Author: Lauren Beukes
Publisher: Mulholland Books
Genre: Thriller, Science Fiction
Year of Publication: 2014
Date of Publication: January 14, 2014
Pages: 400
ISBN-10: 9780316216869
ISBN-13: 978-0316216869
Summary
The Shining Girls follows Kirby, a young woman who survives an attack by a time-traveling serial killer.
She sets out to track down her would-be murderer, uncovering a deadly pattern spanning multiple decades.
Main Plot & Characters
The story follows Kirby Mazrachi and Harper Curtis, a time-traveling killer who hunts “shining” girls—women with a unique spark—across different eras.
Harper, originating from the Great Depression era, discovers a way to travel through time, targeting these extraordinary women.
He calls them “shining girls” because he senses something special about them that sets them apart.
Kirby, a determined and resilient woman, survives Harper’s brutal attack.
While working at a newspaper, Kirby begins to investigate her would-be killer, uncovering disturbing truths that transcend time and logic.
Key Themes of The Shining Girls
- Fate and Free Will: The novel explores how fate and choice influence lives, even across time.
- Violence Against Women: Through Kirby’s story, it addresses societal issues surrounding violence and survival.
- Time and Mortality: The concept of time travel deepens the novel’s exploration of life, death, and purpose.
- Survivor’s Resilience: Kirby’s resilience highlights the strength of survivors in the face of horror.
Writing Style
Beukes crafts a story that straddles the line between thriller, science fiction, and horror.
Her writing creates a haunting and fast-paced experience, keeping readers on edge as the story unfolds.
Using time jumps, Beukes builds suspense and adds tension to the story.
Impact of The Shining Girls
The Shining Girls has gained acclaim for its unique blend of thriller and sci-fi elements.
The book has been adapted into a thriller TV series starring Elisabeth Moss.
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