3.81 AVERAGE


Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier has been one of my favorite gothic novels for a very long time, yet I somehow kept putting off reading Jamaica Inn. Another gothic mystery, this one didn't have quite the same punch, but still gave those same fantastic atmospheric vibes. The setting is perfect...come on, when were the moors not great for a literary setting?...and everything is very gray and murky, even the circumstances of the happenings at Jamaica Inn.

I enjoyed du Maurier's clever writing and the way she really brings her characters to life. Joss is a terrible person who I hated right off the bat, but he is incredibly tangible in the writing, which just makes him a character who stands super firmly. Mary is a great female protagonist and I loved her fighting spirit. If you enjoy Austen's brazen heroines, then Mary is the right girl for you.

The plot wasn't quite as much as I expected, but I think that's just because I was in the mood for some extra spooky reads at the time. It is still well-written and follows a logical train of thought. The suspense is high and I truly wasn't sure what to expect. A nice dark, gothic read...perfect for a cold & dreary day or cozy night.
adventurous mysterious medium-paced

I'm hesitating between 3 and 4 stars but an intriguing read.

Mary is up there with the best heroines in literature. Femininity be damned, she does what she wants!
adventurous dark mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No

This is a typical "school" book. It was sold to me as an adventurous book about smugglers and a girl trying to maneuver her way in this world... Sure those things happen, but 90% of the book isn't really about it and more about the character herself. Very beautifully written, but this is for sure one of those books that would make teenagers hate reading; as it is incredibly slow paced and nothing much truly happens. Thankfully I am no longer a teenager and could appreciate the writing, but if you are looking for an exciting adventure; this isn't it.
adventurous dark mysterious tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
adventurous dark tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: No
dark mysterious slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
dark tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Loveable characters: Complicated