This is the second book that I have listened to by Alex Michaelides, and once again, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I found it to be more interesting in general than The Silent Patient. This was probably because, once again, the author is focusing on psychotherapy, which is also my field, and I think that he has such a good grasp of the inner thoughts and struggles of a psychotherapist. He does seem to have a unique understanding of this field and once again, I found myself checking his background to see if he had ever worked in this field. To my surprise, he did not. He also weaves an interesting tale of mystery and family dynamics. My only complaint about the man character is her seemingly overdramatic focus on her dead husband. It is well explained, however, in that she had so few relationships with anyone, really until she met Sebastion. I appreciated the appearance of Theo, from The Silent Patient, in this book. The narrators, Kobna Holdbrook-Smith and Louise Brealey, did an amazing job of portraying the characters in the book. There is also a male narrator with a very deep and creepy voice that fits well for the male character, but I cannot find his name listed anywhere. I really found myself looking forward to listening and really curious as to who the murderer would turn out to be. At the last, I did figure it out, right before the author revealed the culprit, but that did not ruin the book for me. I would like to Thank Netgalley and Macmillan Audio for allowing me to preview this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

This book had all of the dark academia tropes I love: Greek mythology and Greek philosophy references, a tightknit academic group, a slightly odd narrative, and of course, unexplained murder. This one was a bit different as it was told mostly through the point-of-view of Mariana Andros, a group therapist and former student of Cambridge University, which her niece that she partially raised and informally adopted with her late husband is currently attending.

When Mariana gets the call from her niece, Zoe, telling her that her friend has been brutally murdered and giving her information that leads her to Greek Tragedy professor, Edward Fosca, Mariana becomes determined to prove that Fosca is guilty. Edward Fosca is the leader of a small academic group that meets outside of class, a group entirely made up of female students, which he has dubbed The Maidens. The first victim of the murders is a member, and despite Fosca having an alibi, Mariana has no doubt that he is guilty. When a second victim is found to also be a member of The Maidens, Mariana only feels she has more reason to suspect him.

The narrative is compelling, deeply dark the whole way through. It felt very much like a psychological thriller especially as it was being told through the almost clinical but undoubtedly emotional perspective of Mariana, who is a psychotherapist. Darker and gripping (although admittedly at times hard to read) were the chapters told through the perspective of who we assume to be the girl's killer, whose perspective is similar to Mariana's in that it is also clinical, but lacks the empathy of Mariana, this narrator is clearly a cold person with a means to an end.

The ending was not something I expected on any level, which was incredibly satisfying. I had my suspicions about who was guilty and gripped onto little details that I thought proved myself and I ended up completely baffled. Most surprising was just how dark the twist ended up being, completely turning the entire narrative on its head and making me rethink everything. This was incredibly well-written and the story was executed to perfection.

The audiobook was great, I very much enjoyed both narrators, and the male narrator left me with chills after each chapter. Very compelling.

Tense, uncomfortable, suspenseful, compulsive. I could not put this book down over the course of two days. I carried it everywhere I went, hoping for the chance to read a few more pages. Every time I thought I had it figured out, something happened to make me change my mind. Bravo to Michaelides for spinning together this story incorporating Greek mythology into this stunning tale!

I read the Silent Patient and sadly I have the same feelings with The Maidens. I was able to figure out pretty much everything early on. Their was just this way that the author kept bringing up a couple of characters over and over again that just made things obvious. I didn’t hate this book, just like I didn’t hate The Silent Patient. I just wish I would have been guessing until the end. I will continue to read his books. They are very entertaining.

First of all, the narration of this audiobook is wonderful! Both narrators are excellent and get five stars in narration. I just wanted to start off with that since I was given the audiobook version.

The story however is only 3 stars. I was expecting a lot following "The Silent Patient", and unfortunately this book did not match up to that.one. It was still a good read, but it wasn't nearly as intriguing. I wish there had been more of the backstory of Marianne to really bring the pieces all together at the end. It just felt like something was missing. I think the author writes well and keeps the story moving, I just wasn't completely happy with how this one was resolved. Overall, definitely still an enjoyable book, just not as good as I had hoped it would be after the previous book.

The Maidens is a murder mystery mixed with Greek tragedy.

CW: grooming of a minor, brainwashing, suicidal ideations (mentioned), inappropriate sexual relationships mentioned (adult/underage child (also pedophilia?) as well as teacher/student)

It took me awhile to get into this book. The beginning seemed to drag on which wasn't something . I felt as though Mariana was a little unbelievable in her sleuthing and the fact that she was adamant about who the killer was. The ending was suspenseful and possibly one you won't see coming because of the copious red herrings.

The Greek mythology was a fun addition and I felt like it added to the plot and wasn't just there as a device.

I read and listened to this book. I enjoyed the narrators, they fit the characters and the enunciation was clear and well paced.

The Maidens was by far one of my most anticipated books of the year. Dark academia, Greek mythology, and a murder mystery? Sign me up! Unfortunately, this novel wasn’t the slam dunk I was expecting it to be.

Things I liked: The audiobook narration performed by Louise Brealey was well done, she has a British accent and her voice is soothing and drew me in, enticing me to keep listening. There are several chapters narrated by the unknown killer, performed by Kobna Holdbrook-Smith, which were eerie and kept me guessing at his identity.

I was also intrigued by the story’s setting which takes place at Cambridge. The author expertly weaves an atmospheric narrative which made me feel as though I was at the college with these characters.

Unfortunately, there were several aspects of this book that I wasn’t a fan of. I understand that this is a mystery and the author is trying to confuse the reader but there were too many Red Herrings and unfinished plot points. To avoid spoilers, I won’t go into detail but there are two character storylines in particular that are so pointless, they could have been omitted from the novel altogether.

As for the main character, Mariana, she was a fine protagonist but I was bothered by how easy it was for her to insert herself into the police investigation of the murdered students. She’s a therapist but somehow this qualifies her to investigate and question possible suspects? I found this so implausible.

Although I didn’t enjoy this book, I’m still interested to read what this author writes next.

Thank you to Netgalley and Celadon Books for the advanced audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

I loved this book. I found the campus setting intriguing, and enjoyed the inclusion of Greek mythology. I also like how the book connected to THE SILENT PATIENT in subtle ways. This was one of my favorite reads of 2021 so far, and I really enjoyed both narrators. It was very difficult to walk away!

Once I started this audiobook I didn't want to stop listening until I was finished - I was completely drawn in! I loved the Cambridge setting and the numerous references to Greek Mythology and Greek Tragedies. I didn't see the twist coming which is definitely a sign of a good thriller. Fans of The Silent Patient should definitely check out this one!

Thank you Netgalley for this Audio-ARC in exchange for my honest feedback and review.

Marina is a therapist who holds group therapy sessions. She has experienced quite a lot of loss in her short life. When her niece, Zoe, calls in hysterics she go right back to the school that brought her to where her life is now. Determined to protect Zoe at all costs she sets out to find who is killing women in a group called The Maidens.

I could hardly stop listening to this audiobook. I simply devoured it in less than 2 days. I didn't see that end coming at all! I loved the connection to The Silent Patient. I believe I may have squealed a little. Alex Michaelides you are so talented you're quickly becoming my favorite author.

To say that The Maiden was one of my most anticipated reads of the year would be an understatement. I really enjoyed The Silent Patient and this is coming from someone who is constantly disappointed by the thriller genre. Add the exciting writing style of Alex Michaelides with a twist of Greek mythology and you’ve got me sold.

Unfortunately, this wasn’t the 5 star read I was hoping for. Don’t get me wrong, it was still enjoyable but it wasn’t the soul shattering, mind twisting story that I expected. Michaelides creates an amazing atmosphere and his writing is quite sophisticated and lovely. He also does that thing where every character introduced has an air of suspicion around them. The red herring he tried to throw might fool a lot of people but I expected this person to be involved in the murders from the beginning.

I will say that I didn’t expect a certain aspect and the influence of another character throughout the novel. I did figure out the whole thing before the big reveal, though.

Like I’ve mentioned before, I am not easily duped by thrillers so I’m sure that most people will enjoy this substantially more than I did. Michaelides enjoys using therapy as a device in his books so far and I do think it’s cool how he involves that. I also think it’s important how he used grooming to show the damage that can be done on young minds. Throughout the novel, there’s a lot of this being done and Mariana has to address this. As a therapist, she has to remind herself that the terrible things people do are often because of the horrors inflicted on them.

All in all, this was a darkly entertaining thriller that intertwines itself in Greek tragedies. The lush setting only adds to the atmosphere and will keep you reading until you’ve finished. Try to lower your expectations a bit from the hype and you’ll probably enjoy it immensely.

Thank you to Celadon and the author for the opportunity to read this novel. I will still continue to pick up the books Alex Michaelides puts out in the fire. That cover is absolutely gorgeous, as well.

Trigger warnings for grooming, self-harm, drugging, murder, unwanted sexual advances.

Blog and Bookstagram links to be added

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a fabulous book. It exceeded my expectations! I would love to recommend this book to anyone who loves a mystery wrapped in intellectual innuendos. The Greek mythology makes it historical yet interesting.. ENJOY!!!

3.5⭐️
This author writes amazing books. His mystery, suspense-thrillers always have me on the edge of my seat.
So I was super excited about getting my hands on this one. I listened to the audiobook and the narrators were good. This had murder surrounded by many mysterious events and crazy disturbing side characters. Some really good stuff and then....... he just drops off with this _______ ending.
I did enjoy it. I did. But. What. Was. That? Really?
Thanks to Celadon Books via Netgalley

Terrific book however a bit predictable. I am not one to guess who the killer is very easily however I did early on. It was just a feeling I had gotten. Even though I was right it didn't diminish how much I enjoyed the book. That twist at the end I didn't see coming!!

The narator was great, easy to follow along and well spoken.

I am ambivalent writing this review because I understand why there are so many readers who loved it. Michaelides is an excellent mystery writer. So far he has produced two well thought out mysteries-replete with misdirection, credible presentation and surprise ending. He also keeps his audience shifting suspects and does some nice twists and turns.

For me I did not become hooked and absorbed from the get go alike I was in The Silent Patient. The Maidens is dryer, more cerebral yet retains the qualities of a good classic mystery. The Maidens does gain momentum, but it is further along. I like the use of the mythical gods and goddesses and the authors use of allegory in the story. Very effective. I also like the use of different mental health professionals as central characters in both books..

The plot takes place at Cambridge University where Edward Fosca, a debonair professor has a gaggle of beautiful female students who adore him-hence the title The Maidens who worship Demeter and Persephone. When one of the girls is savagely murdered -a student named Zoe persuades her aunt, Marianna to come to Cambridge and look into her friend's death. Fosca is the main suspect at which point there are pros and cons into thinking him the killer. Other girls are murdered as we gain momentum before we have resolution of learning who the murderer is.

Absolutely enthralling! I started the audiobook while reading along with an ebook arc and I absolutely could not stop. It was everything I had hoped for coming off of Michaelides' debut novel The Silent Patient. He is 2 for 2 now! His way of storytelling and weaving characters together is brilliant.

The Maidens was not what I was expecting at all. Perhaps, I am just not intelligent enough to understand the deeper meaning behind the plot or I mistakenly assumed the book was going to be more in the realm of dark academia when all it was is set on the Cambridge campus but overall the storyline was so disparate and not cohesive. It was also predictable since one knows from the Silent Patient that the author likes to give the readers a twist in this book he leaves plenty of crumbs yet he seems to be trying to give a deeper meaning in terms of mental health and it just did not work for me. Very disappointing. HOWEVER, the only reason I was able to finish this book was because I really did enjoy the narration of the audiobook. The narrators kept me engaged in the story even if I was disappointed in the overall plot. I would definitely recommend the audio to my library customers.

4.5 stars rounding up to 5 stars.

Wow, this is the best book I’ve read in awhile. The writing was haunting, beautiful, and darkly atmospheric. The Greek myths tied into the novel did wonders for the writing. Ultimately, while this is reminiscent of the Secret History, I much preferred this. The mystery, twists, and red herrings kept me interested throughout.

Overall, I liked Mariana in the beginning, but towards the end she started to ignore flags. For being such a deep and logical person, she seemed to lack self-awareness.

The minor characters were interesting (Clarissa, the Maidens, Fred, etc.) as well as Mariana’s backstory.

The Maiden’s by Alex Michaelides
Publication date: June 15, 2021

4/5 stars
Having read The Silent Patient, I was excited for Alex Michaelides second novel, The Maidens. The blurb had me even more intrigued; secret society of females known as the Maidens, murder mystery, Greek Tragedy professor with an alibi, I was ready.

The story takes place at Cambridge University, a place the main character, Mariana, has previous ties to. With the murder of one of the Maidens, Mariana is determined to prove the charming professor, Edward Fosca, is the murderer.

While the setting at the University begins as a light prestigious place, it continuously darkens. Michaelides paints a clear, detailed image of the setting in a way that places you there. Mariana was difficult to connect to and I would have liked more exploration and dialogue with her character, her past and less on the professor.

This dark murder mystery, thriller is enveloped in Greek mythology and hidden clues. With the mystery and twists, I was entertained and engaged throughout the book.

The audio narration was paced well. The dialogue and characters changes were smooth and worked well. No complaints. I would definitely recommend this to readers of murder mystery who enjoy clues and twists.

Thanks to Netgalley, Celadon, and Macmillan Audio for the advanced copy to review

Death and tragedy have surrounded Mariana all her life. Still, since marrying the man of her dreams, finding her calling, and raising her orphaned niece, Zoe, as if she was her own, Mariana's life seemed to be finally on track.

That is until tragedy struck, and she loses her husband. We meet her a year after her loss, and still grieving, she leaves everything behind when Zoe calls asking for help. Her best friend was murdered, and Zoe suspects professor Fosca and his posse, the maidens, are very much involved.

Mariana sets out to Cambridge to protect her niece and make sure professor Fosca is caught; Mariana is obsessively convinced of his guilt.

When another girl is found murdered in the same ritualistic way, Mariana knows it's just a matter of time before another body shows up. She is determined to put an end to it before the murderer targets Zoe.

I usually try not to be greedy and only request one format of a book I am interested in - either a copy I can read or a copy I can listen to. I was almost done reading The Maidens when the audiobook became available; I should have just let it go, right? Well, no. For one, the audiobook is published by Macmillan Audio, and y'all know how I feel about their productions. For "two," Louise Brealey is a narrator in this book, and I am a massive fan of hers. She is one of my favourite narrators, and let me tell you, Kobna Holdbrook-Smith matched her talent!

Between the two of them, the story came to life. Their pace was impeccable, their chemistry was evident, and I feel they took a magnificent story and elevated it. There were passages in The Maidens that were written in Greek. I loved listening to the narrators read them! Even though I still did not know what it meant, I appreciated listening to them being spoken as they should be, which, unfortunately, I failed to do independently. I also liked the atmosphere the narration brought to our mystery character's chapters. The narration was so creepy! I loved it! Lastly, I read with a North American "accent," so I love listening to British books because they always sound better than my "head voice."

Technically and based on my personal criteria, I can not fault The Maidens. The plot idea was excellent – Greek Tragedies ARE the perfect inspiration to thrillers. The way Michaelides executed his vision was superb. It was everything I love in a book – Fast, witty, enthralling, fair, compelling. Reading The Maidens was like being pulled into a vortex: each time I started reading, my world ceased to exist, and I was utterly immersed in the world Michaelides created just for me (okay, okay, it was a gift for everyone who reads it). He has this ability to build an atmosphere so authentic, you see what he wants you to see and feel what he wants you to feel. He played entirely fair, but for the first time in a long time, I didn't quite put the puzzle completely together; his final twist was "chef's kiss." I liked it so much I read the audiobook in its entirety right after I finished the e-book.

Mariana was a fantastic character, and her development was done perfectly. I felt like I knew her; I saw myself in her. Experiencing the book through her eyes was a privilege. Alex gave each character a unique voice and a purpose within the text. Different characters evoked different visceral reactions in me that still linger: The empathy I felt for Mariana, The dislike I felt for Fosca, the revulsion I felt for Morris, the loathing and pity I felt for the harpies, erm, I mean the maidens, the ambivalence I felt for Fred. In fact, I don't think there was a single character I didn't have an emotional reaction to.

As for my personal feelings, first and foremost, I need to let out the excitement I felt when seeing some characters from The Silent Patient make an appearance. It's not often that Thriller/mystery authors actually BUILD their own universe, and I'm here for Michaelides' world. I can't wait to see more of it! I feel his books can be read in any order (so far), but do yourself a favour and have both books handy when you start reading, it will be impossible not to read them back to back. In fact, I mentioned that I read The Maidens twice in a row (one as an audiobook); I forgot to say that I have also added The Silent Patient to my May TBR because I just can't stop thinking about it now!

I really don't want to drop even an inkling of a spoiler, but Michaelides really surprised me with parts of his twist. I was hoodwinked, fooled, stupefied, and loved every minute of it—utter and total whiplash syndrome. As much as I am competitive and love solving plot puzzles, there is something to be said about the thrill of being surprised when reading a book. I am cherishing this feeling.

The way Michaelides describes places is brilliant. I really felt like I was at that farm, in Greece, at Mariana's house. I felt like I had attended St Christopher's College. Basically, wherever he took me, he evoked a vivid visual that made me feel like I was there. This, to me, is another of the millions of reasons why I adore his writing style.

Lastly, (though I feel no one but me will care) can I take a moment and show my most profound appreciation for Alex's love of commas? The comma is my favourite graphic sign. I think I even use them when I speak. There are no words to express how much I love seeing them used. Is it just me, or do they really make sentences so much more dynamic and exciting? Just me? Okay, rave done.

I foresee The Maidens making it to my 2021 top reads list! And I will be utterly shocked if it doesn't make it to Goodreads' best thriller shortlist.


Disclaimer: I first read it as an ARC. In exchange for an honest review, I am thankful to Macmillan Audio, NetGalley and Alex Michaelides for providing me with a copy of The Maidens audiobook