This book is an amazing beginning to the English mystery novel as we know it today. Apparently, Mr. Collins set the stage for all other mysteries of its kind, coining the terms, “red herring” and an “inside job.” I am soaking up the complexity of the case of the stolen jewel, althewhile standing (or sitting, actually) mesmerized while Collins paints the picture of middle 19th century life so vividly and unabashedly. Always being a student of human character, I have best enjoyed reading about each person in the story, and noticing how their personalities are so similar to ours today. I wonder how people from so long ago could have been so similar to me, down to tiniest thoughts and behaviors. I love something about that. It demands respect toward the author and Author.
