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58 pages 1 hour read

The Woman in Cabin 10

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016

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Book Brief

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Ruth Ware

The Woman in Cabin 10

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

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Luxury Cruise Ship • Contemporary

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

880L

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Super Short Summary

In The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware, travel journalist Lo investigates a suspicious incident aboard the luxury cruise ship Aurora Borealis after hearing a scream and seeing a blood smear. Despite no record of the suspected cabin's occupant, she doggedly pursues the truth, facing dangerous opposition from passengers and crew. The intense investigation leads to harrowing discoveries and profound personal impact. The book includes themes of post-traumatic stress and domestic violence.

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Dark

Unnerving

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

3.9

704,079 ratings

62%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Ruth Ware's The Woman in Cabin 10 delivers a suspenseful and gripping mystery set on a luxury cruise. Positive reviews highlight its tense atmosphere and unpredictable twists. However, some readers find the protagonist's decisions frustrating and the pacing uneven. Overall, it’s praised for its engaging plot but critiqued for some character and structural issues.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Woman in Cabin 10 ?

Fans of Ruth Ware's The Woman in Cabin 10 are typically drawn to psychological thrillers with tightly-woven plots and unreliable narrators. If you enjoy the tension and intrigue found in Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn or The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins, this book will keep you gripped with its suspenseful twists and claustrophobic setting.

3.9

704,079 ratings

62%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Laura (Lo) Blacklock

The protagonist and narrator, Lo is a travel journalist who embarks on a luxury cruise to cover a story, grappling with personal trauma and professional ambitions.

Lo's serious and devoted boyfriend, who works as a foreign correspondent and plays a significant role in the mainland events related to Lo's disappearance.

A self-made billionaire and owner of the luxury cruise ship Aurora Borealis, who is initially portrayed as charming and approachable.

The reclusive wife of Lord Richard Bullmer, who is believed to spend most of her time in Norway and has had a history of serious illness.

A mysterious figure first encountered by Lo borrowing mascara, whose true identity and story aboard the ship gradually unfold.

The manager of hospitality aboard the Aurora, known for her gracious demeanor and overseeing the ship's staff.

A well-known travel journalist and photographer on the cruise, who has personal and professional connections with the ship's guests.

An editor for the Vernean Times, initially perceived as ambitious and ruthless, but later seen as a powerful player in her field.

A journalist and former coworker of Lo's, who offers support in her investigation but has a complicated past with her.

A food critic and travel journalist on the cruise, initially suspicious but ultimately a harmless gossip with insights into the night of the murder.

An ex-model and wife of a financier, who is supportive and empathetic towards Lo during her time on the ship.

A financier and close friend of Bullmer, characterized by his bluntness and minimal involvement in the central events.

An investor on the ship, who keeps to himself and expresses disinterest in financially supporting the cruise.

The head of security aboard the Aurora, who is involved in managing the investigation into the events Lo uncovers.

A Polish cleaning woman responsible for tidying Lo's cabin, who becomes involved unknowingly in Lo's inquiries.

A front cabin steward known for her loyalty to Bullmer and her interactions with the elite guests.

The spa coordinator aboard the Aurora, known for her bubbly personality and efforts to assist Lo.

One of Lo's cabin stewards, who becomes evasive when questioned about activities on the night in question.

A steward serving Lo's cabin, known for his personal involvement with Tina and his limited role in the larger narrative.

Lo's boss at Velocity, whose maternity leave creates the opportunity for Lo's cruise assignment.

A long-time friend of Lo's, mentioned as part of her personal support network.

An investor with a disrupted travel plan, leading to a subplot involving missing passengers.

A kind farmer in Norway, who aids Lo after her escape from the ship and ensures her safe return.

Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Luxury Cruise Ship • Contemporary

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

880L

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