The Moonstone

A yellow diamond is stolen on Rachel Verinder's birthday, leading to a complex investigation. The Moonstone is a pioneering detective novel by Wilkie Collins.

A priceless yellow diamond is stolen from an Indian temple and then bequeathed to Rachel Verinder with malicious intent. On her eighteenth birthday, her friend and suitor, Franklin Blake, presents the diamond to her. However, that very night, the diamond is stolen once again, plunging Rachel and her acquaintances into a web of intrigue and suspicion. With everyone in the vicinity becoming a potential suspect, the plot thickens as the eccentric Sergeant Cuff and Franklin attempt to unravel the mystery behind the theft.

The Moonstone is often celebrated as one of the earliest examples of detective fiction, where Wilkie Collins laid the foundation for the genre. The story is not just a simple whodunit; it intricately weaves together a series of events filled with red herrings, a 'locked-room' puzzle, and a reconstruction of the crime that keeps readers guessing. The innovative use of multiple narrators further enhances the complexity of the narrative, making it a standout piece in the Victorian sensation genre.

In the introduction by Sandra Kemp, the detective elements of Collins's writing are explored, highlighting how his approach was quite distinct for his time. Collins, who was a contemporary of Charles Dickens, is also known for other notable works such as The Woman in White. The Moonstone remains a significant precursor to modern mystery novels and continues to captivate readers with its rich storytelling and intricate plot.