2017 Jun 20
Rachel takes the same commuter train every morning and night. Every day she rattles down the track, flashes past a stretch of cozy suburban homes, and stops at the signal that allows her to daily watch the same couple breakfasting on their deck. She’s even started to feel like she knows them. Jess and Jason, she calls them. Their life—as she sees it—is perfect. And then she sees something shocking. It’s only a minute until the train moves on, but it’s enough. Now everything’s changed. Unable to keep it to herself, Rachel goes to the police. But is she really as unreliable as they say? Soon she is deeply entangled not only in the investigation but in the lives of everyone involved. Has she done more harm than good?
Hawkins’ novel was an immediate New York Times bestseller, receiving immense praise from critics around the globe. This riveting psychological thriller will keep you hooked from the very first page. The lives and personalities of each character are well-written, deeply complex, and highly entangled. As each connection unravels, a new layer of the mystery is revealed. In true psychological thriller fashion, none of the characters can be trusted – not even the main protagonist herself. The highly realistic nature of each character will keep you guessing.
Nevertheless, the unreliable narration which has received much acclaim, may not be well suited towards readers who prefer a steadier narration style. Certain moments of the novel may appear dragged out as well, and the tangled web of the plot can get frustrating. Nonetheless, your curiosity will persevere, since the end reveal is not obvious. That being said, The Girl on the Train is not for everyone, although it is most certainly worth the try.
Rating: 3.8/5
