Synopsis

Haunted by the memory of his first wife, Rebecca, Maxim de Winter falls for a shy, unnamed young woman while vacationing in Monte Carlo. Their whirlwind romance leads to marriage, but upon their arrival at his ancestral home, Manderley, the new Mrs. de Winter finds herself thrust into a world dominated by the lingering presence of her predecessor. The magnificent estate, the oppressive housekeeper Mrs. Danvers, and even Maxim himself seem to measure her against the beautiful, enigmatic Rebecca, who is constantly alluded to as flawless and irreplaceable. Plagued by insecurity and a desperate desire to please, the new Mrs. de Winter struggles to assert her own identity while uncovering the dark secrets hidden within Manderley's walls and the truth about Rebecca's past. This classic psychological thriller masterfully explores themes of jealousy, identity, and the suffocating power of memory, building to a dramatic and unforgettable climax.

Critical Reception

"Daphne du Maurier's 'Rebecca' stands as an enduring masterpiece of psychological fiction, celebrated for its chilling suspense and profound exploration of identity."

Adaptations

Rebecca (1940 film, directed by Alfred Hitchcock), Rebecca (1997 miniseries), Rebecca (2020 film)

Metadata

ISBN:9781405513463
Pages:488
Age Rating:16+

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