In many ways I enjoyed this book more than "The Talented Mr Ripley". I guess it's because Highsmith is more accomplished as a writer but I suspect it's because it's set in France and Ripley spends a wonderfully privileged life gardening, eating, and reading. It's true escapism married with murder/thriller.I am most impressed by the fact I was conned into sympathising with Ripley, a total psychopath, to the point where I did not want him caught. He seems so benign, he rationalises everything so calmly, even his nervous periods just make him a little sweaty and sees him manage it in some tremendously civilised way, very good wine, a hot bath, a classic book in the original French.My only bugbear was he is seems so obviously guilty. There are clues everywhere, he even admits to being around every person who dies. I did have to suspend my belief more and more towards the end. I still recommend the Ripley books as enjoyable and light reads. The second in the Ripley series was a bit of a slower read for me, perhaps it had more to do with what was going on in my life than the actual book. Patricia Highsmith's writing style pulls the reader into the mind and motives of Tom Ripley. I found myself anxious that he not get caught yet slightly disturbed by his thought process. I read, "The Talented Mr. Ripley" for my book group. It was a group favorite.
What do You think about Azul Cobalto (1970)?
not loving this Ripley novel quite as much as the first... but what a fascinating shady dude
—Rajshree
I read the trilogy over vacation, and this was my favorite of the three.
—book
Didn't enjoy it as much as The Talented Mr Ripley, but still enjoyable.
—CeCe
The second in the Ripley saga - more bodies and more deceit.....
—MikesWife
