with a timeless classic. At the heart of the story lies the Moonstone itself: a legendary Indian diamond, steeped in history and controversy, a spoil of war now bestowed upon Rachel Verinder as a birthday gift. On the very night of her eighteenth birthday celebration, the priceless jewel vanishes, plunging the Verinder household and its inhabitants into a vortex of suspicion and intrigue. Collins masterfully weaves a tapestry of unreliable narrators, each offering their unique perspective on the events surrounding the theft. From the devoted, Robinson Crusoe-obsessed steward, Betteredge, whose folksy wisdom and engaging storytelling provide a captivating anchor, to the enigmatic Franklin Blake, Rachel's cousin, a charming but troubled gentleman whose actions raise numerous questions, every character becomes a potential suspect. The appearance of a troupe of mysterious Indian jugglers further complicates matters, their presence adding an exotic and unsettling element to the unfolding drama. Even Rachel herself, seemingly innocent, becomes the object of suspicion as the secrets of her heart begin to surface. Enter Sergeant Cuff, a brilliant and unconventional detective whose methods are as meticulous as they are unorthodox. With an eye for detail and a deep understanding of human nature, Cuff meticulously investigates the crime scene, piecing together the clues and sifting through the layers of deception. He relies heavily on Betteredge, who serves as both confidant and guide through the intricate web of relationships within the Verinder household. More than just a thrilling crime story, "The Moonstone" explores themes of colonialism, class, and the complexities of human relationships. Collins nuanced portrayal of his characters, their motivations, and their flaws, elevates the novel beyond a simple whodunit. He skillfully dissects the societal norms and prejudices of Victorian England, offering a critical commentary on the era's social structure and the impact of British imperialism. This edition, complete with an insightful introduction and notes by David Blair of Rutherford College, University of Kent, provides valuable context and enhances the reading experience. Blair's scholarly analysis delves into the novel's historical background, literary significance, and enduring appeal, shedding light on Collins's masterful storytelling techniques and the novel's lasting impact on the detective genre. Weighing approximately 230 grams and spanning 438 pages, this paperback edition of "The Moonstone" is perfect for both seasoned readers of classic literature and newcomers eager to experience the thrill of a well-crafted mystery. Lose yourself in the captivating narrative, unravel the secrets of the Moonstone, and discover why Wilkie Collins remains a literary giant. The ISBN-13 is 9781853260445 and the ISBN-10 is 1853260444. This is a must-have addition to any bookshelf, and a gift that will be appreciated by lovers of suspenseful literature.