Rebecca

by Daphne du Maurier
Rebecca cover
Good Books rating 4.47
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Paperback • £10.99 Hardback • £16.99
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  • ID: 27
  • Added: 2025-08-10
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • ISBN: 9781405513463
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2012-02-09
  • Formats: 102
  • Reviews: 3

The bestselling classic and masterpiece of psychological fiction 'The greatest psychological thriller of all time' ERIN KELLY 'The book every writer wishes they'd written' CLARE MACKINTOSH 'Excellent entertainment . . . du Maurier created a scale by which modern women can measure their feelings' STEPHEN KING On a trip to the South of France, the shy heroine of Rebecca falls in love with Maxim de Winter, a handsome widower. Although his proposal comes as a surprise, she happily agrees to marry him. But as they arrive at her husband's home, Manderley, a change comes over Maxim, and the young bride is filled with dread. Friendless in the isolated mansion, she realises that she barely knows him. In every corner of every room is the phantom of his beautiful first wife, Rebecca, and the new Mrs de Winter walks in her shadow. Not since Jane Eyre has a heroine faced such difficulty with the other woman. An international bestseller that has never gone out of print, Rebecca is the haunting story of a young girl consumed by love and the struggle to find her identity. 'Rebecca is a masterpiece' GUARDIAN 'This chilling, suspenseful tale is as fresh and readable as it was when it was first written' DAILY TELEGRAPH

Reviews
thebookwasbetter.co.uk · 2025-05-05
harrowing 4.50

Rebecca is praised as more than a gothic tale; it is described as a harrowing exploration of love, identity, and psychological complexity.

The reviewer views Rebecca as a deeply harrowing novel that transcends typical gothic stories. They emphasize the emotional intensity and the profound psychological struggle experienced by the narrator, who grows from a shy, insecure woman into someone with greater self-awareness through her relationship with Maxim. The novel’s exploration of themes such as identity, love, and the shadow of the past makes it a compelling and emotionally resonant read. The reviewer also appreciates the novel’s pacing and its ability to maintain suspense and emotional tension.

Quick quotes

    Rebecca is so much more than a haunting story or gothic tale.

    It’s a harrowing exploration of love, identity, and psychological complexity.

    The narrator’s journey from insecurity to self-awareness is powerfully portrayed.

The Wallflower Digest · 2024-02-29
intriguing 4.20

The portrayal of Rebecca as both charming and manipulative adds complexity to the story, emphasizing the haunting presence she maintains despite her absence.

This review highlights the dual nature of Rebecca's character, depicting her as a charismatic hostess loved by many, yet deeply manipulative, especially towards the housekeeper Mrs. Danvers. The reviewer appreciates how this complexity enriches the narrative, making Rebecca's ghostly influence a central and compelling force throughout the novel. They note that the story’s strength lies not just in its gothic atmosphere but in the psychological depth of its characters and the tension created by Rebecca's lingering presence.

Quick quotes

    Rebecca was charming, beautiful and renowned hostess, loved by all, but especially by the housekeeper Mrs Danvers.

    Rebecca’s haunting presence dominates the household despite her physical absence.

    The complexity of Rebecca’s character adds layers to the narrative’s psychological tension.

Reading Sheffield · 2022-11-10
great 4.70

This review praises Rebecca as a favorite novel with strong female characters, comparing it favorably to Jane Eyre, and highlighting its lasting emotional impact and appeal.

Reading Sheffield expresses a deep personal affection for Rebecca, citing it as a favorite book, particularly appreciating its strong female characters and the emotional depth they bring. The review draws a parallel to Jane Eyre, suggesting that both novels feature compelling, resilient women who resonate strongly with readers. The timeless quality of Rebecca is emphasized, as well as its ability to engage readers through its gothic atmosphere and complex interpersonal dynamics, securing its place as a classic.

Quick quotes

    Rebecca is my favourite book of all time.

    Both Rebecca and Jane Eyre have strong female characters.

    The book’s emotional depth and gothic elements create lasting appeal.

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