The Woman in White is Wilkie Collins's fifth published novel, written in 1859. It is considered to be among the first mystery novels and is widely regarded as one of the first (and finest) in the genre of "sensation novels".The story is sometimes considered an early example of detective fiction with protagonist Walter Hartright employing many of the sleuthing techniques of later private detectives. The use of multiple narrators (including nearly all the principal characters) draws on Collins's legal training, and as he ...
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The Woman in White is Wilkie Collins's fifth published novel, written in 1859. It is considered to be among the first mystery novels and is widely regarded as one of the first (and finest) in the genre of "sensation novels".The story is sometimes considered an early example of detective fiction with protagonist Walter Hartright employing many of the sleuthing techniques of later private detectives. The use of multiple narrators (including nearly all the principal characters) draws on Collins's legal training, and as he points out in his preamble: "the story here presented will be told by more than one pen, as the story of an offence against the laws is told in Court by more than one witness". In 2003, Robert McCrum writing for The Observer listed The Woman in White number 23 in "the top 100 greatest novels of all time", and the novel was listed at number 77 on the BBC's survey The Big Read.
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I enjoy long books. After the first couple of chapters, this book held no interest for me at all. It goes on and on but is meaningless. If this is an example of of great Victorian mystery, then count me out. J/S
Sueh
Nov 19, 2011
One of my favorites
I had read this book before but wanted a copy of my own. Tho written in the mid-1800s, it has a lively contemporary feel. The Moonstone is also written by Collins. They are both great places to live, and since both are long novels, that can be for quite a while.
rolltide4sure
Jul 16, 2009
MYSTERY
Although this book may be called a great mystery story it is also a wonderful love story well worth reading.
lsaj
Jun 25, 2009
Excellent
Even though it can be a bit wordy, I think it only helps to develop the characters and story better. This book covers many genres..... romance, suspense, mystery. What else could you want in a book?
LisaT
Jun 25, 2009
Good book
I had to read it for school. At first it seemed overwhelming but I became enthralled and enjoyed every moment of it. I would recommend the book to anyone who enjoys tongue in cheek humor and subtleness. Wilke Collins is an excellent writer.