jshepard 's review for:

The Moonstone by Wilkie Collins

4.0

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Continuing my tour of 19th century british literature, I read the Moonstone. Very enjoyable read. I believe it is, by some measures, the first dectective novel ever written. In some ways, the style seems a bit contrived - but that is because it has been imitated so often. For example, the book proceeds through successive interviews with each of the main characters. It works very well in presenting the story from different perspectives. Very clean prose and fun to read. The mystery itself is well crafted, although as a modern reader, the end is not a great surprise. Recommended