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shawna_reads 's review for:

The Maidens by Alex Michaelides
2.0
dark mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

"If you're not aware of the transcendent, if you're not awake to the glorious mystery of life and death that you're lucky enough to be part of - if that doesn't fill you with joy and strike you with awe... you might as well not be alive." 

There is a death at Cambridge University sparking alumni Mariana to check on her niece and investigate what happened. Evidence points to Edward Fosca, a popular, charismatic professor in Greek Tragedy. He is adored by many, and followed by a secret society of students called the Maidens. When another member of the Maidens is found murdered, Mariana becomes determined in proving Edward is the killer. 

I try not to go into books with high expectations because I hate to be disappointed, but that is exactly what happened here. I personally loved The Silent Patient so I figured I would love this one too. Well, it was determined that was a lie! 

The good - The story was a little twisty with all the red herrings so I wasn't expecting the murderer reveal, although I briefly had my suspicions. I don't follow a lot of Greek mythology, but the way it was described wasn't lost on me and I learned some new things (I've forgotten them now, but it was nice knowing in the moment 😂). 

The bad - Everything else 🤷🏾‍♀️ The characters were bland, annoying, and repetitive. Somehow every single clue related to the MC's life, and her obsession with the Greek professor was exasperating. I didn't care much for any of it, but I needed to know who the killer was lol