A review by muninnherself
Beautiful Shadow: A Life of Patricia Highsmith by Andrew Wilson

5.0

This is an extremely detailed and comprehensive biography - it's hard to imagine that Wilson has missed more than a fleeting thought from Highsmith, who helpfully kept copious notes about her state of mind as well as being a prolific correspondant. I've only read Carol, which is generally considered to be rather different from her other books (certainly the only one published under a pseudonym) but I exect I shall read Ripley at some point. A fascinating insight into a complex and troubled life. Her thoughts about the writing process are particularly interesting. It's quite a hefty tome but no wonder, as she worked hard, travelled a lot, and had an extremely busy love life.