Rebecca

by Daphne du Maurier, Daphne Du Maurier
Rebecca cover
Good Books rating 4.6
Psychological Thriller
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Paperback • £9.99–£10.99 Hardback • £16.99
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Technical
  • ID: 27
  • Added: 2025-08-10
  • Updated: 2026-03-04
  • ISBN: 9781405513463
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2012-02-09
  • Formats: 107
  • Reviews: 4

In the South of France, a shy young woman falls in love with the enigmatic Maxim de Winter, a widower with a dark past. As they return to his estate, Manderley, the new bride finds herself overshadowed by the memory of Maxim's first wife, Rebecca, whose presence looms large over every aspect of their lives. The young Mrs. de Winter struggles to find her place in this new world, grappling with the secrets and lies that surround her. /n/n Rebecca is a timeless exploration of the complexities of love, identity, and the power of the past. Daphne du Maurier's masterful storytelling and atmospheric prose create a chilling and suspenseful narrative that has earned its place as a classic of psychological fiction. The novel's enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a sense of dread and unease, as well as its poignant portrayal of a young woman's journey towards self-discovery.

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.

Toby A. Smith · Toby A. Smith · 2023-10-27
favorite 5.00

Rebecca is a favorite among Du Maurier's works, praised for its timeless appeal and masterful storytelling. It's a novel that leaves a lasting impression.

Toby A. Smith considers Rebecca to be one of Du Maurier's finest works, and he has read most of her novels. He praises the novel's timeless appeal and its ability to captivate readers with its intricate plot and well-developed characters. Smith appreciates the way Du Maurier builds suspense and tension, making the reader feel both intrigued and unsettled. He also notes that the novel's themes are timeless, resonating with readers even decades after its publication. Smith found the novel to be a deeply satisfying and memorable read, one that he would highly recommend to fans of gothic fiction.

Quick quotes

    REBECCA is probably my favorite of du Maurier's novels, and I have read most of what she has written and loved them all.

    The novel's timeless appeal and masterful storytelling make it a standout in the gothic genre.

    It's a novel that leaves a lasting impression, long after the last page has been turned.

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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