The Maidens
Alex Michaelides once again proves his mastery of the psychological thriller genre in his gripping new book, The Maidens, set against the backdrop of Cambridge University, where Michaelides studied.
The novel at once takes on an ancient, secretive note, as the interiors of the fictional St Christopher’s College are based on Trinity College, one of Michaelides’ favourite places on earth. He channels his melancholy memories into the novel’s protagonist, Mariana, a brilliant group therapist who becomes entangled in a series of murders that rocks the campus. Flawed but determined, she uncovers shocking connections between the victims and an exclusive academic society called The Maidens, and the boundaries between reality and delusion begin to blur.
“We are born being watched – our parents’ expressions, what we see reflected in the mirror of their eyes, determines how we see ourselves.”
In terms of style, Michaelides continues to build intricate, twisting plots that keep readers guessing. Even though both books had elements related to therapy, he intentionally wanted The Maidens to be deeper and darker than The Silent Patient; that said, the book did move at a brisker pace with more constant forward momentum in its plot reveals.
The reference to Greek mythology added psychological layers to the characters and was a unique touch to the college campus thriller, making it seem more grounded with solid arcs than the previous novel. Perhaps too many story elements ended up being far-fetched and irrelevant red herrings, as the ending, though unexpected, left something to be desired. It’s still a riveting psychological thriller nonetheless, and I’m keeping my eyes peeled for Michaelides’ third novel, The Fury, set to release in January 2024.
Book recommendations:
A Judgement in Stone by Ruth Rendell
The Hollow by Agatha Christie
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
The Victorian Chaise Longue by Marghanita Laski
The Turn of the Screw by Henry James
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