Gone Girl

by Gillian Flynn
Gone Girl cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Thriller/Suspense
Technical:
  • ID: 650
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-09-18
  • ISBN: 9780297859406
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2012-05-24
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99–£10.99

Gone Girl is a psychological thriller that has captivated readers worldwide, with over 20 million copies sold. The novel explores the complexities of marriage and the facades people maintain in their relationships. Nick Dunne's life takes a dramatic turn when his wife Amy vanishes on their fifth anniversary, and the evidence increasingly points to him as the prime suspect. As the investigation unfolds, Nick's computer searches and mysterious phone calls raise more questions than answers. The book is praised for its dark, twisted plot and its ability to mess with the reader's mind, making it a near-masterpiece in the genre of psychological crime writing. /n/n The novel is not just a thriller but also a sharp observation of modern life post the credit crunch, delving into the intricacies of a mismatched relationship. Flynn's brilliant plotting and sharp observations make this book a standout in contemporary fiction, cleverly outpacing its neo-noir trappings and consistently surprising the reader.

Reviews
Julia's Books · 2020-02-09
compelling 4.50

The book excels as a thriller and offers profound insights into sexual politics. The writing is engaging and thought-provoking, making it a standout read.

Julia's Books highlights how Gone Girl is not just a thrilling read but also a profound exploration of sexual politics within relationships and society. The reviewer appreciates the engaging writing style and the way the novel delves into complex themes. While it may not be a literary masterpiece, it certainly holds its own as a compelling thriller. The characters are likable despite their flaws, adding to the overall enjoyment of the book.

Quick quotes

    The book is fantastic as a straight-up thriller, but also says a lot about sexual politics, both within relationships and in wider society.

    The writing was still great, the characters likable despite their flaws.

    It's a compelling read that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

The Black Lit Queen · 2018-06-01
engaging 3.50

Despite a slow start and minor flaws, the book is highly recommended for its great writing and engaging story. The characters, though unlikable, add to the overall intrigue.

The reviewer notes that while the beginning of Gone Girl is slow and there are some minor flaws, the book is still highly recommended. The writing is excellent, and the story is engaging, making it a worthwhile read. The characters, though unlikable, are intriguing and add depth to the narrative. The reviewer appreciates the complexity of the characters and the way they drive the story forward, despite their flaws.

Quick quotes

    I liked it but from the slow beginning and the minor flaws this was not my favorite.

    I still highly recommend, the writing was still great, the characters likable despite their flaws.

    The book is a likable book full of unlikable characters.

The Guardian · 2015-09-25
thrilling 4.00

Gone Girl is a thrilling and disturbing read that masterfully balances fear and intrigue. The novel's pacing and character development make it a standout in the thriller genre.

This novel is a masterclass in suspense, weaving a tale that is as unsettling as it is captivating. The author's ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats is commendable, and the exploration of darker themes adds depth to the story. While some might find the pacing slow initially, it builds to a crescendo that is well worth the wait. The characters are complex and flawed, making them both relatable and intriguing, which adds to the overall enjoyment of the book.

Quick quotes

    Gone Girl packs a winning formula, by frightening, enchanting, disturbing and intriguing its readers all at once.

    Gillian Flynn, with this novel, has crafted a tale that is both thrilling and thought-provoking.

    The novel's ability to balance fear and intrigue is what makes it a standout in the thriller genre.

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