The Moonstone

By: Wilkie Collins

Narrated by: B. J. Harrison

Length: 20 hrs

Publisher's summary

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.

Great voice, story similar to pink panther

What made the experience of listening to The Moonstone the most enjoyable?

The voice was excellent, and they story was fun.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Miss. Clack is a hilarious pious woman. Sgt. Cuff is also a fun character.

Have you listened to any of B. J. Harrison’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

no

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

If you like the pink panther mysteries, then you will love this.

Any additional comments?

Enjoyable story. Wonderful reader. The story is engaging, but little long.

Good story, great characters

The performance of this book is super. The characters form themselves so clearly and colourfully, that even the most commonplace events are lively.

The story surprised me more than once. These were more in the form of gentle turns in the plot than jarring moments, which made the whole experience very enjoyable from first to last.

I also love Robinson Crusoe.

Hope to get a real British narrator

I have been so confused by the accent of the narrator, sometime sounds like British sometime like American. Then I checked and found the narrator is an American, but have tried narrating with British accent. I don’t say the narration is bad, but a bit weird. I prefer a consistent accent rather altering all the time.