“The Golden Cage“ by Camilla Läckberg

love, hate, revenge

⚜️“En bur av guld” (in Bulgarian: *“Златната клетка” / “The Golden Cage”) might not have been the best choice for a first encounter with Camilla Läckberg, since it is described as somewhat different from the author’s usual style. Genre-wise, it is categorized as a thriller, but to me it doesn’t possess many characteristics that truly bring it close to one. It contains (both in number and in intensity) intimate scenes, and I think it could easily be given an 18+ label.

⚜️Although the plot itself isn’t exactly my type, I actually enjoyed the story quite a lot. Camilla Läckberg writes in a very captivating way, and the scenes somehow materialize before your eyes. What surprised me was the intensity of the secondary plotline about Chris (the main character, Faye’s, best friend). It is deeply moving on an emotional level. And the extent of manipulation Faye reaches is downright chilling… Yet, it was fascinating to follow her thought patterns.

⚜️The novel is the beginning, the end, and everything in between of a feminist revenge directed at, pardon my words, a despicable man. The feminist element is very strong, which won’t appeal to everyone. BUT I think the character of the aforementioned man is unpleasant enough to balance out these two energies.

⚜️I definitely want to continue with the next book (at least). And that makes it clear that I really liked this one.