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380
Novel • Fiction
New England • 1950s
2003
Adult
18+ years
Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane follows U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels as he investigates the disappearance of a patient, Rachel Solando, from Ashecliffe Hospital for the criminally insane. Over four days, Teddy and his partner Chuck Aule uncover cryptic clues, confront dark secrets, and grapple with shifting realities amidst a looming storm on Shutter Island. Topics include trauma and mental health challenges.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Dark
Unnerving
Bittersweet
209,260 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Dennis Lehane's Shutter Island expertly combines psychological thriller and mystery elements, earning accolades for its gripping plot and compelling atmosphere. Readers praise the intricate storytelling and effective twists. Some, however, find the pacing uneven and character development lacking. Overall, it's a captivating but occasionally polarizing read.
A reader who enjoys psychological thrillers with complex, suspenseful narratives would appreciate Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane. Fans of Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl and Stephen King's The Shining will find the book's intricate plot and dark atmosphere particularly compelling. The story's twists and exploration of mental instability will captivate those who prefer mind-bending mysteries.
209,260 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Andrew Laeddis
Initially believed to be an arsonist responsible for a deadly fire, he serves as an enigmatic figure connected to the island's secrets.
Dr. John Cawley
A respected psychotherapist and the lead doctor at Ashecliffe Hospital, he plays a crucial role in the unfolding events on Shutter Island.
Rachel Solando
Introduced as a missing woman accused of murdering her children, her character undergoes multiple transformations throughout the narrative.
Dolores Chanal
Teddy Daniels’ wife, whose death in a fire is central to the emotional and mysterious tensions in the story.
Chuck Aule
Teddy's partner, a U.S. Marshal whose friendly demeanor and rapport with Teddy add depth to their investigation.
Dr. Lester Sheehan
A psychiatrist at Ashecliffe Hospital, he has a personal and professional history with Teddy that influences key events.
George Noyce
A patient at Ashecliffe whose past interactions with Teddy drive the marshal's investigation on the island.
Dr. Jeremiah Naehring
A psychotherapist who works alongside Cawley and presents a contrasting approach to mental health treatment.
The Warden
An official responsible for security at Ashecliffe Hospital, whose brief appearance introduces deeper philosophical questions about human nature.
380
Novel • Fiction
New England • 1950s
2003
Adult
18+ years
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