Fragile

Fragile is a modern Gothic psychological thriller with a contemporary twist on the classic novel Rebecca. Nell Ballard is a runaway foster child with a dark secret who seizes a position at Starling Villas, home to the enigmatic Robin Wilder. However, her new lodgings may not be the safe haven she was hoping for, as her employer has secrets of his own and lives by a rigid set of rules.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 20 January 2022
Publisher: Pan Macmillan

Fragile is a captivating modern Gothic psychological thriller that takes a fresh and intriguing approach to the timeless classic novel, Rebecca. Written by the acclaimed and award-winning author Sarah Hilary, this gripping tale delves into the depths of human psyche and explores the sinister consequences of obsession and deceit.

The story revolves around Nell Ballard, a young woman who has fled her past and seeks solace in a new place. As a former foster child with a dark secret that she desperately tries to keep hidden, Nell yearns for a sense of belonging and a chance to start over. When she lands a job at Starling Villas, a mysterious and secluded estate, she believes that she has found the sanctuary she has been searching for.

However, Nell soon realizes that her new lodgings may not be as safe and secure as she had hoped. Her employer, Robin Wilder, is a enigmatic figure who lives by a strict set of rules and operates within a world of secrets. As Nell begins to uncover the dark truths behind the Villas, she realizes that her arrival may not be a mere coincidence, and that she possesses knowledge that could be dangerous to those around her.

Fragile is a masterfully crafted novel that blends elements of psychological suspense, gothic horror, and contemporary storytelling. With its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and atmospheric writing, it keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Sarah Hilary's ability to create a sense of unease and tension is unparalleled, and her portrayal of the fragile nature of human relationships is both haunting and thought-provoking.

One of the standout aspects of Fragile is its modern twist on the classic Rebecca. While retaining the essence of the original story, Hilary adds her unique perspective and layers of complexity to the narrative. The novel explores themes of obsession, power dynamics, and the consequences of one's choices, and it does so in a way that is both relevant and relatable to contemporary readers.

The characters in Fragile are well-developed and multi-dimensional. Nell Ballard is a relatable and sympathetic protagonist who has experienced trauma and is struggling to find her place in the world. Her journey of self-discovery and the discovery of the truth about her past is compelling and emotionally charged. Robin Wilder, on the other hand, is a mysterious and enigmatic figure who captivates Nell with his charm and allure. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Wilder has his own secrets and motivations, and his interactions with Nell are filled with tension and suspense.

The writing in Fragile is elegant and restrained, yet it also manages to evoke a sense of dread and unease. Hilary's prose is vivid and descriptive, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the world of the Villas and the characters that inhabit it. The atmospheric setting, with its gothic architecture and eerie atmosphere, adds to the overall sense of suspense and adds to the tension of the narrative.

Praise for Fragile has been pouring in from critics and readers alike. Marian Keyes, author of the bestselling novel Grown Ups, described the book as "stunning." Val McDermid, author of the acclaimed crime thriller The Wire in the Blood, praised it as "chilling." Erin Kelly, author of the psychological suspense novel He Said/She Said, praised it as "perfectly plotted, beautifully written modern Gothic." Mick Herron, author of the crime novel Slow Horses, described it as "beautifully crafted, smart and unsettling." Ruth Ware, author of the psychological thriller The Woman in Cabin 10, praised it as "a dark, mesmeric fever-dream of a book." Will Dean, author of the crime novel Red Snow, described it as "ingenious, original, and brilliant." Andrew Taylor, author of the historical crime novel The American Boy and The Ashes of London, praised it as "extraordinary." Steve Cavanagh, author of the crime novel Thirteen, described it as "a modern-day Highsmith." Eva Dolan, author of the psychological thriller Between Two Evils, praised it as "a truly outstanding work of modern Gothic." Sharon Bolton, author of the psychological suspense novel The Split, praised it as "a beautifully written modern Gothic masterpiece." Lucy Atkins, author of the psychological suspense novel Magpie Lane, praised it as "so elegant, so restrained."

In conclusion, Fragile is a must-read for fans of modern gothic literature and psychological suspense. With its captivating plot, well-developed characters, and atmospheric writing, it offers a fresh and intriguing take on the classic Rebecca. Written by the talented Sarah Hilary, this novel is a testament to her skill as a storyteller and her ability to create a sense of unease and tension that keeps readers hooked until the very end. Whether you are a fan of gothic horror or simply looking for a gripping and suspenseful read, Fragile is a book that you will not want to miss.

Weight: 264g
Dimension: 134 x 196 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529029468