I first read Collins' book "Moonstone". This got me intrested in his other works. "After Dark" is an anthology of tales. The main charactor is an out of work portrait painter in the 1800's. Temporarily unable to paint do to an ailment, both his wife and doctor encourage him to place down in print tales recited to him recited to him by his clients. The tales range from attempted 'murder and robbery' to injustice during th French revolution.

Each story is well told and thoughtful. Like many other authors of the period, he tries to capture the humanity of his charactors, and in Collin's case, wrap those charactors in an exciting venue.