If you are a fan of thriller novels, then you have most likely come across “The Shining Girls” by Lauren Beukes, or “Monarch” by Lars Emmerich. These two novels are considered some of the best thrillers of their time, and their authors have carved out a name for themselves in the thriller genre. In this article, we will delve deep into these two novels, examining their authors, plots, characters, settings, writing styles, themes, critical reception, and reader reviews. By the end of the article, we will give our verdict on which book you should pick up next.
Introducing the Authors
Lauren Beukes is a South African novelist, TV writer, and documentary maker. She has won numerous awards for her novels, including the prestigious Arthur C. Clarke Award, the Strand Critics Award, and the University of Johannesburg Prize. Beukes is known for her vivid imagination, feminist themes, and unique storytelling style. In contrast, Lars Emmerich is a German-American author and filmmaker. He is best known for his bestselling espionage thrillers, which are fast-paced, action-packed, and full of political intrigue. Emmerich’s writing is clean, concise, and unapologetically patriotic.
Despite their differences in style and background, Beukes and Emmerich share a passion for storytelling that has led them both to great success in their respective fields. Beukes has also worked as a journalist and has written for publications such as The New York Times, The Guardian, and The Wall Street Journal. Emmerich, on the other hand, has directed and produced several films, including the award-winning documentary, “The Second Russian Revolution.” Despite their varied experiences, both authors continue to captivate readers with their unique perspectives and gripping narratives.
Unpacking the Plot
“The Shining Girls” is a time-traveling thriller that follows the story of a serial killer who can travel through time. He targets young women who he believes shine brighter than others. One of his victims, Kirby Mizrachi, survives and tries to track down her attacker with the help of a burned-out journalist named Dan Velasquez. The novel is set in Chicago in the early ’90s and incorporates elements of science fiction, mystery, and horror. On the other hand, “Monarch” is a political thriller that revolves around a conspiracy to kill the president of the United States. The protagonist, Zach Miller, a former CIA agent, is pulled out of retirement to stop the assassination. The novel takes place in Washington, D.C., and Mexico City and is full of twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats.
In “The Shining Girls,” the time-traveling aspect of the story adds a unique twist to the typical thriller genre. The killer’s ability to move through time creates a sense of unpredictability and raises the stakes for the characters. Additionally, the novel explores themes of power and control, as the killer seeks out women who he perceives as having a special quality that he wants to possess.
Meanwhile, “Monarch” delves into the world of politics and espionage, with a complex web of characters and motives. The novel’s setting in Washington, D.C., adds to the sense of intrigue and danger, as the characters navigate the corridors of power and try to uncover the truth behind the assassination plot. The protagonist, Zach Miller, is a flawed but determined hero who must confront his own demons as he races against time to save the president.
Character Analysis
“The Shining Girls” features a diverse cast of characters, including the killer, Harper Curtis, and his victims. However, the two main characters are Kirby Mizrachi and Dan Velasquez. Kirby is a survivor who refuses to be a victim, and Dan is a disillusioned journalist who gets swept up in Kirby’s quest for justice. In “Monarch,” Zach Miller is the central character, and the reader sees the story mostly through his eyes. Miller is a flawed hero, struggling with guilt and PTSD, but he is also determined to do the right thing. The novel also features a host of supporting characters, including the president, the first lady, and a cast of CIA operatives.
Aside from the main characters, “The Shining Girls” also introduces a number of interesting and complex victims of Harper Curtis. Each victim has their own unique story and personality, making their deaths all the more tragic. Through their stories, the novel explores themes of power, control, and the devastating effects of violence.
Meanwhile, in “Monarch,” the supporting characters play a crucial role in the story’s political intrigue. The president and his team of CIA operatives are constantly working behind the scenes to maintain their power and influence, while the first lady struggles to find her place in the political landscape. These characters add depth and complexity to the novel’s themes of corruption and power struggles.
Setting the Scene
The settings of both novels are integral to their stories. “The Shining Girls” is set in Chicago during the early ’90s, a time of economic recession and social upheaval. Beukes captures the gritty reality of the city, as well as its vibrant street culture, and juxtaposes it with the surreal elements of time travel. In “Monarch,” Emmerich takes the reader to Washington, D.C., the epicenter of American politics, as well as to Mexico City, where the bulk of the action takes place. The novel is grounded in the political realities of the time, including drug cartels, corruption, and the shadowy world of espionage.
In “The Shining Girls,” Beukes also explores the theme of gender inequality and violence against women, which was prevalent during the time period. The protagonist, Kirby, is a survivor of a brutal attack, and her determination to catch her attacker and bring him to justice is a powerful commentary on the societal attitudes towards victims of violence.
Meanwhile, in “Monarch,” Emmerich delves into the complex relationships between the United States and Mexico, and the impact of American policies on its southern neighbor. The novel also touches on the issue of immigration, as one of the main characters is an undocumented immigrant who is caught up in the dangerous world of drug trafficking.
Narrative Techniques
Both authors have their unique styles of writing. Beukes’s writing is poetic, lyrical, and full of sensory details. Her use of language adds depth to her characters and brings the story to life. Emmerich, on the other hand, is more straightforward, with a focus on action and plot. His writing is cinematic and reads like a movie script. However, both authors are skilled at building tension and keeping readers engaged throughout the novel.
Themes Explored
Both “The Shining Girls” and “Monarch” explore themes that are relevant to the world we live in today. Beukes’s novel tackles issues such as sexism, violence against women, and the dangers of toxic masculinity. Emmerich’s book looks at topics such as political corruption, the war on drugs, and the moral ambiguity of espionage. Despite their disparate themes, both novels share a common thread of human nature and the darkest aspects of the human condition.
Critical Reception
Both novels have garnered critical acclaim from the literary community. “The Shining Girls” has been praised for its originality and dark, unsettling tone. Reviewers have described the novel as “a tour de force of imagination” and “a harrowing exploration of violence and its effects on society.” “Monarch” has also received positive reviews, with many critics noting its fast-paced plot, engaging characters, and timely themes. Reviewers have called the novel “a thrilling rollercoaster ride” and “a gripping page-turner.”
Reader Reviews
Furthermore, readers have showered both novels with praise. “The Shining Girls” has an average rating of 3.7 out of 5 on Goodreads, with many readers citing the novel’s unique concept and Beukes’s writing style as highlights. “Monarch” has a rating of 4 out of 5 on Amazon, with readers raving about Emmerich’s action-packed story and the character of Zach Miller.
Which One Should You Read?
When it comes down to it, both “The Shining Girls” and “Monarch” are excellent choices for fans of the thriller genre. It all depends on what you are looking for in a book. If you want a time-traveling thriller with feminist themes and poetic language, then “The Shining Girls” is the book for you. If you prefer a political thriller with fast-paced action and a patriotic hero, then “Monarch” is the book for you. Whichever one you choose, you are sure to be entertained and thrilled.