55 pages • 1 hour read
When the Stars Go Dark
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Book Brief
384
Novel • Fiction
Mendocino, California • 1990s
2021
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In When the Stars Go Dark by Paula McLain, San Francisco detective Anna Hart returns to her childhood home in Mendocino to grapple with the accidental death of her daughter but gets entangled in the investigation of multiple missing girls, prompting her to confront past traumas and uncovering a potential serial killer linked to her own high school friend's unresolved murder. The novel includes themes of sexual abuse, trauma, and murder.
Mysterious
Melancholic
Dark
Suspenseful
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
64,313 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
When the Stars Go Dark by Paula McLain has received mixed reviews. Critics praise its captivating mystery and in-depth character development, but some find the pacing slow and the multiple timelines confusing. The novel's exploration of trauma and healing resonates strongly, but the blending of real events with fiction might not appeal to all readers.
Who Should Read When the Stars Go Dark?
Readers who enjoy gripping psychological thrillers and character-driven narratives like Paula Hawkins' The Girl on the Train or Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl will be captivated by Paula McLain's When the Stars Go Dark. With its blend of mystery, emotional depth, and intricate storytelling, it’s perfect for those seeking a compelling and evocative read.
64,313 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Sheriff Will Flood
Sheriff Will Flood
A diligent and methodical sheriff haunted by his obsession with solving the murder of a childhood friend, desperately seeking closure for unsolved cases involving teenage girls.
Caleb Ford
Caleb Ford
An enigmatic and troubled character whose deep psychological and emotional bonds lead to dark and unsettling paths. He is intricately tied to the central mystery of missing and abducted girls.
Cameron Curtis
Cameron Curtis
A resilient and multifaceted young girl whose mysterious disappearance serves as the catalyst for the narrative. Her experiences reflect the complexities of identity and trauma in youth.
384
Novel • Fiction
Mendocino, California • 1990s
2021
Adult
18+ years
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