The Talented Mr. Ripley

by Patricia Highsmith
The Talented Mr. Ripley cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Technical
  • ID: 4310
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
The Library Ladies · 2024-09-05
exciting 4.00

The book is a wicked thrill, showcasing Ripley's gradual takeover of Dickie's life. The tension and suspense are masterfully crafted.

The reviewer finds a wicked thrill in watching Ripley's slow and calculated takeover of Dickie's life. The tension and suspense are highlighted as key elements that make the novel so engaging. The reviewer also notes the complexity of Ripley's character, who is both charming and terrifying. The psychological aspects of the story are particularly praised, as they add layers of depth to the narrative. The reviewer appreciates how Highsmith keeps the reader guessing, making it a page-turner.

Quick quotes

    In this book, it's just a bit of a wicked thrill to see how he slowly takes over Dickie's life and wealth.

    The tension and suspense are masterfully crafted, making it a compelling read.

    Ripley's character is both charming and terrifying, adding layers of depth to the narrative.

Books on the 747 · 2023-08-27
intriguing 4.25

The novel is a gripping exploration of psychological tension and moral ambiguity. The protagonist's descent into darkness is both chilling and compelling.

This review highlights the novel's ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats. The psychological depth of the characters, particularly Tom Ripley, is praised for its complexity and realism. The reviewer notes how Highsmith masterfully builds tension, making the reader complicit in Ripley's actions. The moral ambiguity of the story is particularly noted, as it challenges the reader's own sense of right and wrong. The reviewer also appreciates the atmospheric setting and the way it enhances the overall narrative.

Quick quotes

    The Talented Mr. Ripley is a crime thriller that delves deep into psychological motivations.

    It's the story of Tom Ripley and Dickie Greenleaf, a tale of deception and dark desires.

    Highsmith's writing is sharp and unsettling, making it a compelling read.

The Guardian · 2015-06-09
unsettling 3.75

The novel offers a queasy kind of entertainment, making the reader an armchair psychologist. The protagonist's amoral nature is both fascinating and disturbing.

The reviewer describes the novel as a queasy kind of entertainment, highlighting the psychological aspects that make it so intriguing. The amoral nature of the protagonist is noted as both fascinating and disturbing. The reviewer appreciates how Highsmith challenges the reader's own sense of morality and psychology. The novel is praised for its ability to keep the reader engaged, despite the unsettling nature of the story. The reviewer also notes the perfect case study that Ripley's character provides for an armchair psychologist.

Quick quotes

    Patricia Highsmith's amoral protagonist in The Talented Mr Ripley offers a queasy kind of entertainment.

    It's an armchair psychologist's perfect case study.

    The novel challenges the reader's own sense of morality and psychology.

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