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singalana's review against another edition
challenging
mysterious
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
I have seen the 1999 movie based on this book. However, I didn’t remember much from it, so I can’t really compare these two.
Patricia Highsmith is an interesting character who has written many novels, many of which dealt with homosexuality in some way. The Talented Mr. Ripley, the opening book of the Ripley series, is a mystery thriller, but it takes time to tell the story, so you’re not actually on the edge of your seat with this one.
Tom Ripley is sent to Italy to try to persuade a wayward Richard Greenleaf to return home to America. When in Italy, Ripley develops a taste for the lifestyle of Richard (Dickie). He’s desperate to hang on to this life and doesn’t stop at anything to keep his newfound freedom.
Ripley’s character is something to be mulled over. In many sources, he’s considered to be a sociopath, and he certainly displays traits that are related to these disorders. While Dickie and his close friend Marge live a very carefree life, Tom has struggled. Do people like Dickie appreciate enough the life they’ve been given?
Highsmith certainly brings Italy to life in this novel with her vivid description. However, I would have liked to have read a little more about Ripley’s reasoning behind his actions. As the noose began to tighten around him, I wish I could have gotten a bit more sense of urgency and danger.
It is an interesting story with interesting characters, but somehow, I felt it kept the reader at arm’s length, and I didn’t love it as much as I could have. Still, it is a solid read and a rare perspective.
Content Warnings
Minor: Chronic illness, Death, Rape, Toxic relationship, Violence, Blood, Murder, Alcohol, and Injury/Injury detail
nikwui's review
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
Content Warnings
Minor: Homophobia and Rape