logo

67 pages 2 hours read

Hidden Bodies

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Caroline Kepnes

Hidden Bodies

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

448

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Los Angeles, California • 2010s

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In Hidden Bodies by Caroline Kepnes, Joe Goldberg, a serial killer from New York City, follows a manipulative thief named Amy to Los Angeles with the intent to kill her. While searching for Amy, Joe becomes entangled in several relationships and complex situations, including a romance with producer Love Quinn. Balancing new connections, dark secrets, and violent tendencies, Joe navigates a treacherous path of emotional manipulation, deception, and murder. This novel depicts intimate partner violence, emotional abuse, and substance use disorder.

Dark

Mysterious

Unnerving

Suspenseful

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

4.1

94,967 ratings

66%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Hidden Bodies by Caroline Kepnes delivers a dark and gripping sequel to You, blending psychological thriller elements with sharp, witty prose. While praised for its compelling plot and unique voice, some critics felt the narrative occasionally faltered with pacing issues and less relatable characters. Nevertheless, it's a worthy read for fans of the genre.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Hidden Bodies?

Fans of psychological thrillers and dark, twisted romances will relish Hidden Bodies by Caroline Kepnes. Perfect for readers who enjoyed Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn or The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins, its gripping narrative and complex, morally ambiguous protagonist draw audiences seeking suspense and depth.

4.1

94,967 ratings

66%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Character List

Joe Goldberg

The narrator of the story, whose internal struggles and critiques of modern life contribute to his complex, if unsettling, character. He navigates relationships and personal growth amidst a secretive past.

Joe’s rebound relationship following Beck, who is characterized as a cunning figure with her own secrets and opportunistic tendencies. Her interactions with Joe spur moments of introspection for him.

A movie producer and Joe’s new love interest, who exhibits compassion and challenges Joe's perception of acceptance. Her unique understanding of Joe becomes central to their relationship.

Love's brother, known for his self-destructive tendencies and Hollywood ambitions, adding tension to Joe's life. His complex relationship with his family highlights deeper emotional struggles.

Book Details
Pages

448

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Los Angeles, California • 2010s

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.