The Moonstone

By: Wilkie Collins

Narrated by: B. J. Harrison

This is heralded as the very first mystery novel. Collins, in his great work, created the guidelines for the genre as we know it today: a fabulous diamond stolen, everyone in the house is suspected, three mysterious Indians sworn to protect the jewel at all costs, the upstairs/downstairs tension from the servants, and a brilliant detective who is eccentrically fond of roses.

Public Domain (P)2009 B.J. Harrison

The Original is always the best

If we would not only read the old classics but adopt more of the chivalry, manners and language of the past, this world would be a better place. When a mans word was worth more then a signed document is now. Loyalty to friends and family was placed above self. Stories like these prove we have lost so much with the slang and decreasing vocabulary of the common man. Also proof that progress does not mean improvment.

Wonderful in every way!

At times it was a bit slow, but the detail which made it seem slow was in line with the character narrating the story. In all, well done!

A nice retreat into 19th century England

A good mystery with a satisfying ending, a precursor to Agatha Christie and Sherlock Holmes.
The performance of the narrator is outstanding, more than 5 stars required. I especially enjoyed Betteridge.
While the story was long and could likely have been condensed, I enjoyed the old English verbiage, social norms, scenery and characters.

story meanders, narrator excels

This story meanders in detailed explanations so I am frequently distracted. Still, as the first mystery, I am glad I am listening.

Narrator provides excellent voice acting, character individuation, and accent consistency.

A little long

Be sure to listen whilst you are able to give your full attention. It is worth the extra effort!

Really Long

And long boring parts. This would have been a clever old fashioned mystery if it were a third of its length. Two thirds of this story are just a long unnecessary slog.

Mystery at its best

A classic mystery read beautifully. All who enjoy a good mystery story should listen to this tale written by a master.

Get the Abridged Version...NOW.

I was excited about this book, knowing of it's history slightly, in passing. Always love a good mystery, especially the Sherlock Holmes-type both in period & production. This story was just sooooo long. There was entirely too much; much more than necessary. Repeated sentences, tangential story lines, and explanations that need not be there. Normally I love the UNabridged version of books, however, I learned my lesson from this & my favourite book of all time (The Count of Monte Cristo)...some books just need to be abridged.

The narrator was good; seemed to sound like many others from similar books written at the time. It certainly isn't his fault there were too many words to read. It was a good performance.

As for the plot...once you get through to the good stuff, it is great! Please believe me though, for your own sake, get the abridged version. 📚💞📖❣️

*~Cecelia~*

Amazing narration.

Fantadtic book and amazing narration. First time listening to Wilkie Collins and BJ Harrison and it was a fantastic combination.

Absolutely incredible! A true classic!

To be honest I had never heard of this book until it was mentioned in one of the 'lighthearted mysteries I have neocons of recently. The heroine is a librarian and a great fan of classic literature. She runs a book club, and The Moonstone" is one of the books they decide to read and discuss. Based on the book club members ' various reactions to this classic work, I decided to give it a try myself. I loved it! It is the story of a priceless ancient Hindu diamond that decorated the forehead of the god Vishnu ; how it was stolen from it's place long ago and found its way to 18th century England in the possession of a very disreputable man. The story is skillfully told in the form of letters, statements, and reports written by the people involved. Totally riveted, t listened to the whole thing in less than a week! I highly recommend it both to mystery lovers and classic literature fans alike.