55 pages • 1 hour read
Paula McLainWhen the Stars Go Dark
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In When the Stars Go Dark by Paula McLain, San Francisco detective Anna Hart returns to her childhood home in Mendocino to grapple with the accidental death of her daughter but gets entangled in the investigation of multiple missing girls, prompting her to confront past traumas and uncovering a potential serial killer linked to her own high school friend's unresolved murder. The novel includes themes of sexual abuse, trauma, and murder.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
When the Stars Go Dark by Paula McLain has received mixed reviews. Critics praise its captivating mystery and in-depth character development, but some find the pacing slow and the multiple timelines confusing. The novel's exploration of trauma and healing resonates strongly, but the blending of real events with fiction might not appeal to all readers.
Who Should Read When the Stars Go Dark?
Readers who enjoy gripping psychological thrillers and character-driven narratives like Paula Hawkins' The Girl on the Train or Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl will be captivated by Paula McLain's When the Stars Go Dark. With its blend of mystery, emotional depth, and intricate storytelling, it’s perfect for those seeking a compelling and evocative read.