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The Girl on the Train

336 pages, 2016

fiction

fiction

1382 books
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Description

Rachel catches the same commuter train every morning. She knows it will wait at the same signal each time, overlooking a row of back gardens. She’s even started to feel like she knows the people who live in one of the houses. 

 “Jess and Jason,” she calls them. Their life—as she sees it—is perfect. If only Rachel could be that happy. And then she sees something shocking. It’s only a minute until the train moves on, but it’s enough. Now everything’s changed. Now Rachel has a chance to become a part of the lives she’s only watched from afar. Now they’ll see; she’s much more than just the girl on the train...

Unreliable Narration

Paula Hawkins uses the concept of an unreliable narrator to keep readers on their toes. The main character, Rachel, is an alcoholic who often blacks out, making her memories and perceptions questionable. This adds a layer of mystery and suspense to the story.

Exploration of Addiction

The Girl on the Train gives a raw and honest look into the life of an alcoholic. Hawkins doesn't shy away from showing the ugly side of addiction, including the impact it has on Rachel's life and relationships. It's a reminder of the importance of understanding and addressing addiction.

The Power of Perception

The book explores how our perceptions can often be misleading. Rachel often sees a 'perfect' couple from her train window, but as she digs deeper, she finds that things are not as they seem. This is a great reminder not to judge a book by its cover.

Thrilling Mystery

If you're a fan of suspense and mystery, you'll love The Girl on the Train. Hawkins keeps you guessing until the very end with a plot full of twists and turns. It's a page-turner that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

Exploration of Mental Health

Hawkins does a great job of exploring mental health issues in her book. She shows how Rachel's depression and addiction affect her daily life and relationships. It's a powerful look into the struggles many people face and a reminder to be compassionate towards others.

Quotes 4

The Girl on the Train kept me gripped from the first page to the last. It's a stunning novel.

Stephen KingStephen King - Horror fiction author

The Girl on the Train is a captivating, thrilling read. I couldn't put it down.

Gillian FlynnGillian Flynn - Thriller novelist

The Girl on the Train is a masterful thriller. It's a must-read.

A. J. FinnA. J. Finn - Mystery writer

The Girl on the Train is a gripping, suspenseful rollercoaster of a novel.

Ruth WareRuth Ware - Psychological crime author
Stephen KingGillian FlynnA. J. FinnRuth Ware