The Maidens by Alex Michaelides
Reviewed by: Susie Rivera, Reference Specialist
Genre: Mystery, Thriller
Suggested Age: Adults
What is This Book About?: Mariana is a psychologist who is called to return to Cambridge, her alma mater, after a female student was found murdered. She is asked to assist with the investigation as a group counselor. She finds out that her niece, as well as the deceased, were a part of an exclusive group called The Maidens. This study group is run by Edward Fosca, a handsome, charismatic classics professor interested in Greek tragedy and sacrifice. Mariana begins to suspect Fosca as a the obvious murderer, but can it be that simple?
My Review: The Maidens is not the typical book that I usually pick up, but I thought I would give it a try due to its dark academic vibes and literary references. I really enjoyed this novel! The main character was likeable, and I was interested in how her past experiences shaped her present psychology. There are a few glimpses into the POV of who the reader assumes is the killer. Those are a bit hard to read due to some violence, but they are few a far between. Mariana’s perspective clearly dominates the narrative. I listened to the streaming audio narrated by Louise Brealey who does an amazing job as the protagonist.
Three Words That Describe This Book: Suspenseful, Dark, Surprising
Give This a Try if You Like… The Silent Patient, Secret History, We Were Villians
Rating: 5/5
About FDL Reads
FDL Reads is a series of weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library.
