Trendeki Kız

Paula Hawkins

  • First published 2014
  • 360 pages
  • Turkish
Each morning, Rachel Watson takes the same commuter train, observing the lives unfolding in the houses along the track. She fixates on a seemingly perfect couple she nicknames Jess and Jason, whose idyllic existence she imagines to be everything her own lost life once was. Their daily routine, as viewed from her window, offers a brief escape from her own struggles with divorce and alcoholism.

However, one morning, Rachel witnesses something shocking in their garden - a fleeting moment that shatters her perception of their perfect world. When the woman she calls Jess, Megan Hipwell, is reported missing, Rachel finds herself inextricably drawn into the investigation, convinced that what she saw holds a vital clue. Yet, her own fragmented memories, blurred by alcohol, make her an unreliable witness, leaving her to question not only what happened but also the truth of her own recollections. This psychological thriller delves into obsession, memory, and the hidden turmoil beneath seemingly flawless lives, keeping readers guessing until the final revelation.
3.96
3.4M ratings across the web
7 in 10 readers loved it, 1 didn't like it
"The Girl on the Train" is widely praised for its captivating and fast-paced narrative, drawing readers into an engrossing psychological thriller. Many reviewers found it to be an absolute page-turner, highlighting its addictive quality and ability to maintain tension throughout. The novel's distinctive use of unreliable narrators, particularly the protagonist, is frequently cited as a strong point, effectively creating intrigue and keeping readers guessing. Some readers appreciated the intricate character studies and the author's skill in crafting a complex mystery with numerous plausible red herrings, making for a gripping and fascinating experience.

However, the book also garners significant criticism, particularly regarding its characters. A common sentiment is that many, if not all, of the characters are unlikable, with some finding them pathetic, annoying, or even cartoonishly awful. Several reviewers felt that the female characters, in particular, were poorly developed or defined solely by their relationships with men. Another frequent complaint is the predictability of the plot twist or the main culprit, with some readers claiming to have guessed the ending very early on. The pacing was also a point of contention; while some found it quick, others described sections as slow, repetitive, or tedious, especially concerning the protagonist's recurring blackouts and inebriated actions, which some felt were used too conveniently to advance the plot.

Overall, "The Girl on the Train" is a polarizing read, lauded by many as a thrilling and well-crafted mystery, but criticized by others for its unlikable characters and predictable elements. It is likely to appeal to readers who enjoy psychological thrillers featuring unreliable narrators and intricate, suspenseful plots, even if the characters are deeply flawed. Those who prioritize relatable or sympathetic characters, or who dislike repetitive narrative devices, might find it less engaging.

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This edition
İthaki Yayınları, 2015
ISBN
9786053754428
Language
Turkish
Original edition Originally published in 2014 · English · Booket

Other editions (185)