Duplicate Keys : Book Review

"Duplicate Keys" by Jane Smiley is a gripping psychological thriller that takes place in the picturesque town of Pomeroy. The story revolves around the lives of two young women, Alice Ellis and Cammy Rivers, who are inseparable. However, everything changes when Alice is brutally murdered, leaving Cammy devastated. Years later, Alice's daughter, DJ, returns to Pomeroy and finds herself entangled in a web of secrets and deceit surrounding her mother's death. Smiley skillfully weaves a complex tale of mystery, suspense, and the hidden darkness that lurks beneath the surface of a seemingly idyllic small town.

Smiley's mastery of storytelling shines through in "Duplicate Keys." The characters are well-developed and multifaceted, drawing readers into their complex and twisted lives. As the narrative unfolds, the layers of the mystery slowly unravel, keeping readers intrigued and engrossed. Smiley's attention to detail brings the setting of Pomeroy to life, adding depth to the story and enhancing the overall reading experience.

One of the most impactful aspects of the book is the exploration of friendship and the lasting effects of personal trauma. The bond between Alice and Cammy is portrayed with authenticity and tenderness, making the tragedy of Alice's death even more heart-wrenching. Smiley delves into the psychological aftermath of loss and how it shapes the lives of those left behind, highlighting the profound impacts of grief and trauma.

Another compelling element of "Duplicate Keys" is the examination of the dark underbelly of Pomeroy. The town, initially seen as charming and idyllic, is revealed to be hiding a multitude of secrets and hidden agendas. The murky motivations and seedy undercurrents add layers of complexity to the story, leaving readers guessing until the final pages.

Overall, "Duplicate Keys" is a captivating psychological thriller that showcases Jane Smiley's talent as a storyteller. With its well-defined characters, intricate plot, and nuanced exploration of friendship and trauma, this book will leave readers both satisfied and unsettled. Smiley's ability to create mystery and unease is masterful, making "Duplicate Keys" a must-read for fans of the genre.

What are readers saying?

The novel "Duplicate Keys" by Jane Smiley has received mixed reviews from readers. The story delves into the intricate relationships and concealed secrets of a group of friends who are confronted with a murder.

Some reviewers lauded Smiley's ability to capture the complexities of relationships through her writing style. They found the characters to be well-developed and relatable, appreciating the depth of emotion conveyed in the book. These readers particularly admired the way Smiley skillfully crafted a suspenseful and engaging narrative that held their attention until the very end.

On the other hand, some readers were disappointed with the pacing of the story. They felt that the plot took too long to unfold, leading them to struggle with maintaining interest. Additionally, a few reviewers expressed difficulty in connecting with or caring about the characters, which hindered their overall enjoyment of the book.

The dark and somber tone of "Duplicate Keys" was a point of contention for a number of reviewers. They found the themes and subject matter to be unsettling and occasionally disturbing. While this aspect brought intrigue for some readers, it deterred others who preferred more uplifting or lighthearted stories.

Furthermore, several reviewers criticized the lack of resolution in the ending. They felt that the loose ends were not sufficiently tied up, leaving them with unanswered questions and a feeling of dissatisfaction. The absence of closure left some readers unfulfilled and prevented them from fully appreciating the story.

DuplicateKeys Books MustReads