The Maidens by Alex Michaelides offers a suspenseful, psychological thriller set in the world of academia. Praised for its gripping plot and engaging writing style, it keeps readers hooked till the end. However, some felt the character development was lacking and the final twist predictable, which detracted from the overall impact.

Ideal for fans of psychological thrillers, The Maidens by Alex Michaelides captivates readers who enjoy intense, suspenseful narratives akin to The Secret History by Donna Tartt and Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn. If you relish dark academia themes, complex characters, and unexpected twists, this novel will grip you from start to finish.

The plot follows Mariana Andros, a widow and group therapist, who travels to Cambridge University to investigate the murder of her niece Zoe's friend. As she delves deeper, she becomes suspicious of Professor Edward Fosca and his secret society, "the Maidens." As the body count rises, Mariana's emotional turmoil intensifies, culminating in a dramatic reveal that ties past and present tragedies together. 

Contains references to sexual exploitation, violence, and grief.

Mysterious / Dark / Suspenseful / Unnerving

- The Maidens by Alex Michaelides is set in Cambridge, England, reflecting the author's time studying at the University of Cambridge, which adds an authentic academic atmosphere to the novel.
- The novel intertwines elements of Greek mythology, particularly focusing on the myth of Persephone, echoing Michaelides' interest in incorporating classical elements into modern psychological thrillers.
- Alex Michaelides, known for his debut novel The Silent Patient, explores themes of secret societies and the psychological intricacies of the characters in The Maidens.

Alex Michaelides

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Maidens and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Maidens Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1, Chapters 1-10

Prologue-Part 1, Chapter 10

The Maidens Prologue-Part 1, Chapter 10 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 11-20

The Maidens Part 1, Chapters 11-20 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 1-10

The Maidens Part 2, Chapters 1-10 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 11-18

The Maidens Part 2, Chapters 11-18 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 1-13

The Maidens Part 3, Chapters 1-13 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 1-11

The Maidens Part 4, Chapters 1-11 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 12-21

The Maidens Part 4, Chapters 12-21 Summary & Analysis

Parts 5-6 and Epilogue

The Maidens Parts 5-6 and Epilogue Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

The Maidens Character Analysis

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Themes

The Maidens Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Maidens Symbols & Motifs

Literary Devices

The Maidens Literary Devices

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Important Quotes

The Maidens Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Maidens Essay Topics

The Maidens

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Maidens?

Reading Age

Book Details