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.

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.

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.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Dark / Melancholic / Unnerving

- Wilkie Collins's The Moonstone is often considered the first full-length detective novel in the English language, paving the way for the genre's growth and popularity.
- The Moonstone originally appeared as a serialized story in Charles Dickens's magazine All the Year Round in 1868, captivating readers with its innovative storytelling style.
- The narrative structure of The Moonstone, which includes multiple points of view, was an innovative approach at the time, influencing future mystery and detective fiction writers.

**Franklin Blake**  
The charismatic and handsome young man who narrates parts of the story and becomes central to investigating a major theft. His relationship with Rachel Verinder plays a significant role in the narrative.

**Rachel Verinder**  
A wealthy and independent young woman who becomes involved in a mystery due to a precious heirloom she inherits. Her actions significantly impact the unfolding investigation.

**Gabriel Betteredge**  
An experienced and loyal household servant for the Verinder family, who provides insight into the household dynamics and aids in understanding key aspects of the mystery.

**Rosanna Spearman**  
A sensitive maid in the Verinder household with a troubled past, who becomes implicated in the complex events surrounding the theft due to her actions and affections.

**Ezra Jennings**  
The intelligent and observant assistant to the local doctor, who makes critical contributions to resolving the mystery.

**Godfrey Ablewhite**  
A seemingly upright young man from a good family, whose role in the narrative involves charming many characters and becoming entangled in the central intrigue.

Wilkie Collins

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Before You Read

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The Moonstone Summary

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The Moonstone Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Loss of the Diamond, 1848”, Section 1: “The Events Related by Gabriel Betteredge, House-Steward in the Service of Julia, Lady Verinder”

Prologue-Part 1, Section 1, Chapters 1-10

The Moonstone Prologue-Part 1, Section 1, Chapters 1-10 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Section 1, Chapters 11-23

The Moonstone Part 1, Section 1, Chapters 11-23 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Discovery of the Truth, 1848-49, The Events Related in Several Narratives”, Part 2, Section 1: “Contributed by Miss Clack; Niece of the Late Sir John Verinder”

Part 2, Section 1

The Moonstone Part 2, Section 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Discovery of the Truth, 1848-49, The Events Related in Several Narratives”, Part 2, Section 2: “Contributed by Matthew Bruff, Solicitor of Gray’s Inn Square” - Part 2, Section 3: “Contributed by Franklin Blake”

Part 2, Section 2: “Contributed by Matthew Bruff, Solicitor of Gray’s Inn Square”

The Moonstone Part 2, Section 2: “Contributed by Matthew Bruff, Solicitor of Gray’s Inn Square” Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Discovery of the Truth, 1848-49, The Events Related in Several Narratives”, Part 2, Section 6: “Contributed by Sergeant Cuff”

Part 2, Sections 4-6

The Moonstone Part 2, Sections 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Discovery of the Truth, 1848-49, The Events Related in Several Narratives” - Epilogue: “The Finding of the Diamond”

The Moonstone

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