Wilkie Collins Knihy

Když vykoná Allan Armadale na smrtelné posteli strašlivou zpověď svého života, má sotva malou představu o následcích, které jeho slova přinesou, neboť jím pronesené tajemství zahrnuje i tajemnou Lydii Gwiltovou - svůdnou ženu s ohnivými vlasy, bigamistku, narkomanku a travičku. Její zákeřné intriky ženou vpřed zápletku tohoto strhujícího melodramatu; příběhu o zaměněných identitách, dědičných kletbách, soupeření v lásce, špionáži, penězích a vraždách. Postava Gwiltové děsila současné kritiky, přičemž ji jeden z nich popsal jako "jednu z nejzatvrzelejších ženských padouchů, jejichž plány a touhy kdy zatemňovaly fikci". Zůstává jednou z nejtajemnějších a nejzajímavějších žen literatury 19. století a je temným srdcem tohoto nejzábavnějšího "senzačního románu" viktoriánské éry.

Detektivní příběh mladého učitele kreslení, který odhalí rafinované zločince usilující o velký majetek. Autor, klasik anglického detektivního románu napínavou formou kritizuje kořistnickou morálku, právě tak jako jeho vrstevník Charles Dickens.

Detektivní příběh mladého učitele kreslení, který odhalí rafinované zločince usilující o velký majetek. Autor, klasik anglického detektivního románu napínavou formou kritizuje kořistnickou morálku, právě tak jako jeho vrstevník Charles Dickens.

Detektivní román anglického klasika líčí osudy lidí, kteří přišli do styku s velkým žlutým diamantem, uloupeným z čela indického bůžka, zosobňujícího měsíc. Dramatické momenty jsou protkány známým anglickým suchým humorem, parodujícím společenskou přetvářku a mravy hrabivých kolonizátorů.

Kriminální příběh z prostředí viktoriánské společnosti. Případ tajemné vraždy je líčen tak poutavě, že mu neubralo nic na účinnosti ani téměř devadesát let, kdy román poprvé vyšel, ani konkurence moderních detektivek. Z anglického originálu The Haunted Hotel, vydaného roku 1878 nakladatelstvím Bernard Tauchnitz v Lipsku přeložil Tomáš Korbař. S obálkou a ilustracemi Vladimíra Kafky vydalo vydavatelství a nakladatelství ROH PRÁCE roku 1964 v knižnici Románové novinky, svazek 151. 1. vydání.

Detektivní příběh mladého učitele kreslení, který odhalí rafinované zločince usilující o velký majetek. Autor, klasik anglického detektivního románu napínavou formou kritizuje kořistnickou morálku, právě tak jako jeho vrstevník Charles Dickens.

Kniha představuje anglického autora Williama Colinse (1824-1889), proslulého polodetektivními romány, jako mistra poutavé četby. Příběhy složitých a úkladných zločinů, koncipované s velkou dávkou fantazie, poskytují rušný děj, barvité prostředí a nečekané rozuzlení.

This large print edition features easy-to-read text of Collins's classic work, making it accessible to a wider audience. The focus on readability enhances the experience of engaging with the timeless themes and intricate storytelling that define Collins's writing. Ideal for readers who appreciate classic literature but may struggle with smaller fonts, this edition ensures that the beauty of the prose is enjoyed without strain.

Set against the backdrop of 19th-century societal norms, the novel explores themes of class stigma, divorce, and child custody through the intertwined lives of its characters. Captain Roderick Westerfield's legal troubles lead to family upheaval, impacting his daughter Sydney, who becomes a governess. As she navigates love and societal expectations, her relationship with Herbert Linely complicates matters, especially when his wife seeks divorce. Ultimately, the story resolves with unexpected unions and new beginnings, highlighting the challenges faced by women in a restrictive society.

This extensive 51-volume collection features seminal writings in literature, philosophy, history, and mythology, curated by Charles William Eliot, Harvard's longest-serving president. Known as "Dr. Eliot's Five Foot Shelf," it embodies his vision that a fundamental liberal education can be achieved through a carefully selected anthology. Originally published between 1909 and 1917 as the "Harvard Classics," the set aims to provide readers with a comprehensive foundation of essential texts that fit within a five-foot bookshelf.

The narrative revolves around Iris Henley, who marries the unstable Lord Harry Norland, defying her father's wishes. Their life together is marred by financial struggles and Harry's descent into insurance fraud, leading to a murder investigation. As Iris uncovers a conspiracy, she must confront the reality of her marriage. This unfinished work by Wilkie Collins, completed posthumously by Walter Besant, explores themes of love, desperation, and moral dilemmas, presented in a modern and accessible edition.

This comprehensive collection offers a deep dive into its subject matter, presenting a wealth of information and insights. It features a range of topics, meticulously curated to provide readers with both foundational knowledge and advanced perspectives. The volume is designed to engage a diverse audience, making it a valuable resource for both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts. Each section is thoughtfully organized, ensuring clarity and accessibility while encouraging further exploration of the themes presented.

The book explores the deepening divisions within Western societies, attributing them to contrasting moral perspectives. It delves into the origins of this dichotomous morality, examining the underlying reasons and the beneficiaries of these divisions. By addressing gaps in existing literature, the author seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the moral landscape and its implications for societal conflict.

The book is a classical work that has played a significant role in human history, now republished by Alpha Editions to ensure its preservation for future generations. It has been carefully reformatted and retyped, providing a clear and readable text that enhances the reading experience. This modern edition aims to keep the essence of the original intact while making it accessible to contemporary audiences.

Renowned for creating iconic characters and compelling narratives, Dickens stands as a towering figure in Victorian literature. His journey from a factory worker to a celebrated author showcases his resilience and talent, despite limited formal education. Over two decades, he edited a weekly journal and produced a remarkable body of work, including 15 novels and numerous short stories, which continue to captivate readers today. Dickens's sharp social critique and vivid storytelling solidify his legacy as a literary genius.

Known for pioneering the detective genre, Collins crafted influential works like The Moonstone. His early life in Italy and France enriched his linguistic skills, which complemented his literary career. Initially a tea merchant, he transitioned to writing, publishing his first novel in 1850. His friendship with Charles Dickens significantly shaped his career, leading to collaborations and contributions in Dickens's journals. Collins's legacy lies in his innovative storytelling and the enduring impact of his novels on English literature.

Walter Hartright meets the ethereal figure of a woman in white on a moonlit road who is familiar with Limmeridge House in Cumberland, where he is to take up employment as a drawing teacher. The mystery deepens when he learns that she, by all accounts, has escaped from an asylum.

Collection of English language classics for advanced readers.

Set against the backdrop of the French Revolution, the story revolves around a group of prisoners granted a final night with their loved ones before facing execution. While the majority embrace the moment with revelry and morbid curiosity, Duprat, one of the prisoners, chooses silence, hinting at deeper complexities. This intriguing premise unfolds in "Nine O' Clock," a mystery novel by Wilkie Collins that explores themes of mortality, human connection, and the psychological impact of impending death.

Wilkie Collins was born in London in 1824, the elder son of a successful painter, William Collins. He left school at 17, and after an unhappy spell as a clerk in a tea broker's office, during which he wrote his first, unpublished novel, he entered Lincoln's Inn as a law student in 1846. He considered a career as a painter, but after the publication, in 1848, of his life of his father, and a novel, Antonina, in 1850, his future as a writer was assured. His meeting with Dickens in 1851 was perhaps the turning-point of his career. The two became collaborators and lifelong friends. Collins contributed to Dickens's magazines Household Words and All the Year Round, and his two best-known novels, The Woman in White and The Moonstone, were first published in All the Year Round. Collins's private life was as complex and turbulent as his novels. He never married, but lived with a widow, Mrs. Caroline Graves, from 1858 until his death. He also had three children by a younger woman, Martha Rudd, whom he kept in a separate establishment. Collins suffered from 'rheumatic gout', a form of arthritis which made him an invalid in his later years, and he became addicted to the laudanum he took to ease the pain of the illness. He died in 1889.

The 'Fallen Leaves' of the title are 'The people who have drawn blanks in the lottery of life...the friendless and the lonely, the wounded and the lost'. The novel follows the fortunes of four women, all in one way or another 'fallen leaves', who are linked by their relationships with the hero, Amelius Goldenheart, and also by secrets from the past. William Wilkie Collins (1824-1889) was an English novelist and playwright, best known for The Woman in White and The Moonstone.

Part of Penguin's beautiful hardback Clothbound Classics series, designed by the award-winning Coralie Bickford-Smith, these delectable and collectible editions are bound in high-quality colourful, tactile cloth with foil stamped into the design. The Woman in White famously opens with Walter Hartright's eerie encounter on a moonlit London road. Engaged as a drawing master to the beautiful Laura Fairlie, Walter is drawn into the sinister intrigues of Sir Percival Glyde and his 'charming' friend Count Fosco, who has a taste for white mice, vanilla bonbons and poison. Pursuing questions of identity and insanity along the paths and corridors of English country houses and the madhouse, The Woman in White is the first and most influential of the Victorian genre that combined Gothic horror with psychological realism.

Known for pioneering the detective novel genre, the author gained recognition through works like The Moonstone. His early life in Italy and France enriched his linguistic skills, which complemented his literary career. Collins initially worked as a tea merchant before publishing his debut novel, Antonina, in 1850. His friendship with Charles Dickens greatly influenced his career, leading to collaborations and publications in Dickens's journals. Collins's contributions to literature include both novels and plays, showcasing his versatility as a writer.

Wilkie Collins is a master of mystery, and The Woman in White is his first excursion into the genre. When the hero, Walter Hartright, on a moonlit night in north London, encounters a solitary, terrified and beautiful woman dressed in white, he feels impelled to solve the mystery of her distress.

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A strange figure stood in front of him, dressed from head to foot in white clothing. The moonlight showed her pale, youthful face.

Written in the same decade as "The Moonstone" and "The Woman in White", Collins' novel deals with such issues of the Victorian era as the unsatisfactory marriage laws, the emergence of the autonomous, sexually active woman and the growing scientific intrusion into the privacy of the psyche.

Penguin Readers is an ELT graded reader series for learners of English as a foreign language. With carefully adapted text, new illustrations and language learning exercises , the print edition also includes instructions to access supporting material online.Titles include popular classics, exciting contemporary fiction, and thought-provoking non-fiction, introducing language learners to bestselling authors and compelling content .The eight levels of Penguin Readers follow the Common European Framework of Reference for language learning ( CEFR ). Exercises at the back of each Reader help language learners to practise grammar, vocabulary, and key exam skills. Before, during and after-reading questions test readers' story comprehension and develop vocabulary.Visit the Penguin Readers websiteExclusively with the print edition, readers can unlock online resources including a digital book, audio edition, lesson plans and answer keys.One night when Walter Hartwright is walking home, he meets and helps the mysterious 'woman in white'. Soon after this meeting, Walter starts a job as a drawing teacher in the north of England and falls in love with his student, Laura Fairlie. But Laura is engaged to Sir Percival Glyde. Then Laura receives a letter warning her not to marry Glyde. Walter is sure that the letter comes from the woman in white...

This riveting tale of mistaken identities, surprise revelations, locked rooms, and an unorthodox villain has enthralled readers since first published more than 140 years ago.

At a party celebrating her eighteenth birthday, Rachel Verinder wears the stunning yellow diamond she unexpectedly inherited from her uncle, Colonel John Herncastle. She is not aware that the precious gem, known as the Moonstone, was plundered from a sacred Hindu shrine in southern India where her uncle had served with the British army fifty years earlier. But someone knows the secret of the Moonstone and will go to desperate measures to retrieve it. When it goes missing later that night, suspicions are raised and accusations fly. Could it be a trio of mysterious Indian jugglers seen near the house? Or a love-struck housemaid suddely behaving strangely? And there is Rachel herself, who becomes furious when her paramour, Franklin Blake, directs attempts to find it. As divergent accounts reveal more details, the diamond's recovery is complicated by unexpected twists and turns. Sifting through a compelling list of suspects, the indomitable Sergeant Cuff must find the truth about the Moonstone and its mysterious disappearance.

Lewis Romayne is a recluse, forced from his life of academic research by the dying call of an aunt in Paris. Subsequently involved in a duel, he returns a broken man, until he meets Stella Eyrecourt and marriage becomes a possibility. But a face from the past begins a battle for Romayne's soul.

Rachel opened the box and lifted out the diamond. She held it up in a ray of sunlight that poured through the window, and cried out in amazement.

Magdalen Vanstone and her sister Norah confront the harsh realities of social stigma in Victorian England after discovering their parents were not married when they were born, leaving them disinherited and orphaned. Forced from their beloved Combe-Raven estate, they must navigate a challenging future. While Norah chooses a life of duty as a governess, Magdalen, the spirited younger sister, seeks to reclaim her inheritance through bold and reckless means. With her striking beauty and dramatic flair, she embarks on a quest for revenge, aided by the cunning Captain Wragge. This journey culminates in a dramatic choice: will she marry the man she despises to secure her future? Written in the early 1860s, this work faced criticism for its perceived immorality but is now celebrated for its profound social commentary, showcasing the author's literary prowess. The series has provided over a century of accessible literature, reflecting Oxford's dedication to scholarship with accurate texts, expert introductions, and helpful notes for deeper understanding.

First serialized in the 1850s and 1860s, these short stories range from humour to social criticism, from satirical bite to high drama. Many of the stories were written in collaboration by the two authors.

Known for pioneering the detective genre, the author gained acclaim with notable works like The Moonstone. Born into an artistic family, he spent his early years in Italy and France, which influenced his literary style. Initially a tea merchant, his career shifted after publishing his debut novel, Antonina, leading to a significant friendship with Charles Dickens. This relationship not only shaped his writing but also resulted in collaborations across various literary forms, with several of his works featured in Dickens's journals.

[Penguin Readers Level 6]Including:The MoonstoneOliver TwistA Tale of Two CitiesThe History of Tom Jones, a Foundling"Penguin Readers" is a series of simplified novels, film novelizations and original titles that introduce students at all levels to the pleasures of reading in English. Originally designed for teaching English as a foreign language, the series' combination of high interest level and low reading age makes it suitable for both English-speaking teenagers with limited reading skills and students of English as a second language. Many titles in the series also provide access to the pre-20th century literature strands of the National Curriculum English Orders. "Penguin Readers" are graded at seven levels of difficulty, from "Easystarts" with a 200-word vocabulary, to Level 6 (Advanced) with a 3000-word vocabulary. In addition, titles fall into one of three sub-categories: "Contemporary", "Classics" or "Originals". At the end of each book there is a section of enjoyable exercises focusing on vocabulary building, comprehension, discussion and writing. Some titles in the series are available with an accompanying audio cassette, or in a book and cassette pack. Additionally, selected titles have free accompanying "Penguin Readers Factsheets" which provide stimulating exercise material for students, as well as suggestions for teachers on how to exploit the Readers in class.

Collins' most financially successful novel, The Evil Genius, opens with a jury determining the fate of a sea captain whose ship allegedly facilitated a diamond theft. The story develops into a powerful novel of Victorian private life, including deception, adultery and divorce.

'…melodrama is perennial and […] the craving for it is perennial and must be satisfied.'T. S. Eliot ('Wilkie Collins and Dickens')Collins's ability to construct a gripping situation and to create an atmosphere of mystery and menace is fully evident in the three novellas reprinted here. All proceed through a series of dramatic scenes to a climax that in one case at least is literally explosive. The fast-paced 'Miss or Mrs?' (1871) opens on a yacht, features a remarkably unconventional heroine, and entails murder attempts, blackmail, clandestine marriage and commercial fraud. Dramatic and psychologically absorbing, the action of 'The Haunted Hotel' (1878) takes place in an ancient Venetian palazzo converted into a modern hotel that houses a grisly secret. Lastly, set in a beautiful water-mill, 'The Guilty River' (1886) depicts a group of alienated characters, whose relationships threaten to erupt in violence and murder. Varied in setting and tone, these stories demonstrate Collins's plot-making skill at its most succinct and intricate.Includes: Introduction, Textual Note, Bibliography, Chronology, Explanatory Notes, Appendix: Collins's prefaces

In this story, the chief character's internal melodrama elevates the narrative beyond mere melodrama into the realm of true dreams, as noted by T.S. Eliot. Like Poe and Conan Doyle, Wilkie Collins adeptly navigated the supernatural while making significant contributions to detective literature. His first published work, a supernatural allegory titled The Last Stage Coach Man, marked the beginning of his lifelong fascination with the occult. His later work, The Haunted Hotel, showcases a streamlined narrative that distills the themes and methods from his earlier, more extensive novels. The relentless pace and focus on plot detail found in The Moonstone and The Woman in White are present here, alongside a preoccupation with destiny and the struggle against it. Set against the backdrop of Collins' beloved Venice, the story features its grim waterways and palatial beauty, haunted by mysterious women and dark conspiracies. The Countess Narona, a cosmopolitan enchantress, embodies the fatal woman trope, driven by her obsession with fatality, compelling coincidences to unfold. Collins injects humor and irony to relieve tension, with theatrical motifs reflecting his involvement in the stage during that period. The narrative draws inspiration from a French crime case, with its vivid scenes and conflicts stemming from Collins' richly imaginative and haunted mind.

Heart and Science, one of Wilkie Collins' later novels, is concerned with the debate over what he termed 'the hideous secrets of vivisection.' The tale of a family split by various opinions and sentiments, as well as the novel's clear parallels to the animal welfare/animal rights debates of today will strike chords of understanding with modern readers, who always relate well to the accessible conversational style of Collins' prose. Appendices of contextual material include contemporary reviews, Carroll, Cobbe and others on the vivisection debate of the 1870s, Collins's letters, and R. Browning's anti-vivisectionist poems.

Set in Cornwall, a novel which explores the relationship between a fallen woman, her illegitimate daughter and the recovery of a hidden secret. From the author of THE WOMAN IN WHITE.

Renowned for creating iconic characters, the author stands as a pivotal figure in Victorian literature. His rise from a factory worker due to family financial struggles to an acclaimed novelist showcases his resilience and talent. Over two decades, he edited a journal and produced a prolific body of work, including 15 novels and numerous short stories, which continue to resonate with readers today. Dickens's keen social critique and storytelling prowess have solidified his legacy as a literary genius, celebrated for both his popularity and enduring impact on literature.

Grace and Mercy are very different women, but are both caught up in the war between Germany and France. When Grace is hit by a loose shell, Mercy seizes the chance to escape her past as a fallen woman and convict by assuming Grace's identity and travelling to England.

Wilkie Collins's intriguing story about a blind girl, Lucilla Finch, and the identical twins who both fall in love with her, has the exciting complications of his better-known novels but it also overturns conventional expectations. Using a background of myth and fairy-tale to expand the boundaries of nineteenth-century realist fiction, Collins gives one of the best accounts in fiction of blindness and its implications.

Valeria Woodville's first act as a married woman is to sign her name in the marriage register incorrectly, and this slip is followed by the gradual disclosure of a series of secrets about her husband's earlier life, each of which leads on to another set of questions and enigmas. Her discoveries prompt her to defy her husband's authority, to take the law into into a labyrinthine maze of false clues and deceptive identities, in which the exploration of the tangled workings of the mind becomes linked to an investigation into the masquerades of femininity. Probably the first full-length novel with a woman detective as its heroine, The Law and the Lady is a fascinating example of Collins's later fiction. First published in 1875, it employs many of the techniques used in The Moonstone, developing them in bizarre and unexpected ways, and in its Gothic and fantastic elements The Law and the Lady adds a significant dimension to the history of detective fiction. ABOUT THE SERIES: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the widest range of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, helpful notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.

Set against the backdrop of ancient Rome, this novel intricately weaves historical events with fictional characters, focusing on the interactions between the Roman ruler Honorius and the Gothic lord Alaric. Collins aims to capture the essence of the era, portraying the dramatic moments leading up to the Gothic invasion. The narrative is grounded in historical accuracy, reflecting the societal and cultural tensions of the time, while also exploring themes of power and conflict.

Have you ever heard of the fascination of terror?' This is a unique collection of strang stories from the cunning pen of Wilkie Collins, author of The Woman in White and The Moonstone. The Star attraction is the novella The Haunted Hotel, a clever combination of detective and ghost story set in Venice, a city of grim waterways, dark shadows and death. The action takes place in an ancient palazzo coverted into a modern hote that houses a grisly secret. The supernatural horror, relentless pace, tight narrative, and a doomed countess characterise and distinguish this powerful tale. The other stories present equally disturbing scenarios, which include ghosts, corpses that move, family curses and perhaps the most unusual of all, the Devil's spectacles which bring a clarity of vision that can lead to madness.

Set against the backdrop of a failed Arctic expedition, the story explores themes of love, jealousy, and sacrifice. Richard and Frank, both in love with Clara, find their friendship tested as Richard's obsession with Clara drives him to madness. Clara, believing she has the power of foresight, grapples with guilt over the turmoil their love triangle creates. As the two men face life-threatening challenges during their voyage, their struggle for survival intertwines with their emotional conflicts, leading to a dramatic conclusion.

When a condemned woman asks the local Minister to take her daughter home, the childless man is touched and finds himself unable to refuse. Yet the prisoner is unrepentant of the murder of her husband. Will her vices be passed on to this seemingly sweet child?

Wilkie Collins' third novel tells the story of a deaf and dumb girl and the rebellious man she loves, gradually unravelling the secret of her origins through the ingenuity of a persistent stranger. The text includes explanatory notes.

Twelve supernatural tales are accompanied by a discussion of Collins' life and literary achievements

Set against the backdrop of the infamous Boorn Brothers murder case, this 1874 novella delves into themes of guilt and the supernatural. Wilkie Collins weaves a gripping narrative that explores the eerie intersection of life and death, with a focus on the haunting presence of a ghost. The story gained renewed attention with a 2005 reprint featuring an analysis of the case by Rob Warden, and it was adapted for a 1953 radio broadcast, showcasing its enduring intrigue and relevance in the realm of suspense.

The biography highlights William Wilkie Collins as a pioneering English novelist and playwright, particularly noted for creating the first modern detective novel, The Moonstone. His early life in Italy and France enriched his linguistic skills, while his initial career as a tea merchant shifted after publishing his first novel, Antonina. Collins formed a significant friendship with Charles Dickens, who influenced his writing and published some of his works in his journals, leading to collaborative efforts in drama and fiction.

Book by Collins, Wilkie

Wilkie Collins’s later novels often address social issues alongside storytelling, and many critics argue that his best works remain as engaging and thought-provoking today as when they were first published. This is especially true for his 1883 novel, which Collins himself regarded as comparable to his masterpiece. The narrative centers on Carmina Graywell, an orphan under the control of her aunt, Mrs. Gallilee, while her fiancé seeks treatment in Canada. Mrs. Gallilee schemes to manipulate and ultimately harm the strong-willed Carmina over her inheritance. Complicating matters is Dr. Benjulia, a dark genius whose obsession with brain diseases leads him to exacerbate Carmina’s life-threatening condition for scientific observation. The story builds to two climactic scenes filled with tension. Collins passionately addresses the debate over vivisection, inspired by a sensational trial in the 1880s involving a doctor acquitted of animal cruelty charges for live experimentation. The edition includes excerpts from contemporary accounts of this trial, documents related to the vivisection controversy, and various reviews. With its themes of strong-willed women and vivisection, the novel resonates with modern readers, reflecting current animal welfare and rights debates.

The author of The Moonstone and The Woman in White applies his acclaimed narrative powers to this thrilling tale of mysterious women and blood-drenched conspiracies. Set amid the picturesque palaces and waterways of 19th-century Venice, Collins's suspenseful novelette recounts an obsessed countess's attempts to thwart what she perceives as her fatal destiny.

This masterfully curated collection brings together some of the finest poetry ever written by Andrew Marvell, John Dryden, and William Collins. Featuring timeless odes, such as Marvell's 'To his Coy Mistress' and Dryden's 'Annus Mirabilis, ' as well as lesser-known gems, this volume is sure to delight poetry lovers of all ages.

Preserving a significant classical work, this volume has been meticulously reformatted and retyped for clarity and readability. Alpha Editions aims to ensure its importance endures for future generations by presenting it in a modern format, free from the imperfections of scanned copies. The effort highlights the value of the text throughout human history, making it accessible to contemporary readers.

Armadale is a mystery novel. The novel has a convoluted plot about two distant cousins both named Allan Armadale. The father of one had murdered the father of the other (the two fathers are also named Allan Armadale). The story starts with a deathbed confession by the murderer in the form of a letter to be given to his baby son when he grows up. Wilkie Collins (1824 - 1889) was an English novelist, playwright, and author of short stories. His best-known works are The Woman in White, No Name, Armadale, and The Moonstone.

This anthology curated by Wilkie Collins showcases a rich variety of 19th-century English literature, featuring diverse narratives that highlight different storytelling styles and themes. Readers will encounter suspenseful tales and poignant reflections on human nature, capturing the essence of the Victorian literary landscape. Collins, known for his own contributions to the thriller genre, expertly blends works from both renowned and lesser-known authors, offering a unique glimpse into the era's literary talent and creativity.

The Bishop envisions a future where humanity can communicate with extraterrestrial civilizations in the Milky Way. His mission focuses on preparing for this pivotal moment, driven by his profound question, "Are we alone?" Beyond this inquiry, he seeks to explore the implications and knowledge that such contact could bring, emphasizing the importance of readiness for this transformative experience.

The plot revolves around a cursed diamond, stolen from India during the Mutiny, and its dark legacy. Bequeathed to Rachel Verrinder on her 18th birthday by her estranged uncle, the Moonstone brings misfortune and intrigue. The diamond's origins tie it to a Hindu cult, leading to a quest by Brahmins to reclaim it for their temple. Themes of revenge, family estrangement, and the clash of cultures unfold as the narrative explores the diamond's impact on those who encounter it.

Renowned as a pioneer of the detective genre, the author crafted a substantial body of work, including 30 novels and numerous short stories and plays. A contemporary of Charles Dickens, he enjoyed significant acclaim during his lifetime, though his popularity waned after his death. Recently, interest in his writings has surged, leading to adaptations across various media. This collection showcases his four most celebrated novels, inviting readers to rediscover the depth and intrigue of his storytelling.

This reprint preserves the essence of a classic work first published in 1856, offering readers a chance to explore its historical context and original narrative. The book delves into themes relevant to its time, showcasing the author's unique perspective and style. Readers can expect a rich exploration of the period's societal norms and values, making it a valuable addition for those interested in literary history and the evolution of storytelling.

The story revolves around Walter Hartright, a struggling art teacher who falls in love with the beautiful heiress Laura Fairlie, who is engaged to the enigmatic Sir Percival Glyde. The plot thickens with the presence of a mysterious woman in white, who holds a dark secret about Glyde. As Walter seeks to uncover the truth and protect Laura from Glyde and his sinister associate, Count Fosco, suspense and intrigue unfold, highlighting themes of love, betrayal, and the quest for justice.

Featuring a collection of eight captivating mystery novels, this box set promises thrilling plots and intriguing characters that will keep readers guessing until the last page. Each book offers a unique twist on the genre, showcasing different settings and styles, from classic whodunits to modern psychological thrillers. Perfect for fans of suspense and detective stories, this set is an ideal way to dive into a world of intrigue and investigation.

Set in 19th-century England, this pioneering detective novel revolves around Rachel Verinder, who inherits a sacred Indian diamond on her eighteenth birthday. The story unfolds through multiple perspectives as the diamond is stolen during her birthday celebration, leading to chaos and intrigue. The narrative weaves together elements of mystery and suspense, showcasing Collins' innovative approach to the detective genre. The novel not only explores themes of theft and identity but also reflects on colonial tensions and the significance of the diamond's origins.

After marrying Eustace, Valeria uncovers a hidden secret that threatens their newfound happiness. Determined to protect their relationship, she embarks on a quest for truth, navigating the complexities of trust and love. The story explores themes of loyalty, the impact of secrets, and the lengths one will go to preserve a bond.

The book features stunning illustrations that enhance the reading experience, with beautifully designed chapter headings that complement the cover art. This visual element adds a unique charm, drawing readers into the narrative while providing a cohesive aesthetic throughout. The combination of engaging visuals and the storyline promises an immersive journey for readers.

Set in Pisa, the story revolves around Father Rocco, a jealous priest who schemes to ruin Count Fabio D'Ascoli and his relationship with the young lover, Nanina, in order to seize the D'Ascoli fortune. His manipulations lead to tragedy when his niece Maddalena dies in childbirth, prompting the appearance of a mysterious figure in a yellow mask that torments the grieving widower. Beyond its gripping narrative, the novel critiques marriage and the morality of the Catholic Church, blending Gothic horror with psychological intrigue, appealing to both Victorian fiction enthusiasts and new readers.

William Wilkie Collins, an influential English novelist and playwright, is renowned for pioneering the detective genre with his work, particularly in The Moonstone. Born to a family of artists, he spent formative years in Italy and France, which fostered his language skills. Initially a tea merchant, his literary career began with Antonina, leading to a significant friendship with Charles Dickens, who mentored him. Collins contributed to Dickens's journals and collaborated on various works, shaping the literary landscape of his time.

Set against a backdrop of interstellar war, the narrative follows humanity's desperate quest for survival after being defeated by an alien confederation. As Earth's Space Command flees their ravaged world, they discover a technological breakthrough that allows them to escape into a new universe. This new reality offers a glimmer of hope, but it also presents fresh challenges and dangers, indicating that their fight for survival is far from over. The story explores themes of resilience and the relentless struggle for existence amid chaos.

The book is a reproduction of a historical work, presented in large print to enhance accessibility for readers with impaired vision. Megali, the publishing house behind this edition, is dedicated to preserving and making historical texts available to a wider audience through thoughtful formatting.

Focusing on accessibility, this publication by Megali emphasizes the importance of making historical works available in large print format. It aims to enhance the reading experience for individuals with impaired vision, ensuring that classic texts remain inclusive and accessible to a broader audience.

The book is a reproduction of a historical work, published by Megali, which focuses on making literature accessible for individuals with impaired vision through large print formatting. This initiative highlights the importance of inclusivity in reading and preserves the original text for contemporary audiences.

Set against a gothic backdrop, the story unfolds with themes of mistaken identities and forbidden love, centering on a mysterious woman whose secrets drive the narrative. This early detective fiction captivates with its thrilling twists and dark atmosphere, inviting readers into a world of intrigue and suspense.