3.71
"The Parasites" by Daphne du Maurier is a psychological exploration of the complex relationships between three siblings and their struggle for independence and identity. The novel, published in 1949, follows the lives of Niall, Celia, and Maria, who have been raised by their actress mother and have never known their father. The three siblings are deeply connected, and their relationships are characterized by a complex web of dependence, competition, and love. Niall, the eldest, is a successful playwright who feels a deep sense of responsibility for his siblings. Celia, the middle child, is a talented musician who struggles to find her own voice and identity. Maria, the youngest, is a beautiful and manipulative woman who uses her charm to get what she wants. As the siblings navigate their careers and personal lives, they are forced to confront the parasitic nature of their relationships. They must learn to break free from each other and establish their own identities, or risk being consumed by their dependence on one another. Du Maurier's writing is masterful, and she skillfully explores the complexities of sibling relationships and the human psyche. The novel is a rich and nuanced portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of the human spirit, and it is sure to resonate with readers who have ever questioned their place in the world or their relationships with those closest to them. Overall, "The Parasites" is a thought-provoking and engaging novel that is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers. It is a must-read for fans of du Maurier's work, as well as for anyone interested in psychological fiction or the dynamics of family relationships...
Daphne du Maurier
Rebecca
If you enjoyed the psychological tension and atmospheric writing in 'The Parasites', you may like Du Maurier's most famous work, 'Rebecca'. A young woman marries a wealthy widower and moves into his estate, only to be haunted by the memory of his first wife, Rebecca.
Learn MoreDaphne du Maurier
My Cousin Rachel
Another classic from Du Maurier, 'My Cousin Rachel' tells the story of a young man who becomes infatuated with his cousin, only to suspect her of murdering his benefactor. Like 'The Parasites', it explores themes of suspicion, obsession, and family dynamics.
Learn MoreDonna Tartt
The Secret History
Fans of 'The Parasites' who enjoy stories about dysfunctional groups of people may enjoy Donna Tartt's 'The Secret History'. A group of classics students at a small college become obsessed with recreating ancient Greek rituals, with disastrous consequences.
Learn MoreLaura Purcell
The Silent Companions
If you enjoyed the gothic atmosphere of 'The Parasites', you may like 'The Silent Companions' by Laura Purcell. A young widow moves into her husband's estate and begins to experience strange occurrences, including the appearance of painted wooden figures that seem to move on their own.
Learn MoreWilkie Collins
The Woman in White
'The Woman in White' is a classic mystery novel that explores themes of identity, insanity, and deception. Like 'The Parasites', it features a complex plot with multiple narrators, and keeps the reader guessing until the very end.
Learn MoreShirley Jackson
The Haunting of Hill House
'The Haunting of Hill House' is a classic horror novel that explores the psychological effects of living in a haunted house. If you enjoyed the eerie atmosphere and complex characters in 'The Parasites', you may enjoy this chilling tale.
Learn MoreShirley Jackson
We Have Always Lived in the Castle
Another classic from Shirley Jackson, 'We Have Always Lived in the Castle' tells the story of two sisters who live in isolation after their family is poisoned. Like 'The Parasites', it explores themes of family dynamics, suspicion, and isolation.
Learn MoreHenry James
The Turn of the Screw
'The Turn of the Screw' is a classic ghost story that explores the psychological breakdown of a governess who believes her charges are being haunted. If you enjoyed the psychological tension in 'The Parasites', you may enjoy this chilling tale.
Learn MoreOscar Wilde
The Picture of Dorian Gray
'The Picture of Dorian Gray' is a classic novel that explores themes of beauty, morality, and the corrupting influence of art. If you enjoyed the complex characters and themes in 'The Parasites', you may enjoy this thought-provoking novel.
Learn MoreTana French
The Likeness
Fans of 'The Parasites' who enjoy stories about identity and deception may enjoy 'The Likeness' by Tana French. A detective goes undercover as a woman who bears a striking resemblance to a murder victim, only to become entangled in the victim's complex web of relationships and secrets.
Learn MoreSarah Perry
The Essex Serpent
If you enjoyed the gothic atmosphere and exploration of social class in 'The Parasites', you may enjoy 'The Essex Serpent' by Sarah Perry. Set in Victorian England, it tells the story of a widow who moves to a small village and becomes embroiled in the search for a mythical sea creature.
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