The gothic undertones and setting made the novel all the more intriguing.Ĭonsidering that the story is told from Phillip’s POV, and he isn’t the most reliable character, I was never really sure what the ending would look like. The pace of the novel is relatively on the slower side, and I liked it that way. Their tendency to label the other sex paints them in a poor light, even weakening their character when, having made the acquaintance of Rachel, their thoughts suddenly take a 180-degree turn. I love how clever the author has been in her use of stereotypes to challenge the flawed logic that these notions are based on.įor instance, the Ashleys and most of the staff in their household don’t have high regard for women. Maurier’s writing is indicative of the biases that govern norms and beliefs in society. But it’s interesting to observe how his actions and predicament stem from the lack of a parent figure in his life and the ability to develop a strong emotional intelligence. Sure, you’ll occasionally want to knock some sense into Phillip. I have come to enjoy reading stories about characters who are morally grey in their own right and don’t feel pressured to keep up appearances. On the one hand, you have an impulsive (almost bratty) male protagonist, who pays little heed to the consequences of his actions on the other, there’s the female lead, whose true nature remains as elusive as the mystery surrounding Ambrose’s illness.įor me, it is this very aspect of the book that kept me engrossed throughout.

Author of my cousin rachel