Basil (The ^AWorld's Classics)

I have read quite a few books by Wilkie Collins, and while this one wasn't the best, it was still great. It was written in a different style from his other books, but pulls you right into the story and keeps your interest throughout. Definitely recommended to anyone who is a fan of this genre.

Basil is a naive sap that any woman wish would fall for her! He completely falls in love with a woman who is only interested in his money but of course, he is blind to that....sounds like a silly romance novel, which I loathe, BUT because it was written in the 1800's, there are descriptive characters, fabulous use of the English language. Collins makes me love mysteries and romance, neither of which type book I read if written in "today's" time. Love every single book of his that I have read, six so far and counting.....

Wilkie Collins came to fame with 'The Woman in White', followed by a succession of 'suspense' novels which are his trademark. 'Basil' is an earlier yet surprisingly mature work, and it is not a suspense novel. 'Basil' chronicles the life of a young, foolish man who falls in love (literally) at first sight with a young woman. He then discovers, too late, that this 'sweet young thing' is not as she first appeared. The author captures Basil's anguish perfectly. While some people might find the entire story to be a bit contrived, I found the emotional element of writing to greatly outweigh this 'love at first' kitsch.So in conclusion, 'Basil' should have a wider appeal beyond the Wilkie Collins fan club. Folks who love mid-Victorian writing will find much to enjoy with 'Basil'.

After reading The Woman in White, A Rogue's Life, and attemting The Moonstone, I picked up Basil. Basil's story was more absorbing than any of the other books and my sympathies were entirely with him. I felt his betrayal and utter dejection. If only I could have been his friend!