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3.59 AVERAGE
3.59 AVERAGE
dark
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
didn’t want to put it down. hated the protagonist tho.
horrifically boring and cringy and the fact it tried positioning itself as a thriller let alone a jane eyre retelling is sure something
A retelling of my favorite novel, Jane Eyre, with strong undertones from Daphne DuMaurier's Rebecca. If you're very familiar with Jane Eyre, this story is full of Easter eggs. While the original story is one of romance and mystery, this retelling is mostly a thriller with little in the way of genuine romance, and none of the main characters are very likeable. This was a quick page-turner, with the action getting under way within the first few pages with no time wasted, and it's an interesting darker twist on a classic story.
This one was so fun. I thought the way it came together was very clever. It’s a loose adaptation for sure but I kind of prefer that—if you’re going to do a spin on a classic, why not make it fun and play with the plot? It was enough that the lines directly referencing Jane Eyre really tickled me. There is something kind of formulaic about Hawkins’s novels—the insecure, tough as nails protagonist feels out of place and tries to make an identity through really weird and ambiguous female friendships—but I’m still here for it. For me it was a perfect beachy read with a good amount of intrigue.
Honestly, my favorite part is Hampden-Sydney and Randolph-Macon College being treated like they’re the Harvard and Yale of the South! 3 stars!
The whole book was great. I felt let down at the ending
"The Wife Upstairs" is a masterfully crafted thriller that delivers on every front – suspense, intrigue, and an intricate web of secrets. Rachel Hawkins weaves a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, expertly blurring the lines between deception and truth.
The book's exploration of class dynamics and the facades people wear adds depth to the storyline. The characters, particularly Jane and Eddie, are multi-dimensional and morally complex, making them both captivating and unsettling. The layers of their personalities unfold in ways that constantly challenge our assumptions.
Hawkins's writing style is taut and evocative, ratcheting up the tension with each chapter. The pacing is masterfully executed, with revelations and twists that are genuinely surprising, even for seasoned thriller enthusiasts. The narrative is immersive, capturing the essence of a small Southern town where everyone seems to harbor secrets.
What sets "The Wife Upstairs" apart is its ability to subvert expectations. The book teases readers with familiar thriller tropes but then deftly steers into unexpected territory, leaving us guessing until the very end. The psychological intricacies and moral dilemmas that emerge make the narrative both captivating and thought-provoking.
In conclusion, "The Wife Upstairs" is a stellar addition to the thriller genre. Rachel Hawkins's storytelling prowess shines brightly, crafting a narrative that is as twisted as it is compelling. If you're seeking a read that will keep you guessing, immersed, and eager to unravel its mysteries, this book is an absolute must-read that delivers on its promises with style and finesse.