Some books draw you in so quickly that you experience a thrill along with a sense of dismay - you know you'll struggle to pace yourself instead of devouring it in one sitting. A book that, despite its heft, you tote with you wherever you go just to sneak in a few more pages. One of those books that, you realize with sadness, you will never again experience for the first time.
Gone Girl is that kind of book. I lost the battle with myself to enjoy it over a week and was done in less than two days. I just learned that Reese Witherspoon's production company is going to do a film version with Witherspoon herself as Amy, the "gone girl" of the title. It takes the edge off, but only slightly, of reading that last page. I can't wait to see how the story translates to the screen.
Author Gillian Flynn has been compared to Patricia Highsmith (Strangers on a Train, The Talented Mr. Ripley series) and I think this is accurate. Gone Girl has psychological tension, very dark humor, and a sophisticated story line which provides serious food for thought for those who are married, have been married, have contemplated marriage, or have ever been in a relationship. So, pretty much everyone. Even if you think you know your partner better than you know yourself, surprises await. Just hope that they're not the "Nick and Amy" kind.
