The Law and The Lady (Mystery Thriller Classic) (eBook)

Wilkie Collins, born William Wilkie Collins on January 8, 1824, in London, was a notable English novelist, playwright, and short story writer who became famous during the Victorian era. Collins was a master of the mystery and suspense genres, and he is best remembered for pioneering sensation novels, a genre that combines the domestic with the thrilling. He is often credited with creating the archetype of the 'detective novel' with works that feature intricate plots, engaging characters, and a keen awareness of the social issues of his time. Collins' legal knowledge, largely self-acquired, is showcased in 'The Law and The Lady' (1875), a mystery thriller classic that explores the themes of Scottish law and the concept of trial by jury through the eyes of a strong female protagonist. This work followed the success of his earlier breakthrough novels, 'The Woman in White' (1860) and 'The Moonstone' (1868), which are considered to be among the first modern English detective novels. Collins' writing is characterized by his social commentary, intricate storytelling, and a deep empathy for the human condition. Despite suffering from gout and opium addiction in his later years, Collins continued to write prolifically until his death on September 23, 1889. His innovative contributions to the literary landscape, particularly in the development of mystery and detective fiction, have earned him a permanent place in the annals of English literature.