My Cousin Rachel by Daphne du Maurier

Philip Ashley, a young Englishman, becomes entangled with the enigmatic Countess Sangalletti when he travels to Italy to uncover the truth behind his cousin's suspicious demise. The Countess, a widow with a mysterious past, draws Philip into a world of passion, deception, and uncertainty, blurring the lines between love and betrayal. /n/n As Philip delves deeper into the circumstances surrounding his cousin's death, he finds himself increasingly captivated by the Countess's charm and allure. However, the more he learns about her, the more he questions her true intentions and the nature of their relationship. Set against the backdrop of the picturesque Italian countryside, this gothic tale of suspense and romance keeps readers on the edge of their seats, wondering who to trust and what secrets lie hidden in the shadows.

Reviews

The Gothic Library · 2023-10-30

intriguing 4.00

The novel's ambiguous ending is its most notable aspect, leaving readers to question Rachel's guilt. The narrative structure and characterisation are also praised.

The Gothic Library focuses on the ambiguous ending of 'My Cousin Rachel', noting that it is the most notable aspect of the novel. The reviewer appreciates how the book never definitively answers whether Rachel is guilty of murder, leaving readers to draw their own conclusions. They also praise the narrative structure and characterisation, highlighting du Maurier's skill in creating a suspenseful and engaging story. The reviewer finds the novel to be a masterful exploration of ambiguity and moral complexity.

Quick quotes

The most notable aspect of this novel is its ambiguous ending.

The book never definitively answers the question of whether Rachel is guilty of murder or not.

Du Maurier's skill in creating a suspenseful and engaging story is evident throughout.

These Little Words · 2020-10-10

excellent 5.00

The novel is a masterpiece in narrative structure and characterisation, possibly one of the best books ever read. The reviewer is captivated by du Maurier's writing.

The reviewer from These Little Words describes 'My Cousin Rachel' as a masterpiece in narrative structure and characterisation. They are captivated by du Maurier's writing, finding the novel to be one of the best they have ever read. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the characters and the intricate plot, which keeps them engaged throughout. They also note the novel's ability to evoke a range of emotions, making it a truly memorable read. The reviewer is particularly impressed by du Maurier's skill in creating a suspenseful and thought-provoking story.

Quick quotes

Simply put, My Cousin Rachel is a masterpiece in narrative structure and characterisation.

Possibly one of the best books I've ever read.

Du Maurier's skill in creating a suspenseful and thought-provoking story is evident throughout.

The Guardian · Julie Myerson · 2017-06-17

brilliant 4.50

The novel is a tightly plotted, sinuous and undeniably feral piece of work that puts power in the hands of women. It is a masterful exploration of ambiguity and female agency.

Julie Myerson from The Guardian highlights how 'My Cousin Rachel' is a tightly plotted, sinuous, and undeniably feral piece of work. She appreciates how the novel puts power in the hands of women, making it a masterful exploration of ambiguity and female agency. Myerson also notes the novel's ability to keep readers guessing until the very end, making it a compelling read. She praises du Maurier's skill in creating a narrative that is both suspenseful and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Quick quotes

Du Maurier's novel is a tightly plotted, sinuous and undeniably feral piece of work that puts power in the hands of women.

The novel's ability to keep readers guessing until the very end makes it a compelling read.

Du Maurier's skill in creating a narrative that is both suspenseful and thought-provoking is evident throughout.

Appears in Lists

10 Best Daphne du Maurier Books (2025)