When it comes to the world of thriller novels, readers are always on the lookout for books that keep them on the edge of their seat. Two such books that have garnered widespread attention recently are “I Found You” by Lisa Jewell and “Devolution” by Lars Emmerich. Both novels are gripping reads with well-developed characters, intricate plot lines, and themes that resonate with readers. In this article, we will be comparing these two novels on various aspects to help you decide which one is worth your time.
Plot Overview: I Found You – Lisa Jewell
I Found You is a psychological thriller that revolves around the disappearance of a man named Colin in a small seaside town. Alice, a single mother, finds him wandering on the beach without any memory of who he is. Meanwhile, in London, a family reports their husband/father missing. The mystery unfolds as the two storylines intersect, and the truth is gradually revealed.
The novel also explores themes of identity, memory, and the impact of trauma on the human psyche. As Colin struggles to piece together his past, Alice grapples with her own personal demons and the challenges of raising her children alone. The London family, on the other hand, must confront the possibility that their missing loved one may not be who they thought he was. With its complex characters and intricate plot, I Found You is a gripping read that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Plot Overview: “Devolution” by Lars Emmerich
In “Devolution”, a group of VIPs and a team of scientists are on a plane when a catastrophic event occurs, leaving them stranded in the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest. As they struggle to survive, they discover that they are not alone and are being hunted by an unknown predator which may or may not be supernatural. Their fight for survival becomes increasingly desperate as they try to unravel the mystery before it’s too late.
Character Analysis: I Found You – Lisa Jewell
I Found You features a range of characters each with their own story to tell. The protagonist of the novel is Alice, a woman struggling to come to terms with her past, present, and future. The enigmatic Colin is also a central figure, prone to memory loss, and with a more complicated backstory that is revealed in the latter half of the book. There are various supporting characters as well that add depth to the plot, each with their own secrets and motivations.
Character Analysis: “Devolution” by Lars Emmerich
The characters of “Devolution” are just as well developed, although they are a smaller cast due to the very nature of the plot. The protagonist is Kate, a journalist and a member of the VIP group. She is a strong-willed and resourceful woman who struggles to keep everyone alive. The other characters are a mix of scientists, businesspeople, and politicians, each with their own skills and expertise.
Writing Style and Techniques: I Found You – Lisa Jewell
Lisa Jewell’s writing style is descriptive and atmospheric, painting a vivid picture of the seaside town and the characters’ emotional states. She creates a sense of tension and mystery, making the reader want to turn the page to find out what happens next. The plot is intricate but never confusing, with a satisfying resolution that ties up all loose ends.
Writing Style and Techniques: “Devolution” by Lars Emmerich
Lars Emmerich’s writing style is also descriptive, but with a more action-oriented tone that suits the survival theme of the novel. There is a sense of urgency and danger throughout, with the characters facing constant threats from both the environment and the predator stalking them. The pace is fast, with the tension rising with each chapter and culminating in a thrilling climax that will leave readers breathless.
Themes Explored: I Found You – Lisa Jewell
I Found You explores themes of memory, identity, and the consequences of past actions. It delves into the idea of how one’s past can affect their present and future, and how one’s sense of self can be altered by traumatic events.
Themes Explored: “Devolution” by Lars Emmerich
The themes of “Devolution” revolve around the struggle for survival in adverse conditions, as well as the danger that arises when human beings step too far outside their natural environment. There are also sub-themes of power and control, as the VIPs grapple with their own fears and motivations.
Setting Comparison: I Found You – Lisa Jewell and “Devolution”
While both novels take place in fairly remote locations, the settings are vastly different. “I Found You” is set in a small seaside town in England, with the ocean and the beach providing the backdrop for the story. In contrast, “Devolution” takes place in the dense forests of the Pacific Northwest, where survival requires a completely different set of skills.
Suspense and Tension Building in I Found You – Lisa Jewell
Lisa Jewell’s expert use of suspense and tension is on full display in “I Found You”. She sets up the plot in a way that gradually reveals key pieces of information, keeping the reader guessing until the very end. The tension builds steadily throughout the novel, increasing with every twist and turn in the plot.
Suspense and Tension Building in “Devolution” by Lars Emmerich
Lars Emmerich sets the tone for suspense right from the beginning of “Devolution”, with the catastrophic event that leaves the characters stranded. The tension builds with each new discovery about the predator that is hunting them, leaving the readers on the edge of their seat wondering what will happen next.
The Impact of the Twist Ending in I Found You – Lisa Jewell
The twist ending of “I Found You” is masterfully done, tying together all the loose ends neatly and leaving the reader with a sense of satisfaction. It adds another layer of complexity to the story and forces the reader to re-examine everything they thought they knew about the characters and their motivations.
The Impact of the Twist Ending in “Devolution” by Lars Emmerich
The ending of “Devolution” is also surprising and unexpected, with a twist that will leave readers reeling. It’s a fitting conclusion to a novel that is full of surprises and will have readers thinking about it long after they’ve turned the last page.
Critical Reception and Reviews of I Found You – Lisa Jewell
“I Found You” has received positive reviews from both critics and readers, with many praising Lisa Jewell’s ability to create a page-turner with well-developed characters and a satisfying ending. The novel has been called “gripping”, “cleverly plotted”, and “compulsively readable”. It has also been nominated for several literary awards.
Critical Reception and Reviews of “Devolution” by Lars Emmerich
“Devolution” has also received positive reviews, with readers commending Lars Emmerich for his skill in creating a tense and thrilling survival story. Many have praised the novel for its fast pace, excellent character development, and unexpected twists. “Devolution” has also been nominated for several literary awards and is sure to appeal to fans of the genre.
Author Backgrounds and Influences: Lisa Jewell and Lars Emmerich
Lisa Jewell is a British author who has written over 16 novels and has sold millions of copies worldwide. Her writing is influenced by the mystery and thriller genres, with a focus on character development and emotional depth.
Lars Emmerich is an American author who has written several novels, mostly in the thriller and espionage genres. He draws inspiration from his experience as a political consultant and lobbyist, and his novels often tackle political and cultural issues.
Which Thriller Novel is Worth Your Time? A Comparison of I Found You – Lisa Jewell with Lars Emmerich’s “Devolution”
Both “I Found You” and “Devolution” are excellent examples of the thriller genre, with intriguing plots, well-developed characters, and themes that resonate with readers. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a more psychological mystery that leaves you guessing until the end, then “I Found You” is the one for you. However, if you are in the mood for an action-packed survival story with unexpected twists and turns, then “Devolution” is the clear winner. Regardless of which one you choose, both novels are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you thoroughly satisfied.