victorian historical mystery novels

There are quite a few Victorian historical mystery novels worth reading. 'The Big Bow Mystery' by Israel Zangwill is an early locked - room mystery set in Victorian London. It's interesting as it was one of the first of its kind. Then there's 'Lady Audley's Secret' by Mary Elizabeth Braddon. This novel delves into the secrets and scandals of the Victorian upper class. Reading these novels can be like taking a journey back in time to the Victorian era, with all its pomp, propriety, and hidden undercurrents of mystery.

Wilkie Collins is a very famous author. He wrote 'The Moonstone' and 'The Woman in White', which are both excellent Victorian historical mystery novels. Arthur Conan Doyle is also well - known for his Sherlock Holmes stories set in Victorian London.

Sherlock Holmes series by Arthur Conan Doyle are also among the best. These stories, like 'A Study in Scarlet' and 'The Hound of the Baskervilles', feature the brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal friend Dr. Watson, solving all kinds of baffling mysteries in Victorian London.

Victorian mystery novels are quite interesting. One of their main characteristics is the use of the Victorian backdrop. This era was full of contradictions, with great wealth for some and extreme poverty for others. In these novels, this contrast often plays a role in the mystery. For instance, a crime might be related to someone trying to climb the social ladder or protect their family's reputation. The language used in these novels is also quite elaborate, which adds to the overall atmosphere. The pacing is usually such that it builds suspense gradually. There are often sub - plots that intertwine with the main mystery, making the story more complex and engaging for the reader.

They often feature complex plots. There are usually multiple layers of mystery and intrigue. For example, in many of these novels, a crime occurs in a seemingly ordinary Victorian setting like a grand manor or a fog - filled London street. The characters are typically well - defined, with strict social hierarchies being a big part of the story. The detectives or protagonists in these novels often have to navigate through the complex web of Victorian society to solve the mystery.

Victorian era mystery novels are known for their elaborate and convoluted plots. The stories were set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing society. There was a great deal of emphasis on the details of the Victorian era, such as the clothing, the architecture, and the social etiquette. Detectives in these novels were often amateur sleuths, who used their wits and knowledge of human nature to solve the mysteries. These novels also explored themes like the role of women in society, as female characters were sometimes the ones solving the mysteries, challenging the traditional gender roles of the time.

Another great one is 'The Woman in White' by Wilkie Collins. It has a gripping mystery around a woman in white who seems to be involved in some sort of intrigue. The novel uses multiple narrators which adds to the mystery and the exploration of Victorian society.

One of the best is 'The Moonstone' by Wilkie Collins. It's often considered the first modern English detective novel. The complex plot involves a stolen diamond and a host of suspicious characters. Another great one is 'Sherlock Holmes' stories by Arthur Conan Doyle. Holmes' brilliant deductions and the Victorian London setting make them timeless. Then there's 'The Woman in White' also by Wilkie Collins, with its mystery surrounding a woman in white who appears at night.

One characteristic is the detailed portrayal of Victorian society. These novels often show the strict social classes, from the poor working class to the wealthy aristocracy. For example, in 'Great Expectations', we see Pip's attempts to rise through the social ranks. Another is the use of complex language. Victorian writers had a rich vocabulary and elaborate writing styles. Also, many of these novels deal with moral and ethical issues, like in 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' where the consequences of a hedonistic lifestyle are explored.

Well, one characteristic is the elaborate settings. They often depict the grandeur of Victorian society, like the big mansions and fancy ballrooms. The characters usually follow strict social codes of the time. And the romances are often slow - burning, with a lot of unspoken emotions and glances.