The Moonstone

by Wilkie Collins
The Moonstone cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Mystery
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  • ID: 8897
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2025-12-31
  • ISBN: 9781460401347
  • Publisher: Broadview Press
  • Published: 1999-03-09
  • Formats: 9
  • Reviews: 3

The Moonstone, published in 1868, is a seminal work in the mystery genre, inspired by a notorious murder case. The story begins with the theft of a sacred diamond from an Indian temple, which is later gifted to Rachel Verinder on her 18th birthday. The diamond is stolen again the very next morning, setting off a chain of events that involves a cast of intriguing characters and a web of deceit. /n/n The narrative unfolds through multiple eyewitness accounts, providing a unique and engaging perspective. Sergeant Cuff, a sharp-witted detective, is tasked with solving the crime. The novel is celebrated for its intricate plot, well-drawn characters, and elegant pacing, making it one of Collins's most beloved works. The Moonstone was also adapted into a play by Collins, which is included as an appendix in this edition.

Reviews
I Would Rather Be Reading Blog · N/A · 2022-08-17
colorful 3.75

The novel's epistolary style features multiple distinct and colorful voices, with the first narrator being a particular favorite. The unique narrative structure adds depth and interest to the story.

The reviewer at I Would Rather Be Reading Blog praises The Moonstone for its epistolary style, which allows for a variety of distinct and colorful voices. The first narrator is highlighted as a particular favorite, adding depth and interest to the narrative. The reviewer appreciates the unique structure of the novel, which enhances the mystery and intrigue. The review suggests that the novel's multiple perspectives make it a rich and engaging read, offering different viewpoints that add layers to the story.

Quick quotes

    This epistolary work is composed of multiple voices, each one very distinct and quite colorful.

    My favorite was easily the first narrator.

    The unique narrative structure adds depth and interest to the story.

The Guardian · John Mullan · 2014-07-22
brilliant 4.00

The Moonstone is a witty and engaging novel, with humor that is both self-aware and endearing. The character of Betteridge, in particular, is a standout.

The Guardian's review highlights the humor and charm of The Moonstone, noting that the novel's wit is both self-conscious and delightful. John Mullan, the reviewer, praises the character of Betteridge, who loves Robinson Crusoe, as a joy to read. The review suggests that the novel is a perfect beach read, combining mystery and humor in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Mullan appreciates the novel's ability to balance sensational elements with a grounded realism, making it a compelling read.

Quick quotes

    The Moonstone is funny; sometimes self-consciously so, but it is a foible to indulge.

    The Robinson Crusoe-loving Betteridge is a joy.

    The Moonstone combines the sensational and the realistic in a brilliant marriage.

NPR · N/A · 2013-08-04
captivating 4.25

The Moonstone is a captivating detective novel with a mysterious and cursed jewel at its center. The story is engaging and full of surprises, making it a hidden gem in the genre.

NPR's review of The Moonstone highlights it as a hidden gem of a detective novel, praising its mysterious and cursed jewel as a central element. The reviewer finds the story engaging and full of surprises, noting that it is a captivating read. The novel's blend of romance, theft, and murder is appreciated, making it a compelling and intriguing mystery. The review suggests that The Moonstone is a must-read for fans of the genre, offering a unique and satisfying experience.

Quick quotes

    The Moonstone was all I could have hoped for.

    A mysterious, cursed jewel, wrested from India, only to be stolen later from a great British estate.

    The Moonstone is a hidden gem of a detective novel.

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