**THE INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER**Alex Michaelidess long-awaited next novel, 'The Maidens,' is finally here...the premise is enticing and the elements irresistible. ―The New York TimesA deliciously dark, elegant, utterly compulsive read―with a twist that blew my mind. I loved this even more than I loved The Silent Patient and that's saying something!―Lucy Foley, New York Times bestselling author of The Guest ListFrom the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Silent Patient comes a spellbinding tale of psychological suspense, weaving together Greek mythology, murder, and obsession, that further cements “Michaelides as a major player in the field” (Publishers Weekly).Edward Fosca is a murderer. Of this Mariana is certain. But Fosca is untouchable. A handsome and charismatic Greek tragedy professor at Cambridge University, Fosca is adored by staff and students alike―particularly by the members of a secret society of female students known as The Maidens.Mariana Andros is a brilliant but troubled group therapist who becomes fixated on The Maidens when one member, a friend of Marianas niece Zoe, is found murdered in Cambridge.Mariana, who was once herself a student at the university, quickly suspects that behind the idyllic beauty of the spires and turrets, and beneath the ancient traditions, lies something sinister. And she becomes convinced that, despite his alibi, Edward Fosca is guilty of the murder. But why would the professor target one of his students? And why does he keep returning to the rites of Persephone, the maiden, and her journey to the underworld?When another body is found, Marianas obsession with proving Foscas guilt spirals out of control, threatening to destroy her credibility as well as her closest relationships. But Mariana is determined to stop this killer, even if it costs her everything―including her own life.
In a world of academia and intrigue, "The Maidens" by Alex Michaelides weaves a gripping tale of murder, secrets, and the dark side of human nature.
Mariana Andros, a Cambridge undergraduate, finds herself drawn into a web of suspicion and danger after a series of murders rock her prestigious college. When a fellow student is found dead, Mariana becomes entangled in a twisted game of cat and mouse with Edward Fosca, the charismatic yet enigmatic professor of Greek tragedy.
As Mariana delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers a hidden world of jealousy, betrayal, and forbidden love. She soon realizes that the idyllic facade of Cambridge hides a sinister underbelly, where the pursuit of knowledge and ambition can lead to devastating consequences.
With each twist and turn, Mariana finds herself questioning everything she thought she knew about those around her. The line between truth and illusion blurs as she navigates a labyrinth of secrets, uncovering the dark pasts and hidden motives of those closest to her.
"The Maidens" is a gripping psychological thriller that explores the complexities of human nature, the intoxicating power of love and obsession, and the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition. As Mariana races against time to uncover the truth, she must confront her own inner demons and embrace her strength in the face of danger.
Alex Michaelides's masterful storytelling and intricate plotting will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page. "The Maidens" is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers, suspenseful mysteries, and stories that delve into the darkest recesses of the human mind.
