52 pages 1 hour read

Things We Do in the Dark

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2022

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.

Summary and Study Guide

Overview

As a nested narrative full of twists and unexpected revelations, Jennifer Hillier’s Things We Do in the Dark (2022) includes many traditional elements of a classic murder mystery—multiple gruesome murders, a cast of shady suspects, conflicting testimony, switched identities, a failed blackmail scheme, a dogged investigative reporter, unrequited passion, red herrings, and, supremely, a murder victim with a net worth of more than $80 million. However, the novel resists simply being escapist entertainment, as Hillier suggested in copious interviews surrounding the novel’s publication. In the story of Paris Peralta’s harrowing return to her long-buried past, the novel explores timely, difficult themes including the traumatic impact of abuse and the dark power of privilege and celebrity. Spurred by pre-publication buzz on social media and Hillier’s established reputation in six previous thrillers for intricate storytelling and psychologically complex characters, Things We Do in the Dark was an immediate Amazon and New York Times best-seller.

This study guide refers to the 2022 Minotaur paperback edition.

Content Warning: This novel contains descriptions of child abuse, drug and alcohol abuse, sexual assault, and death by suicide.

Plot Summary

Sixty-something actor-comedian Jimmy Peralta is considered washed up. Now, however, he is ready to launch a comeback—thanks to streaming specials.

blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
Unlock Icon

Unlock all 52 pages of this Study Guide

Plus, gain access to 8,850+ more expert-written Study Guides.

Including features:

+ Mobile App
+ Printable PDF
+ Literary AI Tools
Sign up with GoogleSign up with Google