Gone Girl: Book Review

This fantastic novel was published in 2012 by Gillian Flynn. In the following lines, I will dissect the story to reveal its treasures and its warts. Needless to say that there are **spoilers** ahead (Well, I said it anyway.)

• First Line: The first line is intriguing and compels the reader to go on. It also foreshadows the focus of the novel, which is Amy’s plan and motivation which tend to be obscure.

• Book Title: The title does not hold the brilliance and the complexity of this novel. Gone Girl seems a little pale on the cover of a book that takes its audience on a roller coaster.

• Best Aspect: The plot twist.

While reading part 1, I attributed the adjective “good” to qualify the book. However, when the twist was revealed, I gave the book a much higher rating.

• Theme(s):

-Gender role

-Marriage

-Family Dynamics

-Parenthood

• Not-so-Great Aspect: The ending.

The ending seems average when compared to the beginning and the novel as a whole. It is original and stays true to Amy’s character, but it could have been worded to sound more riveting.

• Most Relatable Character: Amy Dunne.

Obviously, her brain doesn't work like anybody else's, but both versions of her narration are thorough, intimate, and vulnerable.

• Most Likeable Character: Amy Dunne.

She is not a role model yet her redeemable traits, such as patience and creativity, are admirable. Also, she leads the thrill that looms over the novel.

• Cliché: None.

It contains cliché concepts, such as gender stereotypes, that are used to reinforce the story's originality.

• Least Interesting Part: The initial search for Amy.

When Nick wasn’t officially a suspect, his nonchalance in the search for Amy made this part a little bland.

• Most Painful Scene: Go’s anguish when Nick told her that he’d decided to stay with Amy despite everything.

• WOW moment: The major plot twist. The story takes a new direction, and many mixed emotions are sent toward Amy.

Extras

• Playlist: - Deadly Romance Matthew Llewellin

- Secret by The Piercs

- Love the Way You Lie- Rihanna

• Favorite Quote: Love should require both partners to be their very best at all times. Unconditional love is an undisciplined love, and we all have seen, undisciplined love is disastrous.

• Lesson: We must try our best to heal from our childhood wounds.

• Question for Author: How did you find the inspiration for a character like Amy?

• General Rating: Underrated

The novel has an average rating of ⅘ and I believe it deserves a higher rating.

• My rating: 4 out of 4. I would barely change a thing.