A review by nunchikoi
The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith

dark funny tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Super compelling page-turner! This was the first novel in my Modern Novels class, and what a great start: Highsmith does not waste a word, truly. Her writing drips in excess, but it's appropriate for a story about class and wealth. We are treated with lavish descriptions of Europe and its culture, art, and architecture, while a dark, quick-footed darkness stalks its streets. 

Ripley was not super likeable to me, but I like watching reading as he waxed and waned from pathetic to a predator. This is a really well-crafted story that is bittersweet for both readers who cheer him on, or pray for his downfall.
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