A review by savvylit
The Stepford Wives by Ira Levin

dark mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

The Stepford Wives is a fast-paced thriller that I read in just one sitting. Prior to reading, I had already seen the 2004 film version featuring Nicole Kidman. If you've seen that film, then you probably feel like I do - the movie is silly and lackluster. Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised that Levin's original story is much more interesting and well-executed. And funny! Levin perfectly (and disturbingly) satirizes the type of men who think of their wives as property, as sex objects. The slow creep of realization that dawns on Joanna as she realizes what's really happening in Stepford is so skillfully portrayed. Even though I knew what was coming, I still found myself horrified and disgusted.

Overall, I'd highly recommend The Stepford Wives to anyone looking for a quick and unsettling read!
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