Stephen King calls Ira Levin “the Swiss watchmaker of suspense novels”, and with good reason.

In all four Levin novels I’ve read, he has done an incredible job ratcheting up the tension as the story builds. But “A Kiss Before Dying” is the first Levin novel where I didn’t know the twist going in, which made it even more gripping.

Written and set in the 1950s, “A Kiss Before Dying” is about a handsome and charming war vet. He has a plan to ensure his financial future. However, his plan hits a snag when his wealthy girlfriend becomes pregnant. As a result, he forms a different kind of plan. This new plan is to rid himself of said girlfriend without threatening his future prospects. In some novels, that plan would form the basis of the narrative. But Levin uses it as a jumping off point for a story that is equal parts mystery and thriller.

What really sets “A Kiss Before Dying” apart is a plot twist that comes about a third of the way into the book. I can’t say anything more without spoiling it. But it caught me completely off guard and set up the rest of the book brilliantly.

The novel isn’t perfect. At times the writing feels a bit clunky, and characters make some pretty stupid choices. But overall, it’s a really compelling story filled with suspense that kept me hooked until the final page. It’s a great example of Levin’s skill in creating a thrilling and engaging read.

I've only read "Rosemary's Baby" from this author before, and it had a similar effect on me, making me feel unsettled. It was through the psychology of the story that this feeling emerged. It wasn't necessarily the specific content and crimes that were so disturbing, but rather the way Ira Levin crafted the narrative, which seemed to make it crawl under my skin. Reading from the perspective of the main character, who was also the murderer, was truly unsettling. However, despite this unease, I'm extremely tempted to read more of this author's work. It was definitely a read that was difficult to put down.

I find Levin's ability to create such a sense of psychological unease truly remarkable. His writing style draws the reader in and makes them feel as if they are part of the story, experiencing all the emotions and tensions firsthand. I'm curious to see what other masterpieces he has in store and how he will continue to explore the darker aspects of the human psyche in his other works.

I can't wait to pick up another book by Ira Levin and see where his storytelling takes me next. I'm sure it will be another unforgettable reading experience that will leave me both unsettled and eager for more.

Those of you who have been following my reviewing adventures for a while might have noticed a downward rating trend when it comes to Ira Levin's work.

Rosemary's Baby, which I read in 2011, received a 5-star rating. The Stepford Wives, read in 2013, got a 4-star rating. And Sliver, read in 2015, was a mere 1 star.

Thankfully, now I can say that the trend is back on the upswing! To be honest, it couldn't have gone any lower after Sliver, which was truly terrible. It would have been extremely hard to get worse than that.

I was pleasantly surprised to find that I enjoyed this book as much as I did. I picked it up on Audible in 2014 (the year before the awful Sliver), but never got around to reading it. After reading Sliver, I was actually a bit afraid that the magic of Ira Levin had worn off for me and there was no going back.

This book wasn't anywhere near the level of Rosemary's Baby, but it was still pretty good, considering it was Levin's debut novel. There was a twist in the middle that really caught me off guard. I had no idea it was coming and it was probably one of the best twists I've seen in a long time.

Some of the early 50s attitudes toward women in the book came across as frustratingly sexist. However, it was a different time back then. To be fair, there were also moments of female empowerment, although they weren't crucial to the story. And the outcomes usually favored or focused on men.

Overall, I liked this book enough to think that maybe the rest of Levin's work isn't a complete loss for me after Sliver. But I don't have too much more to say. It is a bit dated, but in a way that makes it seem like it has aged well rather than just being old and sad.

One thing to note about the audiobook is that I'm not a fan of readers who try too hard to "do the voices". This reader did that for one of the characters, and it was really distracting and annoying, even though the voice wasn't overly caricatured. There's a character who is a DJ on the local college radio station and is described as having a smooth, announcer-type voice. That's fine for a DJ, but he's also a college kid, so he shouldn't sound like a modern-day George Takei, which is exactly what he sounded like to me. It was quite annoying.

Otherwise, I have no complaints about the audio or the book itself. It was pretty solidly good.

Ira Levin is widely renowned as a writer, with his novels being adapted into extremely successful movies. These include A Kiss Before Dying, Rosemary’s Baby, The Boys From Brazil, and The Stepford Wives.

A Kiss Before Dying first made its appearance on the silver screen in 1956, starring Robert Wagner, Joanne Woodward, and Mary Astor. It was then remade in 1991, featuring Matt Dillon, Sean Young, and Diane Ladd.

However, this is the original book, which preceded all of the movies. What's truly astonishing about it is that it was Levin's very first novel, published when he was just 23 years old. Otto Penzler, in his introduction to the book, is in awe of the genius demonstrated by this early success, comparing it to Bobby Fischer's achievements in chess.

The book is divided into three parts, corresponding to the three sisters: Dorothy, Ellen, and Marion Kingship.

A Kiss Before Dying tells the story of a young man from a poor family in rural Massachusetts, a fair-haired boy who charms everyone he encounters. The narrative is presented in a matter-of-fact manner as he,看似外表是个正常的家伙，却一步步地策划着他那残暴的行径。令人震惊的是，他竟然成功地实施了完美犯罪，留下的证据如此之少，以至于他永远不会被起诉。没有人，尤其是当局，可能会怀疑这个优秀的年轻人会有能力做出如此可怕的事情。这本书的伟大之处在于，它描绘了一个迷人、聪明的男人，没有人可能怀疑他是一个会不择手段实现自己愿望的杀人狂和反社会人格者。故事的讲述方式和莱文慢慢带着读者踏上这趟令人毛骨悚然的旅程的方式都令人难以忘怀。强烈推荐这本书。

This novel was first published in 1953 and has aged very well.

71 years later, I read it and couldn't put it down, with the frenzy of reaching the end.

It's true that I had imagined a couple of plot twists, but one must consider that in these decades, avalanches of mystery novels, films, and TV series have been produced, and after a while of enjoying the genre, one tends to anticipate some mechanisms. In any case, imagining what would happen shortly did not take away from the pleasure of reading.

It was really enjoyable.

I had never read Levin before, and now I would like to catch up on his other works.

I'm eager to explore more of his literary creations and see what other精彩 stories and characters he has in store for readers.

Perhaps his other novels will offer different perspectives and themes, but I'm sure they will all share the same charm and quality that made this one so engaging.

I look forward to delving into Levin's world and experiencing the magic of his writing once again.

So many times when I am reading or viewing a murder/mystery, I find myself thinking, "How could you be so careless?"

However, that is not the case here. He is a natural born killer who possesses one remarkable virtue - patience.

This is a book with a somewhat predictable plot, yet it is truly chilling to be privy to his extremely precise and well thought out murder scheme. The author has done a great job of writing this story, adding a few twists and turns that will leave you with mouth opening chills. Overall, I would rate this book four stars for its excellent writing and ability to keep the reader on the edge of their seat.

Despite the predictability of the plot, the details and the way the story unfolds make it a captivating read. It makes you wonder about the mind of a killer and how they are able to plan and execute such heinous acts with such precision.

If you are a fan of murder/mystery novels, this one is definitely worth checking out.

I'm going to mention that when you read this, you will undoubtedly (well, unless you've just started reading books or watching movies and TV... or I suppose have been in a long coma) have come across the idea, the plot, and even the characters before. It would not be fair to hold that against the book, however, because the book was written in 1953 and probably originated many of what are now stereotypical ingredients in some thrillers.

If you can "let the book" or if you really aren't familiar with books, movies, TV programs, etc. similar to this one, the book will keep you on the edge of your seat with an odd sense of suspense mixed with that terrible certainty of impending doom. I must say that while I pretty much saw it all coming (again, not the book's fault as it has been copied over and over), it is still obvious that this was masterfully written.

I read one reviewer who said he couldn't help but sort of like our psychopathic (or possibly sociopathic) protagonist. I never got there. I did "sort of" start to see inside his head and his life. Levin, while not actually trying to explain Bud's mind (and emotions), did give us a little insight at least into his background and where he came from. Maybe some insight into what Ira Levin thinks. Psychopathy and sociopathy are things I've wondered about before. Why do some people completely lack empathy? Why do some have almost no emotion, fear, or caring? Why do some see other people as only "things" to be used and manipulated?

I don't know, but their existence is in fact horrifying.

The (almost inevitable) climatic conclusion and Bud's circular experience are well handled and more realistic than idealized, softened, or explained. It simply "is". Like life.

I can recommend this one.

Yes! Perfect anti-reading slump material.

I was pleasantly surprised by this sophisticated, coherent, unnerving thriller. It has all the elements that make a great mystery novel. The plot is full of twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. The characters are well-developed and complex, making it easy to become invested in their fates. The writing is smooth and engaging, drawing you into the story and making you feel as if you are right there with the characters.

For fans of Patricia Highsmith, Daphne du Maurier, Gillian Flynn and A Ladder to the Sky by John Boyne, this book is a must-read. It has the same level of psychological depth and suspense as their works, and will surely satisfy your craving for a good thriller. Whether you are looking for a quick read to pass the time or a more substantial novel to sink your teeth into, this book has something for everyone. So don't hesitate, pick up this book and prepare to be thrilled.

This is truly an outstanding example of a flawless noir novel, characterized by its fast-paced excellence. I have been a dedicated fan of Levin ever since I read Rosemary's Baby during my high school days. Since then, I have delved into most of his other remarkable fictional works, including The Boys from Brazil, The Stepford Wives, and This Perfect Day. All of these novels were of excellent quality.

A Kiss Before Dying was penned earlier in Levin's career, way back in 1953, in an era when girls were far more naive and life held less value. The story revolves around a returned WWII veteran who sets his sights on a young woman named Dorrie. Her father is wealthy and the head of a large copper conglomerate. However, when Dorrie becomes pregnant, the man realizes his opportunities for amassing wealth are slipping away as her father is extremely strict and likely won't support her after an illegitimate pregnancy. So, what actions does he take? Well, I don't wish to disclose too much, but Dorrie also has two sisters in case the initial attempt fails!

This novel has been adapted into two movie versions. The first was made in 1956 and stars Robert Wagner, while the second in 1991 features Matt Dillon and Sean Young. I watched the 1991 version a few years ago and recall enjoying it. Nevertheless, the book truly surpasses the movie and I would highly recommend it.

I simply could not put this book down.

The villain in it was a complete and utter psychopath, which made the story all the more intense and captivating.

However, my gripe is that the female characters were rather ditzy and fawning. But then again, I have to take into account that sexism was at its peak form in the 1950s when this was written.

Despite that, the pacing of the story was immaculate. It kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end.

If you're into smart thrillers that keep you guessing and engaged, then this one is definitely worth a read.

You won't be disappointed.

Thoughts soon come to our minds, like a flurry of snowflakes gently falling. They can be fleeting, yet have the power to shape our actions and decisions.

Sometimes, thoughts are clear and concise, guiding us towards a specific goal. At other times, they may be jumbled and confused, leaving us feeling lost and unsure.

We should pay attention to our thoughts, for they can reveal our deepest desires and fears. By understanding our thoughts, we can better understand ourselves and make more informed choices.

Thoughts can also be a source of inspiration. When we allow our minds to wander and explore new ideas, we may discover something truly remarkable.

In conclusion, thoughts are an essential part of our lives. They have the potential to bring about great change and growth. Let us embrace our thoughts and use them to create a better future for ourselves and those around us.

A KISS BEFORE DYING is an Edgar Award Winning classic mystery. Arguably, it marks the beginning of the modern psychological mystery thriller.

It is a classic tale revolving around murder for money. However, it is the brazenness of the criminal that truly shocks.

A young and handsome college student meets a beautiful young coed. They plan to marry, yet for all the wrong reasons. Our so-called handsome hero is far from being a hero. We are privy to all of his thoughts as he meticulously plans out his "wonderful" life, which he believes requires copious amounts of money to be complete. Coming from a very poor background, he deems there is no better way to utilize his brains and good looks than to find the perfect rich wife. But when complications arise, perhaps she needs to die. And maybe this occurs one too many times!!

The build-up of the plot through the killer's mind is exquisitely done in this book. His "outrageous" reasoning is followed through from start to finish in a book that constantly compels the reader to warn the characters of the impending danger throughout the story. Suspense is constructed to a thrilling point more than once in this masterful psychological suspense. Many of Ira Levin's books were adapted into movies, yet the book never reads like a movie script. It is a must-read for anyone contemplating writing psychological suspense.