32 pages • 1 hour read
The Postman Always Rings Twice
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
116
Novel • Fiction
California • 1930s
1934
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Postman Always Rings Twice by James M. Cain follows Frank Chambers, a drifter who arrives at a diner near Glendale, California, and begins an affair with Cora, the wife of the diner’s owner, Nick. Hoping to be together, Frank and Cora plot Nick's murder. Their plan initially fails, but they later succeed, leading to escalating consequences and a tragic conclusion.
Dark
Suspenseful
Mysterious
Unnerving
Gritty
Reviews & Readership
47,392 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
James M. Cain's The Postman Always Rings Twice is praised for its taut writing and compelling plot, showcasing raw, intense emotion and psychological depth. Critics commend its noir elements and vivid characters but note that some may find its themes bleak and its morality ambiguous. Overall, it's a gripping, fast-paced read that's a significant contribution to American crime fiction.
Who Should Read The Postman Always Rings Twice?
Fans of gritty crime fiction and dark romance, akin to readers of The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett or Double Indemnity by James M. Cain, will relish The Postman Always Rings Twice. Ideal for those who appreciate morally complex characters, intense atmosphere, and suspenseful, fast-paced plots.
47,392 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Cora Papadakis
Cora Papadakis
The wife of Nick Papadakis, who is discontent with her marriage and seeks excitement and fame, often attracting the attention and actions of others.
Nick “The Greek” Papadakis
Nick “The Greek” Papadakis
The trusting owner of a diner called the Twin Oaks Tavern, who is unaware of the tensions and schemes involving his wife and Frank.
Katz
Katz
A crafty lawyer with a leathery face and a black moustache, known for his wily speech and rivalry with the district attorney, Kyle Sackett.
Kyle Sackett
Kyle Sackett
A big, bald district attorney with a breezy manner, recognized for his intelligence and dangerous demeanor, and as Katz's competitive counterpart.
116
Novel • Fiction
California • 1930s
1934
Adult
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.