After Rebekah

The Winters by Lisa Gabriele – what a fabulous, nail biting, edge of your seat contemporary psychological thriller. I just could not put it down. I read with heart racing as the book sped to its conclusion.

Anyone familiar with Daphne Du Maurier’s Rebecca has just got to read this modern version, set in America. Anyone who hasn’t read the original Rebecca is in for a real treat too, not to mention a roller coaster ride.

The story follows similar lines to Rebecca, even opening in a parallel way. The house, Asherley, like Mandelay, plays a starring role. It almost takes on a personality as its rooms and hallways echo with those who have gone before.

There is a startling contrast of innocence and experience, with Rebekah being everything the narrator is not. Envy? Jealousy? Or just lack of experience? You decide.

The reader must wade through truth and lies. What is real? What is fabrication? Can you trust all that is laid out before you?

Some women have the power to manipulate. The world is at their fingertips, or is it? Down trodden characters may be stronger than you think.

Mrs Danvers becomes Dani, as original characters undergo subtle name changes.

I thought The Winters was a fabulous book. Being a huge fan of the original Rebecca, especially the old black and white film with Laurence Olivier, I was completely enthralled with the novel. I loved the original being bought up to date and being able to see the parallels – and I loved the jaw dropping moment – Where and when? I hear you ask. Not telling, you must read the book and find out!

Utterly brilliant.

I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

JULIA WILSON