Hide and Seek

<p><I>Hide and Seek</I> (1854) is a novel by Wilkie Collins. Written in the aftermath of <I>Antonina</I> (1850) his successful debut <I>Hide and Seek</I> finds the author honing the trademark sense of mystery and psychological unease that would make him a household name around the world. Recognized as an important Victorian novelist and pioneer of detective fiction Wilkie Collins was a writer with a gift for thoughtful entertainment stories written for a popular audience that continue to resonate with scholars and readers today. Mary Grice a young woman of wealth and social standing becomes pregnant after a brief affair with a man calling himself Arthur Carr. Banished from her home she dies during childbirth in the care of a group of circus performers who adopt the baby as their own. Raised by Martha Peckover the wife of a clown young Mary is exploited by the circus owner following an accident with a horse which leaves her deaf and mute. In order to save her Martha brings Mary to a minister who ensures she is adopted into a good home. Taken in by the Blyth family Mary becomes known as Madonna for her beauty and grace and soon catches the eye of Zack Thorpe. As the story unfolds a mystery involving Mary's father begins to take shape with implications for her blossoming romance with Zack. Beyond its sensational plot <I>Hide and Seek</I> is a masterpiece of Gothic suspense and mystery for seasoned readers of Victorian fiction and newcomers alike. With a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript this edition of Wilkie Collins' <I>Hide and Seek</I> is a classic work of English literature reimagined for modern readers.</p>