The Wife Upstairs is a gripping novel by Rachel Hawkins that offers a fresh and modern retelling of the classic gothic novel Jane Eyre. Set in the wealthy suburb of Birmingham, Alabama, the story follows Jane, a young woman trying to rebuild her life after a tumultuous past. She meets Eddie Rochester, a wealthy widower with a complicated past, and they quickly become entangled in a dangerous and seductive game of love and deception.

One of the most impressive aspects of The Wife Upstairs is the masterful way in which Hawkins weaves together the various plot threads and characters to create a suspenseful and satisfying story. The novel is told from the perspectives of multiple characters, including Jane, Eddie, and his ex-wife Bea, which allows the reader to gain a deep understanding of each character’s motivations and secrets. The use of alternating perspectives also adds to the overall tension and sense of unease, as the reader is constantly questioning who to trust and what is going on.

Hawkins also excels in her character development, particularly with Jane, the protagonist. Despite her seemingly innocuous appearance, Jane is a complex and multi-faceted character, with a dark and tragic past that is gradually revealed throughout the story. Her motivations are constantly shifting, and it is never quite clear what she is truly after. This makes her a fascinating and unpredictable character to follow, and her interactions with Eddie and Bea are always compelling.

In addition to the strong character development, the setting of The Wife Upstairs is also expertly crafted. The wealthy suburb of Birmingham serves as a backdrop to the story, and the author uses the setting to comment on themes of class and social status. The contrast between the wealthy characters and Jane’s humble beginnings adds an additional layer of tension to the story and makes the eventual reveal of the characters’ true natures all the more satisfying.

Overall, The Wife Upstairs is a well-written and engaging novel that expertly blends elements of the gothic and thriller genres. With its complex characters, expert pacing, and masterful storytelling, this book is sure to leave readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. Whether you are a fan of gothic literature or simply enjoy a good psychological thriller, The Wife Upstairs is not to be missed.