Intrigue and Suspense in Classic Literature: ‘Rebecca’ Book Review
By: Joni Boyd
“Last night I dreamt I went to Manderley again”.
It’s one of literature’s most famous first lines – and for good reason.
In the classic novel ‘Rebecca’ by Daphne du Maurier, an unnamed young woman marries a mysterious wealthy widower, before realising that he and his household are haunted by the memory of his late wife, Rebecca.
The novel is full of intrigue, written in the Gothic fiction style, which was popular in 1938 when it was first published.
English novelist and playwright Daphne du Maurier (1907-1989) was one of the most successful Cornish novelists of all time and is best known for writing ‘Rebecca’ which won the National Book Award in 1938.
I had put off reading ‘Rebecca’ for a long time, despite coming highly recommended – I think I was expecting it to be ‘creepy’ or ‘scary’… it was neither.
Each page drips with intrigue and mystery but without anything too upsetting or graphic involved with the plot.
Rebecca – the late wife – is the mystery around which the entire novel revolves. And the conclusion doesn’t disappoint!
I enjoyed the internal dialogue, getting to know intimately, the unnamed protagonist who faces self-doubt and insecurity while trying to save her marriage – and her life.
Christian themes tackled in ‘Rebecca’ include the corrosive nature of jealousy and the importance of keeping our identity and self-worth in Christ.
The reality that lies and deception can only cause pain and destruction is evident, as well as the importance of forgiveness and living in the present, rather than the past.
I’m intrigued to know why du Maurier kept the narrator/protagonist’s name a mystery.
Was this to signify a lack of her own identity? If I could have a cup of tea with the author, I’d ask her this, among many other questions.
Those who enjoy classic literature, thrillers and mysteries will enjoy ‘Rebecca’ as well as anyone interested in historical fiction.
The book will make you feel like you’re being sucked into a mystery which is heart-breaking and compelling all at the same time.
I couldn’t put it down, once I started reading.
‘Rebecca’ deserves its place as a masterpiece of 20th-century Gothic literature.
I give ‘Rebecca’ 4 stars out of 5.
Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.
Feature image: Book cover used with permission
About the Author: Joni Boyd is a writer, based in the Hawkesbury Region of NSW. She is passionate about the power of stories shared, to transform lives.
