Written by Charles Dickens in the late 19th century, The Mystery of Edwin Drood centers around the mysterious disappearance of its main character, Edwin Drood. This story weaves together themes of love, betrayal, and moral complexity, unfolding through fascinating characters, particularly his uncle, John Jasper, a choir master, and his fiancee, Rosa Bud. The novel begins with a dark, atmospheric scene where Jasper awakens in a dingy room, filled with confusion and dread, hinting at his inner turmoil and opium use. The narrative then shifts to Cloisterham, where Edwin Drood interacts with various characters, notably engaging in an awkward conversation with Rosa, hinting at the complexities of their relationship. These opening chapters set the stage for a tale steeped in secrecy and ambiguity, as Jasper’s obscure intentions and the tense dynamics between characters become central elements driving the unfolding mystery.

CHAPTER I. THE DAWN
CHAPTER II. A DEAN, AND A CHAPTER ALSO
CHAPTER III. THE NUNS’ HOUSE
CHAPTER IV. MR. SAPSEA
CHAPTER V. MR. DURDLES AND FRIEND
CHAPTER VI. PHILANTHROPY IN MINOR CANON CORNER
CHAPTER VII. MORE CONFIDENCES THAN ONE
CHAPTER VIII. DAGGERS DRAWN
CHAPTER IX. BIRDS IN THE BUSH
CHAPTER X. SMOOTHING THE WAY
CHAPTER XI. A PICTURE AND A RING
CHAPTER XII. A NIGHT WITH DURDLES
CHAPTER XIII. BOTH AT THEIR BEST
CHAPTER XIV. WHEN SHALL THESE THREE MEET AGAIN?
CHAPTER XV. IMPEACHED
CHAPTER XVI. DEVOTED
CHAPTER XVII. PHILANTHROPY, PROFESSIONAL AND UNPROFESSIONAL
CHAPTER XVIII. A SETTLER IN CLOISTERHAM
CHAPTER XIX. SHADOW ON THE SUN-DIAL
CHAPTER XX. A FLIGHT
CHAPTER XXI. A RECOGNITION
CHAPTER XXII. A GRITTY STATE OF THINGS COMES ON
CHAPTER XXIII. THE DAWN AGAIN