The Dead Alive

"The Dead Alive" is a novella written by Wilkie Collins, a renowned English novelist and playwright of the 19th century. This work was first serialized in 1874 in the magazine "The New Monthly Magazine" before being published as a book. The novella is also known by the title "John Jago's Ghost; or, The Dead Alive." The plot revolves around a young man named John Jago, who works as a clerk in a legal firm. John becomes entangled in a mysterious and sinister plot when he is sent to a remote village to investigate the apparent death of an elderly woman named Mrs. Mardyke. As John delves deeper into the case, he discovers that things are not as they seem, and the village holds dark secrets. The narrative is characterized by its suspenseful and gothic elements, as well as its exploration of themes such as crime, justice, and the supernatural. Collins, known for his skillful storytelling and mastery of mystery and suspense, creates a gripping atmosphere as he weaves a tale of intrigue and deception. "The Dead Alive" is not as well-known as some of Collins's other works, such as "The Woman in White" or "The Moonstone," but it showcases his talent for crafting compelling narratives with unexpected twists. As with many of Collins's works, the novella explores the complexities of human nature and the consequences of hidden truths.