Review: Sharp Objects
Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Gillian Flynn's Sharp Objects is a haunting exploration of family, trauma, and the darkest corners of the human psyche.
Camille Preaker, a conflicted journalist, returns to her hometown of Wind Gap to report on the brutal deaths of two young girls. Flynn immediately immerses you in a dark atmosphere populated by intriguing individuals that make this novel highly captivating. Not only is Camille fighting her own demons, but she is also dealing with the emotional and physical wounds she sustained in her past. The emotionally powerful, although claustrophobic, experience is built on her self-destructive behaviour and her complicated relationships with her mother and half-sister.
What makes this book different from the author's other books, like Gone Girl, which I loved, is that it doesn't focus so much on psychological troubles for the sake of story. Despite the fact that Gone Girl is full of mind games and surprising turns, it delves deeply into character growth. This novel is an incredibly personal experience because of Flynn's emphasis on emotional depth.
Like a character, Wind Gap's setting is very much alive. Flynn gives a very clear picture of this small town where everyone knows everything about everyone else and where lies are hidden everywhere. I was engrossed in a genuine yet unnerving environment where the suffocating familiarity intensifies the anxiety and fear.
Flynn's work is razor-sharp and incisive, handling difficult topics like abuse and mental illness with unrelenting honesty. I was really taken aback by all the plot twists and turns that happened during the novel. Flynn always managed to throw me into a loop with her incredibly complex moves, just when I thought I had everything under control.
If you don't like darker subjects, be aware that this novel may be pretty graphic. However, if you enjoy novels that explore the darker side of human nature, this is well worth your time. Flynn's ability to combine riveting writing with fascinating characters results in an unforgettable read.
Gillian Flynn's Sharp Objects was, to sum up, fantastic. You should read this book if you like gloomy, contemplative, captivating psychological thrillers that deal with the complexities of human relationships and the effects of tragedy.
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