Manderley...

It looms on the hill, enshrouded in a mist, an otherworldly mansion. Dark and threatening, it seems unfathomable and unreachable, a thing that defies existence, only glimpsed through the haze of a dream or a mirage that will fade into the night and vanish into nothingness. It is a nightmarish, chilling legend that persists, yet its reality remains undiscovered, for a myth is filled with questions and no answers.

Maximilian (Maxim) de Winter, a 42-year-old English widower, is a sad soul. He leads an aimless life, traveling in a futile attempt to forget, but it eludes him. Just before World War II, he stays in a Monte Carlo hotel that has seen better days. His face betrays the tragic situation he must confront.

A young lady, half his age, works for the implacable and unfeeling American Mrs. Van Hopper. She is a paid companion, servant, and punching bag. These two souls, Max and the girl, both in need of comfort, happiness, and yes, love, find each other in this brutal world, and hope dawns.

They have a quick marriage (much to Mrs. Van Hopper's amazement), a short honeymoon in Venice, and then return to their native England after a few weeks. They settle on the wild coast of Cornwall in the southwest of the country, far from the busy, noisy, and polluted London. It is a quiet, hidden place, clean and peaceful, where nothing seems to happen.

Enormous Manderley, centuries old, has been the home of the de Winter family for generations. It is surrounded by thick, impenetrable woods, exotic flowers, exquisite butterflies fluttering in the air, beautiful green lawns, colorful birds singing sweetly, and the fragrant winds blowing from the nearby sea. Fishing boats dot the horizon.

However, Mrs. Danvers, the evil-looking housekeeper known as the Keeper of the Flame, takes an immediate dislike to the second Mrs. de Winter. How can such a timid, uneducated, and unlovely girl replace Rebecca? The bold, intelligent, and beautiful Rebecca was the prettiest woman in the area and loved by all.

There are disturbing secrets lurking deep within Manderley. The bride often loses her way in the mansion, and the servants and friends of Maxim remain tight-lipped about them. Maxim frequently withdraws into himself. What is he thinking about? Rebecca? How can the new, awkward bride compete with a phantom who seems to have no weaknesses?

Beatrice, Maxim's talkative sister, knows things but refuses to share them with the second Mrs. de Winter. Jack Favell, Rebecca's first cousin, visits the mansion without her knowledge. There is something she doesn't like about him. He is a drunkard, a daring playboy, and an incessant flirt with a mysterious connection to Rebecca. Maxim hates him (but why?) and scolds Mrs. Danvers, his friend, for receiving him at Manderley.

One day, while walking on the pebble beach below the house with her only friend, the constantly amusing and faithful family dog Jasper, the bride follows him to the tiny harbor where Rebecca's small boat was last anchored before being lost at sea in an "accident." Ben, a retarded man from the neighborhood, is also there, speaking gibberish. But is it really gibberish, or are more dark secrets being divulged?

The bride then sees a cottage falling into ruin that Maxim avoids. The curious girl enters and finds many of Rebecca's things lying around. These objects serve as constant reminders that she will never be the real Mrs. de Winter, who still, from the grave, seems to dominate the premises.

I named my car after this book because being an English major was very psychologically healthy for me.

Rebecca is a truly spellbinding and intensely claustrophobic mystery. It follows a woman who is seduced by the handsome widower, Maxim de Winter, as she tries to understand the presence of his late wife, Rebecca.

This book is so creepy and yet so enthralling. I absolutely adore it. It's difficult to clearly express exactly what makes it so compelling without spoiling the whole thing, but I'll give it a try.

Rebecca, to everyone in the novel, not just the narrator, becomes a physical presence. Rebecca's ghost is more of a person than our narrator to both those around her, especially Mrs. Danvers, and to herself. She imagines Rebecca as herself when she looks in mirrors, takes on her form to their husband, and is subsumed by her in every moment. We ourselves find it hard to remember the narrator's presence as anything more than an afterthought. The narrator serves as a stand-in for the memory of Rebecca to everyone around her. The narrator lacks a name, while Rebecca does not.

The memory of Rebecca becomes a threat, closing in around the narrator, compacting her, leaving her feeling the need to 'escape' to other parts of the house – but also leaving her enthralled. In her own way, she's been seduced by the memory of the woman she replaced.

To her new husband Maxim, meanwhile, the memory of Rebecca is something to be hidden and ignored. Maxim explicitly counters the narrator's framing of memory, even as the narrator grows more fascinated.

SPOILERS: I think being critical of the choice to make the narrator sympathetic to Maxim's killing of Rebecca misses the point. The narrator is not meant to be on the moral high ground here, nor is Maxim, nor is Rebecca; they are three flawed people making each other worse. I find her reaction to the murder reveal, and indeed the entire second half of the book, so interesting. Over time, the narrator becomes closer and closer to becoming Rebecca, dreaming of seeing herself as Rebecca in the mirror. Yes, the narrator is nothing because ultimately Rebecca drowns out everything. Even in trying to compete and win over Rebecca, the narrator has lost from the start.

The gender politics of this are even more fascinating. Maxim, who the narrator has previously seen as the caretaker, suddenly becomes a scared dog that the narrator can only try to protect. When she has previously framed herself as a dog to him, she now describes him as a dog to her. In revealing his weakness to his wife, he has allowed himself to become the weaker party again.

I think this novel constantly and strongly begs the question of who, exactly, is winning over Maxim, Mrs. Danvers, and the outside world – the narrator, or Rebecca? To me, the answer is this:

SPOILERS: Rebecca will always win because the narrator and Maxim will never be able to escape her – and will never be able to escape becoming her. Rebecca had cancer of the womb, meaning she couldn't reproduce futurity; instead, she reproduces futurity by converting the narrator into someone just as duplicitous as she. Even from beyond the grave, she wins by burning the mansion and taking the narrator as a second self. She has left behind a husband turned killer and his new wife turned into her progeny. Maxim has killed her and made himself more trapped than ever.

Anyway. No one worry about my car being named after the titular character. I promise my car is kinder than this book will be to you. In a good way.

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I struggled my way through the first half of this book.

Despite really enjoying the writing style, it felt like nothing of significance occurred in the first half.

We were only provided with these extremely vague details to base our understanding on.

This is likely the reason why I experienced such a powerful impact with the major revelations in the later half.

I'll confess that I'm uncertain if the payoff was truly worth it for me.

However, I still relished different aspects of the story nonetheless.

I'm eagerly anticipating watching the Netflix adaptation soon.

In my opinion, this story might be better suited for the film medium.

(Don't despise me for saying that XD)

The first 75% of this book would have been fortunate to receive 2 stars. It progressed at an extremely sluggish pace, with far less suspense and tension than what I had anticipated. The protagonist was frustratingly weak and pitiful, and I struggled to cheer for her.

However, the last quarter and the ending finally improved significantly, and I rather enjoyed it. It would deserve 4 stars. The slow start made it a bit of a chore to get through the initial part, but the redeeming quality of the final section salvaged the overall reading experience. Despite the flaws in the beginning, the book managed to turn things around and offer an engaging conclusion.

As far as Spooky Scary Suspense books go, this one might rate a B-.

However, when it comes to HGTV novelizations, it's the best in the business.

What's that glowing on the horizon? Oh, it's the pitchfork-toting angry mob ready to burn me at the stake for comparing this masterpiece of fiction to a television channel about real estate agents dealing with divorcing couples who can't understand money and residence acquisition.

What I'm trying to say is that for me, this story isn't overly action-packed or exciting. But it does have one of the best settings of all time, along with gorgeous writing.

It's an acceptable compromise.

In case you've been living under a rock since August 1938 or have deliberately avoided all mentions of literary classics and Alfred Hitchcock's filmography, here's a brief synopsis of this book.

Rebecca follows our nameless narrator, a poor girl who goes from being a lady-in-waiting (or something similar) to a very unpleasant woman to becoming the second wife of a rich man, Maxim de Winter, who lives in the wonderful Manderley in England.

It sounds like a jackpot, right? But there's a catch. Maxim's first wife, Rebecca, is mysteriously dead, and everyone says she was way better than our narrator. Plus, the creepy housekeeper, Mrs. Danvers, is obsessed with Rebecca.

DUN DUN DUN.

I won't lie, Mrs. Danvers did creep me out a few times. While I found some minor plot points predictable, some of the bigger ones still surprised me. The romance was meh for me, and it took me a while to get into the story (more than half the book), but it wasn't a total wash.

And that's before considering how beautifully written, immersive, and gorgeously described it is. Manderley is like a character itself, and I felt its loss deeply. I also liked our little nameless narrator, even though she drove me crazy with secondhand embarrassment on every other page.

Bottom line: This book is legendary for a reason. (Pretend my opinion matters. As if this isn't already firmly established as one of the great works of all time.)

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pre-review

If you'll excuse me, I'll be laying down in a dark room for the next 4 - 6 business days.

Review to come / 4 stars

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currently-reading updates

I am ready to be SPOOKED. I am ready to be SHOCKED. I am ready to be DAZZLED by BEAUTIFUL LANGUAGE.

Incredible.

If you are under the misapprehension that this is some kind of rubbishy historical romance novel, let me tell you something. You are mistaken, just as I was. I initially imagined it to be a snobbier version of Danielle Steel's works or a story with a clogs-and-shawls style, perhaps with a touch of added cash. But I say again: I was dead wrong.

This book is disturbing and darkly gothic. It has more shocks than even the most twisty modern psychological thriller. All of these are deftly revealed by a masterful hand. It is a story dominated by imagination and memory, an exploration of the hold the past can have over the present, whether real or otherwise. The language is truly mesmerising. There is a preciseness to it, and the layered detail reveals a whole world with stunning intensity. Rarely have I listened to a book that made me see with such clarity the places and people described within. Of course, Anna Massey is an excellent narrator, adding that extra level of realism in tone and rhythm that I might not have achieved from the page. But credit must also go to the creator. This is a book with such presence, such incredible vibrancy that I will never forget it.

It is best to approach this book knowing nothing. When you find yourself at Manderley, you will soon understand why it is a place to which our narrator returns in her dreams.

**"Rebecca": A Captivating Tale of Mystery and Intrigue**

When a novel transforms into a haunt that lingers in your mind long after... When a sudden death of an acquaintance occurs... When you visit a farm and it happens to be in England... When you see a glamorous and happy couple that arouses everyone's envy.

...It is "Rebecca" - the only novel that you wish you had written!

There is a part of it that was written by Daphne du Maurier in Alexandria during her stay there.

"Rebecca" is about oppression in various forms ⚫ Oppression of women by men... Oppression of women by women... Oppression of a person by oneself when you reach the conclusion that by committing suicide, you will be serving everyone around you, thus ridding them of your weakness, your folly, and your lack of resourcefulness.

"Last night I dreamt of Manderley... again." Thus begins this classic with three female protagonists who are in conflict in every way. The first is Rebecca, who never appears at all!! The novel starts after her death, yet she is the absent-present with distinction, belonging to that type that缠绕s necks wherever she stops.

The second is the second wife, whom Daphne did not give a name to in a very intelligent gesture to highlight her insignificance and her lack of self-confidence.

The third is the housekeeper of the mansion: Mrs. Danvers, who thrives in a world of horror with her mischievous ways and graduates as an independent teacher in the faculties of literature

Rebecca is truly a remarkable piece of literature.

It may not always be the most thrilling read, but for reasons that are deeply personal and difficult to put into words, it has an incredibly powerful impact.

At the risk of overpraising, it is on par with the works of Jane Austen and George Eliot.

The story takes unexpected twists and turns, especially towards the end, and it all comes together in a beautiful and satisfying manner.

The main showdown between Mrs. de Winter and Mrs. Danvers is emotionally overwhelming.

Rebecca is a masterpiece that combines lovely sentiments with exquisite writing.

It has the ability to make the most ordinary events seem essential.

Unlike other books where you're constantly checking the progress, in Rebecca, you might find yourself content to stay on the same page for an hour, savoring every word.

It's a wonderful experience that I can't imagine missing.

If you've ever lost someone, felt strong emotions, or loved deeply, I highly recommend reading this book.

Don't dismiss it as just another soppy romance or classic literature.

It has a sinister, dark, and psychological side that makes it truly unique.

There's an underlying dualism in the story that becomes apparent as you read.

It touches on themes such as transgender, anti-subservience, and split personality, which are still relevant today.

The main character, referred to only as Mrs. de Winter, feels insignificant and controlled, while the dead wife, Rebecca, still looms large over the house.

Everyone in the story behaves in a peculiar way, and there's a big secret that keeps you guessing until the end.

Is it a case of mental illness or a hidden devil-worshipping cult? You'll have to read Rebecca to find out.

Despite its old-fashioned charm, it's a great story that will tug at your heartstrings.

"Last night I dreamt I went to Manderley again." This iconic line immediately draws us into the captivating world of Daphne du Maurier's "Rebecca." It belongs among the great literary openings, just like "Call me Ishmael." Even those who haven't read the book or seen Hitchcock's film may recognize the name Manderley. Du Maurier's inspiration for this fictional estate was a place called Menabilly, and we're grateful she changed the name. Manderley has a certain allure, while Menabilly just doesn't have the same charm.

The story follows a young and impressionable 21-year-old narrator who is a companion to the odious Mrs. Van Hoppers. In Monte Carlo, when Mrs. Van Hoppers falls ill, the narrator meets the widower Maximilian de Winter. He is famous, but his house, Manderley, is even more so. With its grand parties, beautiful landscaping, and magnificent architecture, Manderley is the envy of all.
After a whirlwind romance, the dashing de Winter marries the narrator, who becomes Mrs. de Winter. However, she soon realizes that she is in over her head. She is too shy, too young, and too trusting, and she can't compete with the memory of the legendary Rebecca de Winter. Waiting for her at Manderley is Mrs. Danvers, Rebecca's loyal fan and torchbearer. Mrs. Danvers makes it clear that she has no intention of accepting the new Mrs. de Winter.
As the story unfolds, we see Mrs. de Winter gain confidence and begin to grow into her role. But just as things start to look up, everything goes wrong. Du Maurier expertly builds tension, hinting at something sinister lurking within the walls of Manderley. The character studies in this book are masterful, from the spiteful Mrs. Danvers to the tortured Maximilian de Winter. The supporting cast also adds depth and color to the story.
"Rebecca" is a classic of gothic romance, filled with mystery, passion, and intrigue. It is a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat, even if you've seen the movie. If you're a fan of this genre, then "Rebecca" is a must-read. It's a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.

”Last night I dreamt I went to Manderley again\\".

What the hell did I just read?

This book, which is supposed to be a classic mystery/thriller, had its moments. The plot was decent enough to keep me engaged. However, when it came to the romance aspect, it was a complete failure. The character of Max was just awful. He treated the unnamed heroine like a child, which was really off-putting. He was supposed to be a romantic leading man, but I just couldn't see it. I actually thought the big twist would be that she ended up with Frank, the nice guy who she could talk to. But no, she ended up with Max.

Another problem I had was the way the book was written. It seemed very much a product of its times. The idea that a woman should be groomed into a simpering idiot who can't wait to apologize for upsetting her husband is just not acceptable in today's society. And the fact that the unnamed new wife was a plain Jane and the evil ex-wife was a hot temptress didn't sit well with me either.

Overall, I did like the way the truth was revealed about Rebecca and her true nature. That was well done. But the relationship between Max and the heroine was just not believable or likable. I would not recommend this book to anyone looking for a good romance.

Conclusion
In conclusion, while "Rebecca" had some redeeming qualities in terms of its mystery and plot, it failed miserably in the romance department. The characters were not likable, and the message it sent about relationships was outdated and offensive. I would not recommend this book to anyone looking for a good romance or a modern take on a classic.

Rebecca is a captivating work of Gothic suspense. Its prose is mesmerizing, making it an enthralling and evocative read. The novel's opening lines and key scenes may seem familiar, perhaps due to Hitchcock's film or a hilarious sketch. However, Rebecca offers a more self-aware take on tired dynamics and scenarios, rather than relying solely on its precursors like Bluebeard and Jane Eyre.

The characters have qualities that both recall and reflect their own period. The narrator's namelessness is effective, suggesting the story is about Rebecca and reinforcing the narrator's sense of inadequacy and anxiety. Daphne du Maurier untangles the mystery at the heart of the novel in a slow yet compelling way, maintaining suspense even after the revelation.
The narrative's tension arises from ordinary moments, as the narrator struggles with the conventions of the British upper class and her role as Manderley mistress. Her namelessness emphasizes her disempowerment, and her vulnerability to Mrs. Danvers leads to her conviction of inferiority.
Despite the familiar premise, the novel is enjoyable, with du Maurier's sensual prose adding to its allure. The narrator's obsession and jealousy towards Rebecca, as well as her hatred, are palpable. The love story within Rebecca lacks romance, and the second Mrs de Winter is plagued by jealousy and paranoia. The landscape, especially Manderley, plays a central role, mirroring the narrator's state of mind and capturing a sense of the sublime.
This beautifully written novel conveys the experience of being young and inexperienced with perfect clarity, amidst love, jealousy, and feminine ideals.

★★★★✰ 4 stars

Rebecca is a work that continues to engage readers with its Gothic elements and psychological depth.

Daphne du Maurier's classic novel "Rebecca" is an exquisitely haunting piece of writing. It has the power to make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up, compelling you to snuggle up on the couch with a blanket on a wet Saturday afternoon. Once you start reading, you'll be completely indulged in a world of suspense and mystery, forgetting all the other countless things you should be doing.

I read this novel approximately 10 years ago, and recently, I picked it up again for a local book club read. I must admit that I couldn't recall anything from the first time I read it, which gave me the opportunity to have the entire experience anew.

I fell in love with this novel all over again. The mystery, the suspense, the beautifully developed characters, and the hauntingly beautiful descriptive writing all combined to create a truly captivating story. It's one of those rare books where the author manages to paint every character and every situation with such clarity in your mind. I adored the twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.

De Maurier's greatest achievement in this book has to be the development of Rebecca. Although she is dead at the beginning of the novel, as the story unfolds, Rebecca comes alive in the minds of the readers and the other characters. We must remember that we are only judging her based on what others say about her. I firmly believe that this is a character who will stay with the reader long after they've finished reading this book.

In conclusion, what more can I say? This is a 5-star read for me all the way. It's a literary masterpiece that will continue to enthrall readers for generations to come.