The Maidens
by Alex Michaelides
Summary
Edward Fosca is a murderer. Of this Mariana is certain. But Fosca is untouchable. A handsome and charismatic Greek Tragedy professor at Cambridge University, Fosca is adored by staff and students alike—particularly by the members of a secret society of female students known as The Maidens.
Mariana Andros is a brilliant but troubled group therapist who becomes fixated on The Maidens when one member, a friend of Mariana’s niece Zoe, is found murdered in Cambridge.
Mariana, who was once herself a student at the university, quickly suspects that behind the idyllic beauty of the spires and turrets, and beneath the ancient traditions, lies something sinister. And she becomes convinced that, despite his alibi, Edward Fosca is guilty of the murder. But why would the professor target one of his students? And why does he keep returning to the rites of Persephone, the maiden, and her journey to the underworld?
When another body is found, Mariana’s obsession with proving Fosca’s guilt spirals out of control, threatening to destroy her credibility as well as her closest relationships. But Mariana is determined to stop this killer, even if it costs her everything—including her own life.
GoodReads Nominee for Favorite Mystery & Thriller 2021
My Review
I really enjoyed this dark and atmospheric academia story. There is some mild language but no spice, which I appreciated since it allowed the focus to stay on the suspense and mystery.
The short chapters were fantastic. Alex Michaelides has a way of pulling you in so you say, “just one more chapter,” and suddenly hours have passed. The pacing was on point and kept me interested from start to finish.
I listened to the audiobook, which features two narrators because of the dual POV. Both narrators did a wonderful job and truly brought the story to life. Their voices enhanced the atmosphere and made me feel immersed in the eerie Cambridge setting.
The book delivers all the right dark academia vibes. It balances an interesting murder mystery with fun twists and turns, while weaving in just the right amount of creepiness. I especially loved the old-fashioned Cambridge details that made the mystery so compelling. The traditions were fascinating, from students debating with professors to private gardens, fireplaces in student rooms, and “bedders” who cared for them. I could clearly imagine the fog curling over the worn stone streets and the faint sound of footsteps trailing behind Mariana.
Another detail I really enjoyed was the Easter eggs that connect this novel to the author’s previous book (The Silent Patient). Those crossovers made it feel like all his stories exist in the same universe, which was a fun touch.
The writing style was brilliant. It is immersive, descriptive, and wonderfully atmospheric. The novel reads like a literary mystery, exploring the human psyche, grief, and Greek mythology, with murders woven into the plot. Mariana’s character stood out to me as a troubled but compelling heroine. Her past and her grief added depth, while the Greek tragedy elements were subtle and never overwhelming.
The big reveal at the end left me stunned and completely surprised. On top of that, the novel raises thought-provoking questions about childhood trauma and how it follows into adulthood, handled with sensitivity and care.
Overall, this story was an engrossing read with a chilling atmosphere, strong writing, and a shocking conclusion. While not perfect, it delivered exactly what I wanted in a dark academia thriller. Definitely recommend it!