Discover books similar to "The Collector"
John Fowles
The Collector
3.98
"The Collector" by John Fowles is a psychological thriller that explores the darker side of human nature. The novel tells the story of Frederick Clegg, a socially awkward and lonely young man who becomes infatuated with Miranda Grey, an art student and upper-class woman. After winning the lottery, Clegg uses his newfound wealth to purchase a remote English farmhouse, where he plans to keep Miranda captive as his "collector's item." The novel is divided into three parts, each told from the perspective of either Clegg or Miranda. This narrative structure allows the reader to gain insight into the thoughts and motivations of both characters, creating a complex and nuanced portrayal of their relationship. Clegg's sections are written in the form of a diary, revealing his obsession with Miranda and his justifications for keeping her captive. Miranda's sections, on the other hand, convey her desperation to escape and her growing understanding of Clegg's mental state. Fowles' writing style is both precise and evocative, creating a sense of tension and unease that permeates the novel. He explores themes of power, class, and gender, highlighting the ways in which societal structures can shape and limit individual agency. The novel also raises questions about the nature of obsession and the boundaries between love and possession. "The Collector" is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that challenges the reader to confront their own assumptions about identity, power, and the human condition. It is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and those interested in exploring the darker aspects of human nature...
List of books similar to "The Collector":
J.G. Ballard
The Drowned World
If you enjoyed the dystopian and psychological elements of 'The Collector', you might like 'The Drowned World' by J.G. Ballard. This novel takes place in a flooded, post-apocalyptic London, where the protagonist, Dr. Robert Kerans, must confront his own primal desires and the collapse of civilization. Both books explore the darker side of human nature and the consequences of isolation.
Learn More
Laura Purcell
The Silent Companions
Fans of 'The Collector' who enjoy gothic and psychological horror will appreciate 'The Silent Companions' by Laura Purcell. The story revolves around a young widow who moves into her husband's ancestral home, only to discover a series of eerie painted wooden figures that seem to hold a sinister influence over the inhabitants. The unsettling atmosphere and exploration of obsession are reminiscent of Fowles' work.
Learn More
Daphne du Maurier
Rebecca
For readers who were captivated by the power dynamics and suspense in 'The Collector', 'Rebecca' by Daphne du Maurier is a must-read. The novel follows a young woman who marries a wealthy widower and moves into his estate, where the memory of his first wife, Rebecca, still looms large. The psychological tension and exploration of identity make this a great match for Fowles' novel.
Learn More
Oscar Wilde
The Picture of Dorian Gray
If you were intrigued by the themes of obsession and the corrupting influence of beauty in 'The Collector', you may enjoy 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' by Oscar Wilde. This classic novel explores the moral decay of a young man who remains youthful and handsome while his portrait ages and reflects his sins. Both books delve into the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of vanity.
Learn More
Shirley Jackson
The Haunting of Hill House
Readers who appreciated the haunting atmosphere and psychological tension in 'The Collector' will find 'The Haunting of Hill House' by Shirley Jackson to be a satisfying read. A group of investigators gathers at a notoriously haunted house, where they experience increasingly disturbing supernatural events. The exploration of fear and the blurring of reality make this a great choice for fans of Fowles' work.
Learn More
Iain Banks
The Wasp Factory
For those who enjoyed the unsettling and introspective nature of 'The Collector', 'The Wasp Factory' by Iain Banks is a compelling option. The novel follows a young man named Frank as he recounts his troubled past and the dark secrets of his family's estate. Both books delve into the minds of deeply disturbed protagonists and explore themes of violence and isolation.
Learn More
Donna Tartt
The Secret History
If you were drawn to the exploration of class, privilege, and obsession in 'The Collector', 'The Secret History' by Donna Tartt is an excellent choice. The novel tells the story of a group of classics students at an elite college who become embroiled in a murder plot. The character-driven narrative and focus on the darker aspects of human nature make this a strong recommendation.
Learn More
Patricia Highsmith
The Talented Mr. Ripley
Readers who enjoyed the themes of obsession, class, and identity in 'The Collector' will appreciate 'The Talented Mr. Ripley' by Patricia Highsmith. The novel follows a young man named Tom Ripley as he becomes increasingly obsessed with a wealthy acquaintance, leading to a series of dangerous and morally ambiguous decisions. Both books explore the consequences of obsession and the allure of wealth and privilege.
Learn More
Lionel Shriver
We Need to Talk About Kevin
For those who found the exploration of obsession and the darker aspects of human nature in 'The Collector' thought-provoking, 'We Need to Talk About Kevin' by Lionel Shriver is a powerful read. The novel is written as a series of letters from a mother to her estranged husband, reflecting on their son's violent behavior and her own role in his development. Both books delve into the complexities of human nature and the consequences of obsession.
Learn More
Cormac McCarthy
The Road
Readers who were intrigued by the dystopian elements and the exploration of human nature in 'The Collector' will find 'The Road' by Cormac McCarthy to be a powerful read. The novel follows a father and son as they journey through a post-apocalyptic world, struggling to maintain their humanity amidst the devastation. Both books examine the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of societal collapse.
Learn More
© All rights reserved.