literarybites 's review for:

The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins

5.0

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It isn’t surprising to hear that The Woman in White has been dubbed the pioneer of thriller and suspense fiction. The pages fly by quickly through your fingers as the storyline progresses rapidly through the multiple POVs we have the pleasure of experiencing. While the “resolution” of Walter Hartright presents itself as more of a glaringly obvious manifestation of Collins’ own voice as a writer, the “patience” of Mariam Halcombe and the cunningness of Count Fosco proved themselves genuine, believable, and an immense contribution to the development of two intricate characters. It was unfortunate to see Miss Halcombe’s role reduce to that of a mere messenger and caretaker of the irritatingly helpless Laura Fairlie, but it was most enjoyable to read the story through Miss Halcombe’s journal and to catch a glimpse of the resolute sense of confidence and bravery she possesses. The plot twists and deceptions were cleverly timed, and took even the tainted modern day reader by surprise!