The Moonstone is considered one of the earliest and finest examples of detective fiction. Collins' use of multiple narrators and the intricate plot structure set the groundwork for many future mystery novels. The novel features a highly intricate plot involving a stolen diamond, a series of suspects, and unexpected twists and turns. "The Moonstone" explores themes such as greed, betrayal, and the consequences of colonialism. These themes resonate with readers and provide substance beyond the surface mystery. The complexity of the story keeps readers engaged and guessing until the end. It passes through various hands, leaving a trail of mystery, betrayal, and tragedy. The story unfolds through multiple narratives, revealing secrets and motives as it progresses. Detective Cuff's investigation, Rachel Verinder's distress and the sinister schemes of the criminal trio add layers of intrigue. Ultimately, the moonstone's power to corrupt and destroy is unveiled, leaving a profound impact on all involved. Collins masterfully weaves suspense and psychological depth, creating a timeless tale of greed, deception, and the consequences of obsession. It keeps the reader guessing about the culprit and the fate of the gem. Set in the Victorian era, the novel provides a fascinating glimpse into the social customs, class distinctions, and technological advancements of the time. This historical backdrop adds richness to the narrative. It explores themes of colonialism, gender roles, and the corrupting influence of wealth. It remains a timeless classic of detective fiction, beloved for its rich characters, intricate plot, and enduring relevance. The novel provides a fascinating glimpse into the social customs, class distinctions, and technological advancements of the time. Overall, "The Moonstone" continues to captivate readers with its gripping plot, memorable characters, and exploration of timeless themes. Its influence on the detective fiction genre and its enduring popularity makes it a classic of English literature.

The mind-bending miniature historical epic is Sjón's specialty, and Moonstone: The Boy Who Never Was is no exception. But it is also Sjón's most realistic, accessible, and heartfelt work yet. It is the story of a young man on the fringes of a society that is itself at the fringes of the world--at what seems like history's most tumultuous, perhaps ultimate moment. Máni Steinn is queer in a society in which the idea of homosexuality is beyond the furthest extreme. His city, Reykjavik in 1918, is homogeneous and isolated and seems entirely defenseless against the Spanish flu, which has already torn through Europe, Asia, and North America and is now lapping up on Iceland's shores. And if the flu doesn't do it, there's always the threat that war will spread all the way north. And yet the outside world has also brought Icelanders cinema! And there's nothing like a dark, silent room with a film from Europe flickering on the screen to help you escape from the overwhelming threats--and adventures--of the night, to transport you, to make you feel like everything is going to be all right. For Máni Steinn, the question is whether, at Reykjavik's darkest hour, he should retreat all the way into this imaginary world, or if he should engage with the society that has so soundly rejected him.

The highly anticipated follow-up to the critically acclaimed novel The Widows of Malabar Hill. India, 1922: It is rainy season in the lush, remote Sahyadri mountains, where the princely state of Satapur is tucked away. A curse seems to have fallen upon Satapur’s royal family, whose maharaja died of a sudden illness shortly before his teenage son was struck down in a tragic hunting accident. The state is now ruled by an agent of the British Raj on behalf of Satapur’s two maharanis, the dowager queen and her daughter-in-law. The royal ladies are in a dispute over the education of the young crown prince, and a lawyer’s counsel is required. However, the maharanis live in purdah and do not speak to men. Just one person can help them: Perveen Mistry, Bombay’s only female lawyer. Perveen is determined to bring peace to the royal house and make a sound recommendation for the young prince’s future, but she arrives to find that the Satapur palace is full of cold-blooded power plays and ancient vendettas. Too late, she realizes she has walked into a trap. But whose? And how can she protect the royal children from the palace’s deadly curse?

History, mystery, and science collide in a new series for middle-grade readers, perfect for fans of The Mysterious Benedict Society and Lemony Snicket! Jordan Stratford imagines an alternate 1826, where Ada Lovelace (the world’s first computer programmer) and Mary Shelley (author of Frankenstein) meet as girls and form a secret detective agency! Lady Ada Byron, age eleven, is a genius. Isolated, awkward and a bit rude—but a genius. Mary Godwin, age fourteen, is a romantic. Adventurous, astute, and kind, Mary is to become Ada’s first true friend. And together, the girls conspire to form the Wollstonecraft Detective Agency—a secret constabulary for the apprehension of clever criminals. Their first case involves a stolen heirloom, a false confession, and an array of fishy suspects. But it’s no match for the deductive powers and bold hearts of Ada and Mary. Mystery fans will love this tween girl riff on Sherlock Holmes and John Watson. History buffs will be delighted to see all the real figures who play a role in this story and appreciate the extensive backmatter that helps separate truth from fiction. Parents and educators hoping to promote the STEM fields for girls will be thrilled to have a series where two girls use math, science, and creative analytical thinking to solve crimes. But most especially--emerging readers will love this series filled with humor, action, intrigue and wonderful artwork from Kelly Murphy.

Rosa is confident about passing her first ballet exam, but right in the middle of her test she is whisked away to Enchantia. The King's magic moonstone has broken and all of the ballets are muddled up! Will Rosa be able to put things right?

In this thrilling adventure, two friends are trapped in a detective novel and must catch a crook. Cleo and Evan have a secret. A collection of books so dangerous they are locked up tight. A friend has vanished inside the pages of one of them. It’s up to them to find the key that will set her free. A PRICELESS DIAMOND . . . STOLEN! When Cleo and Evan go undercover to help a rookie detective interview a mansion full of suspects, nothing is as it seems. They must catch the crook—and find the right key—or they could be trapped inside this mystery forever . . . Praise for Key Hunters “Luper’s delectable humor is appropriate for the intended age group, and the plot will keep readers’ attention to the end . . . [t]his is a satisfying read for beginning independent readers.” —School Library Journal

The Moonstone concerns the huge yellow diamond of the title that was once stolen from an Indian shrine. Rachel Verrinder receives the stone as a gift and does not realise that it has been passed to her in a sinister form of revenge by John Herncastle who, it transpires, acquired the moonstone by means of murder and theft. The jewel also brings bad luck. The stone disappears on the very night it is given to Rachel, though, and the tale concerns the unveiling of the culprit after the intervention of Sergeant Cuff, a famous London detective. A maid who is under suspicion commits suicide and Rachel herself seems reticent when it comes to aiding the investigation. Mysterious Indians appear frequently and there is an air of confusion and the unknown until the mystery is eventually solved.