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The Disappearance of Stephanie Miller by Joël Dicker
If you loved 'The Truth About the Harry Quebert Affair', you'll devour this addictive mystery novel by Joël Dicker. It's a must-read for fans of suspense and intrigue, with a story that's impossible to put down.
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A Gripping Detective Novel, But Not My Favorite Dickens Book
summarizeEditor's Summary
I devoured all of Dickens' books this summer and I'm still reeling from the experience. The Disappearance is a standalone novel that's a real page-turner. It's not my favorite Dickens book, but I loved the complex characters and the twisty plot. If you're a fan of detective novels, you'll likely devour it in one sitting. Be prepared for a wild ride with multiple plot twists and turns.
settingsSpecifications
Kararİyi
HikayeKalitesi8/10
DetektifHikayesi9/10
KarakterGeliştirme7/10
I devoured all of Dickens' books this summer, and I'm still reeling from the experience. I discovered this author through two other books, which I'll link to at the end of this review.
The Disappearance is a standalone novel, unrelated to the author's other works. The story starts like a classic detective novel: two young cops, Jesse and Derek, solved a high-profile murder case 20 years ago. The main suspect died during arrest, and the case was closed. When Jesse is about to retire, a journalist named Stephanie contacts him, claiming they wrongly accused the killer. Later, the journalist disappears, and Jesse and his former partner, Derek, decide to investigate both her disappearance and their old case.
The main characters are two experienced cops, Jesse and Derek, who return to their hometown of Orpheus. They've got a personal tragedy in their past, which is revealed closer to the end. But Dickens doesn't focus much on the characters' personalities, instead concentrating on the detective plot.
The disappearance of Stephanie is just a consequence of a distant, high-profile murder in the town. I enjoyed the detective storyline, which is well-crafted and engaging. I wouldn't have guessed the killer's identity even if you paid me. The author masterfully weaves together the past and present, creating an atmosphere of intrigue.
Dickens skillfully combines elements of detective and thriller genres, creating a unique style. However, unlike his previous two books, which focused on the main characters' lives and personalities, this novel prioritizes the detective plot. Once I knew the killer's identity and motive, the book became less interesting. I wouldn't want to re-read it like I would his other works.
In my opinion, the author overdid it with the melodrama – the so-called 'black night,' mysterious villains, and a slight supernatural twist. However, the motives behind the crime remain within the realm of human depravity. Of course, Dickens surprised me in the end, and I wouldn't have guessed the killer's identity.
For fans of the detective genre, The Disappearance of Stephanie Meyer is an excellent choice. You'll appreciate the author's skill and enjoy the read. But like many detective novels, this one is a one-time read.Other books by this author:
The Alaska Case
The Baltimore Book
live_helpFeatured FAQ
Is this book part of a series?
No, The Disappearance is a standalone novel and can be read as a one-off.
Is this book suitable for all ages?
No, this book deals with mature themes and contains some violence and strong language.
What inspired the author to write this book?
The author was inspired by their own experiences as a detective and wanted to explore the complexities of justice and redemption.
How long does it take to read this book?
The book is approximately 300 pages long and can be read in a weekend or a few days.
Is this book available in audiobook format?
Yes, The Disappearance is available in audiobook format on popular platforms like Audible and Amazon.
Can I return this book if I don't like it?
Yes, most bookstores and online retailers offer a return policy, so you can return the book if you don't like it.
Is this book part of a classic literature curriculum?
No, this book is not part of a classic literature curriculum, but it's a great addition to any reading list.
Can I read this book in a day?
Yes, this book is a quick and engaging read, and you can easily finish it in a day or two.
What are the main themes of this book?
The main themes of this book are justice and redemption.
check_circlePros
- •The main characters, Jesse and Derek, are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to become invested in their investigation.
- •The plot is engaging and full of twists and turns, keeping me on the edge of my seat until the very end.
- •The writing is descriptive and immersive, making it easy to picture the scenes and characters.
- •The themes of justice and redemption are timely and thought-provoking.
- •The pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of action, suspense, and quiet moments.
- •The supporting characters are well-developed and add depth to the story.
cancelCons
- •The book can be a bit slow-paced at times, especially in the middle section.
- •Some of the supporting characters feel a bit one-dimensional.
- •The ending is a bit rushed and feels a bit convenient.
- •The book relies a bit too heavily on coincidences and convenient plot devices.
- •The themes of justice and redemption can feel a bit heavy-handed at times.
- •The book could benefit from a bit more world-building and context.
