When Daphne du Maurier published REBECCA in 1938, it must have been a moment that left all other living authors in awe. They might have immediately placed their fingers in their mouths and started sucking, as if in disbelief.

I know I would have.

Just think about it. If you were going to write a novel, why wouldn't you strive to create something like this? (Of course, you can't, because it's already been written). But even if this novel didn't exist in 2025, you'd still be drawn to its allure. It's that good.

Sob.

What strikes me as funny on my first encounter with REBECCA (having never read it before or seen any film adaptations) is that du Maurier gave it the title of the dead character, Rebecca. Yes, it holds great significance that the story is named after a deceased woman and that the next woman (Wifey #2) remains unnamed. However, I could argue that it might have been more fitting to call this one MANDERLEY.

In fact, this is a story about a mansion named Manderley, which is as idyllic as any property since Pemberley. And as much as I've always longed to live at Pemberley (with Mr. Darcy, of course), I have to admit that Manderley's beachfront location gives it the edge.

The lawns were black with people. The bursting stars shone on their upturned faces. Again and again the rockets sped into the air like arrows, and the sky became crimson and gold. Manderley stood out like an enchanted house, every window aflame, the grey walls coloured by the falling stars. A house bewitched, carved out of the dark woods.

But is the house truly bewitched, or is it the residents who are under a spell?

The house seems fine to me; it is, indeed, the true protagonist of this story. It's the people who live at Manderley who have a plethora of issues.

The owner, Max de Winter, is, as his name suggests, in the "height of winter." He's cold, bitter, and randomly kicks his dogs. He calls his new wife charming names like "little idiot."

His new wife, She Who Shall Forever Be Unnamed, is an unformed being, crippled by bouts of intense anxiety. She paces around in indecision and distress, saying things like, "You are my father and my brother and my son, All those things."

So he calls her "stupid child" and "little idiot," and she responds with, "be my daddy and my son," and later tells him she doesn't want to be his child anymore, she wants to be his Mother. I want to be your. . . Mother.

These two desperately need a good couples therapist. And believe me, all the outrageous misogynist stereotypes from the 1930s are present in this story (I'm just a little girl, daddy, can you dress me in knickers? Got a lolly for me, daddy, so I can imagine I'm sucking your hard candy? Seriously, I need to finish this 1930s project soon).

Then there's the batshit crazy housekeeper, Mrs. Danvers. I immediately pictured her looking like this:

Mrs. Danvers should have been fired as soon as Rebecca died. As soon as Rebecca died (before the story begins). But, of course, if that had happened, this novel wouldn't have been as delicious.

And it is delicious. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. I was so deeply immersed in the story that I read a significant portion of it while my daughter was at a tutoring center. At one point, her math tutor awkwardly tapped on my car window and asked if he could speak with me. As I stepped out of the car, he looked at me and said, "Are you okay? You seem lightheaded."

I was like, "Wha? No. No. I was at Manderley."

(This was a buddy read with the indomitable Bonnie G. We fussed and we gushed. We fussed and we gushed. It was a fantastic selection and a super fun time).

This story truly amazed me when I first read it as a naive and impressionable teen. There were so many hidden emotions of repressed passion and countless secrets. We all wholeheartedly supported Max and the second Mrs. De Winter. But what a complex and convoluted situation it was! My innocent sense of right and wrong was completely thrown off balance. I hardly knew what to make of it all, but I immediately rushed back to the library and borrowed all of DuMaurier's books. I craved more of this kind of thrilling and captivating melodrama!







Rebecca was Max De Winter's first wife. Interestingly, we never learn the name of his second wife, who serves as the narrator of the story. This thriller had a controversial plot twist that I won't disclose here, but it is now very well-known. I had the opportunity to watch the 1978 movie adaptation starring Jeremy Brett and Joanna David. I also watched the earlier movie version with Joan Fontaine and Laurence Olivier.







In fact, I really can't determine which one was better. As I mentioned earlier, I read this as a teenager and adored the drama and the larger-than-life characters. It's no surprise that many of her books and short stories have been adapted into films and stage productions. Her short story, The Birds, served as the basis for Hitchcock's movie of the same name, although he made significant changes to it.



I wholeheartedly recommend this character-driven thriller by one of my favorite authors! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

Rebecca is a clever and unromantic parody of Victorian romance. Firstly, it is a story about a place, and only then about the people who live there. The description of Manderley is vivid and enchanting. As the heroine arrives, she is in awe of its grace and beauty, just as she had imagined from the picture postcard long ago. It is a place of elegance and charm, with smooth grasslands, mossy lawns, terraces sloping to the gardens, and the gardens leading to the sea.

The heroine herself is a naïve and inexperienced girl, slaving in the role of a companion for an old, vulgar, and heartless hag. Her life is filled with menial tasks and discomfort, as she is forced to mix drinks for her employer's friends and endure their parrot chatter. She is a whipping-boy, blushing with embarrassment when her employer gets excited and behaves loudly in bed.

By chance, she meets an aristocratic widower, and after a short time together, he proposes to her. However, the sudden talk of marriage bewilders and even shocks her. It doesn't seem real to her, especially not like the romantic proposals she has read about in books. After the honeymoon, when she arrives at the fabulous Manderley, she finds herself immersed in a atmosphere of hopeless despondency. The spectre of the past looms large over everything, and she is constantly haunted by the memory of Rebecca, the previous wife of her husband.

Often, when we enter a new environment, we are vulnerable to the uncertainties and challenges that come our way. We may find ourselves in situations that we are not prepared for, and we may struggle to adapt. The story of Rebecca serves as a reminder of the importance of being strong and resilient in the face of change.

Still, it remains my favorite gothic novel of all time. There is a troubled love interest, which adds an air of mystery and complexity to the story. Then there is the unwelcoming housekeeper, who seems to hold many secrets. The house itself is haunted by the memories of its previous mistress, creating an eerie and atmospheric setting. And there is a young girl who is ill-equipped to handle everything that comes her way. All these elements combine to form a wildly mysterious and romantic story that is unforgettably and beautifully written. The author has masterfully crafted a tale that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, eager to discover what will happen next. It is a true classic of the gothic genre, and one that I will continue to cherish for years to come.

\\n  \\"It wouldn't make for sanity would it, living with the devil.\\"\\n
― Daphne du Maurier, Rebecca

From the very moment I embarked upon this mysterious story, I had the distinct sensation of being a mischievous houseguest who had stealthily entered a closed room to clandestinely peek at someone's diary. It was both wicked and forbidden, and yet, I simply could not tear myself away. Furtively glancing over my shoulder to ensure I hadn't been discovered, I became completely immersed in the beautiful prose. I found myself falling deeply in love with the widower Maxim de Winter and his young miss, the narrator of this sinfully delicious tale.

\\"I am glad it cannot happen twice, the fever of first love. For it is a fever, and a burden, too, whatever the poets may say.\\"

They met in Monte Carlo, the brooding Mr. de Winter, the master of Manderley, an English estate, and the young lady, a hired companion to Mrs. Van Hopper. It was a most unlikely pairing, with him in his forties and her having just reached the tender age of twenty-one. But when Maxim de Winter showed interest, our narrator was completely smitten. In a mere three weeks, it was all over and done with.

\\"Either you go to America with Mrs. Van Hopper or you come home to Manderley with me.\\"

\\"Do you mean you want a secretary or something?\\"

\\"No, I'm asking you to marry me, you little fool.\\"

Admittedly, it wasn't the proposal of her dreams, but it achieved its purpose, and they were married immediately. The stage was set for what seemed like a long and happy union.
What starry-eyed nonsense, you might exclaim. I was promised a thrill! Well, don't be too hasty to leave, my fellow bibliophiles, for within this fairytale lurks an evil that will voraciously consume the de Winter's peace with big, slurping bites, and her name is Rebecca.

\\"Rebecca, always Rebecca. Wherever I walked in Manderley, wherever I sat, even in my thoughts and in my dreams, I met Rebecca.\\"

Written in the first person, we are only privy to the narrator's limited perspective. Each time the new Mrs. de Winter encounters someone, we are given only small snippets of the past, and these tidbits of information weave a vile web in her mind that nearly drives both of us to the verge of insanity!

Rebecca is a haunting masterpiece, filled with enchanting gloominess. I would highly recommend it to anyone who relishes a tense Gothic thriller and delectable prose.

This book is specifically tailored for those girls who experience a sense of sadness when they have to leave a hotel room, simply because they develop an attachment to the place.

It is also for the girls who can deeply relate to the phrase "give me back my girlhood, it was mine first."

Moreover, it caters to the pathological people pleasers and those girls who have a tendency to draw hearts in the byline, always finding themselves taking up too much space or time.

Needless to say, I had an intense love for this book. What truly astounded me was that despite the fact that this book was written nearly a century ago, the main character's thoughts often seemed as if they were directly plucked from my own head. She is one of the most relatable protagonists I have ever come across, which in turn made me all the more sympathetic to everything that befell her.

Never in my life have I read a classic in one sitting as I did for this particular book. When I wasn't actively reading it, I was filled with excitement for the next opportunity to sit down and fully enjoy it. I find it difficult to pinpoint exactly what it was about this book that made it so addicting. The action doesn't really become very significant until the end, yet I was absolutely glued to the plot.

This is the kind of book that, upon finishing, I immediately flipped back to chapter one and started reading it all over again. I can clearly understand why this is a favorite among many people, as it has now firmly become one of mine as well. Even as I am writing this review, I am filled with the urge to start from the beginning and experience the entire story all over again.

I had been deliberately avoiding this book, in a way. I presumed that it was going to be a classic, tongue-in-cheek romance. However, in the case of "Rebecca," I was rather wrong.

This book has truly had a profound impact on me. It has caused me to lose sleep and consume more coffee than one should. But let me tell you, it has been SO worth it.

This book is a deliciously gothic style novel. I loved it even more because it is based around a huge gothic house and a place called Manderley. As I read, my mind ran wild imagining what all the rooms were like and how creepy it might feel actually being there. The quality and detail of the writing within this book is outstanding. It sent shivers down my spine and at times, I could hear my own heart thudding in my chest. That, for me, is a clear sign that it is going to be a five-star book.

I think all of the characters were interesting and surprising, in their own way. The actual development of these characters was truly masterful.

It was rather apparent from the start of the book that Mr De Winter seemed to speak down to every female he encountered. This bothered me, and I'm quick to pick up on things like that. But, despite that, the novel was still amazing. To be honest, I wish I could rewind time so I could experience this rich and breathtaking novel for the first time, once again.

English (Rebecca) / Italiano

«Last night I dreamt I went to Manderley again»

Manderley, an estate situated in southern England, is the absolute protagonist of this novel. It is owned by the wealthy widower Maxim De Winter and is renowned across England, especially due to his first wife, Rebecca, who is now deceased. During her married life, Rebecca transformed Manderly into a hub of social life and entertainment, a place that was constantly on everyone's lips.

However, now Rebecca is gone, having perished in a shipwreck. This tragic passing has elevated her to a celestial figure in the eyes of those who frequented Manderley. When Maxim de Winter decides to remarry, his new partner constantly struggles with the comparison to Rebecca. It is simply too much for the lady to bear. Rebecca was sublime, while she is a simple and naive girl. Significantly, the new bride has no name. In fact, in the novel, she is never mentioned by her given name, despite being the main character, highlighting the depersonalization of the new wife. And Maxim states late in the story:

«Rebecca won»

In one way or another, Rebecca always prevails.

Vote: 8

«Sognai l'altra notte che ritornavo a Manderley»

Manderley, a property located in the south of England, is the absolute protagonist of this novel. Owned by the rich widower Maxim De Winter, it is a place known throughout England, especially thanks to Rebecca, his first wife, now deceased. Yes, because Rebecca turned Manderly into a center of socializing and entertainment. A place on everyone's lips.

But Rebecca is no longer there, having disappeared in a shipwreck. This tragic passing has contributed to raising her to a celestial figure, unattainable in the eyes of the people who have visited Manderley. For this reason, when Maxim de Winter decides to get married again, his new partner constantly suffers from the comparison with Rebecca. And she can't handle it. Rebecca was sublime, while she is simple and naive. It is no coincidence that the new bride has no name, in the sense that she is literally never named by her baptismal name in the novel, despite being the main character, to emphasize her depersonalization. Maxim says in the anguished final lines:

«Rebecca ha vinto»

In one way or another, Rebecca always wins.

Voto: 8

Buddy Read with my lovely friend, Vickie

5 stars to Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca. I truly adored this book. It's a captivating masterpiece that I would rate 4.5 stars if not for a few minor details. However, here, it definitely deserves a full 5 stars!

The story follows the second wife of a wealthy widower. We never learn her name, which adds an air of mystery. She struggles to fit into her new family at Manderley, the grand estate where the book is set. The plot is filled with numerous twists and turns, a perfect blend of suspense and a touch of romance. It grabs your attention from the very beginning and takes you on a thrilling journey of intrigue. Just when you think you've solved the mystery, du Maurier surprises you in the best way possible. I would give anything to be a fly on the wall at Manderley, observing all the hidden expressions and conversations.

The strengths of this book are its mystery and intrigue, which keep you on the edge of your seat throughout. The character development is also excellent, making you feel deeply connected to the characters. However, there are a few weaknesses. Some small questions remain unanswered, which left me a bit unsatisfied. Also, I just wanted more of the story! I didn't want it to end.

In conclusion, I highly recommend reading this book. Don't just rely on the movie adaptation. You need to experience the story for yourself and form your own opinions about the characters. There was almost a Broadway show based on this book, but unfortunately, it didn't get funded. Maybe one day it will happen. For those new to me or my reviews, I'm a big reader, writer, and blogger. My book reviews first go on Goodreads and then on my WordPress blog at https://thisismytruthnow.com. You can also find TV & Film reviews, the 365 Daily Challenge, and lots of blogging about my travels. Check out my social media profiles for more details and leave a comment to let me know what you think. Thanks for reading!

Oh, how I wish I could turn back the clock and relive the past month! Then I could pick up Rebecca and experience this captivating novel anew, as if it were my very first encounter. In truth, this wasn't my initial foray into this classic gothic literature. However, I'm ashamed to admit that the years between my first reading and this recent one, along with what I affectionately call 'momnesia', made this reading feel like a brand new experience. And for that, I'm truly grateful, as I completely immersed myself in the beautiful prose of the incredibly talented Daphne du Maurier.

The unnamed narrator is a young, inexperienced, and insecure woman with little hope for the future – unless becoming a companion to the overbearing Mrs. Van Hopper could be considered a promising option! So when the handsome, mysterious, and wealthy Maxim de Winter shows interest and offers a more enticing alternative – that of being his wife – what's a girl to do but accept? After the honeymoon ends, the newlyweds return to Manderley, Max de Winter's estate. Manderley itself is a major character in this novel. It feels almost like a living, breathing entity, with its magnificent descriptions masterfully crafted. I could almost picture myself sitting beside Mrs. de Winter as she approaches Manderley for the first time.
The rhododendrons, red and abundant, are everywhere. Rebecca, the first Mrs. de Winter, haunts the second Mrs. de Winter's every step. She lingers in the morning-room, lurks in the gallery, and tarries in the cottage by the beach. But most importantly, Rebecca dwells in the minds of everyone in the West Country along the rugged coast of England. Max de Winter becomes a brooding and distant husband once back at Manderley, haunted by the memory of Rebecca. The new Mrs. de Winter is tormented by her own fantasies of this formidable adversary. Since the novel is cleverly told from the perspective of this naïve young woman, the reader becomes privy to the psychological turmoil she endures. She is also at the mercy of the criticism and malice of the sinister housekeeper, Mrs. Danvers, who worshiped Rebecca in life and continues to do so after her death. I absolutely loved to hate this dark and intimidating woman!
Every character in this book is skillfully drawn and comes to life on the pages. The tension builds steadily, and one can't help but become embroiled in the suspenseful buildup of events leading to the climax. I was transported to another time and place, completely mesmerized. I can't say much more without spoiling the story for those who haven't read this masterpiece yet. Just grab a copy soon and experience it for yourself – you won't be disappointed! This is truly one of the best books I've ever read and will definitely find a place on my special bookshelf at home.

Here is my heart...

Rebecca is my favorite book of all time - bar none. The opening line is famous, but I didn't know that the first time I read it (I was about 14). I just remember that the magic began with that first line: "Last night, I dreamt I went to Manderly again...." The girl is young, clumsy, and exquisitely sensitive. After her father's death, she is impoverished and alone. She is employed by a wealthy and boorish social climber, Mrs. Van Hopper, and makes her living as the older woman's companion.

Maxim de Winter, handsome, fabulously rich, and the owner of Manderly, one of the finest estates in England, crosses paths with the women in Monte Carlo. As the girl falls crazy in love with de Winter, revealing herself as the most flaming romantic in all of British literature, she sees him in a very special way. She imagines him belonging to a walled city of the fifteenth century, with narrow, cobbled streets and thin spires, where the inhabitants wore pointed shoes and worsted hose. His face is arresting, sensitive, and medieval in some strange inexplicable way, reminding her of a portrait seen in a gallery she had forgotten where, of a certain Gentleman Unknown.

However, I never saw him the way she did. Even as a teenager, I thought de Winter was a horse's ass and a male chauvinist pig. His proposal to the girl is so off-putting. He says things like "If you think I'm one of the people who try to be funny at breakfast, you're wrong. I'm invariably ill-tempered in the early morning. I repeat to you, the choice is open to you. Either you go to America with Mrs. Van Hopper or you come home to Manderly with me." And then, when she finally realizes he is proposing, he says, "So that's settled, isn't it? Instead of being companion to Mrs. Van Hopper you become mine, and your duties will be almost exactly the same. I also like new library books, and flowers in the drawing-room, and bezique after dinner. And someone to pour out my tea...and you must never let me run out of my particular brand of toothpaste." (Prick!)

The spirit of Rebecca herself - the first Mrs. de Winter - pervades the novel like a gathering storm. She is a painful presence for the young woman Maxim marries after Rebecca's death. Although du Maurier gave the second Mrs. de Winter an inner life of extraordinary richness and depth, the author did not give her a name. When I learned that she didn't have a name, I gave her mine, and she became me. I think she is simply every romantic woman who ever read this remarkable novel.

Rebecca, directed by Alfred Hitchcock, is also my favorite film. Joan Fontaine is brilliant as the second Mrs. de Winter, and Laurence Olivier is absolute perfection as Max. This film was released in 1940, so don't see it in a theatre filled with college students, because they will snicker in the wrong places and spoil the most poignant scenes for you.