Book Review: "Girls in the Dark"
That girl is dead.
The president of the Literature Club, Shiraishi Itsumi, is dead.
In her hand was a lily flower.
Murder? Suicide?
No one knew.
One of the six girls in the Literature Club was rumored to be the murderer of the charismatic beauty.
A week later, the Literature Club held a meeting. They wanted to commemorate their former president with a short story, but as it turned out, the short story was their own analysis of who the real killer was. The six girls took turns reading their analysis, but....
You... ever thought about killing someone?
Review
Girls in the dark by Akiyoshi Rikako. For those of you who like mystery and thriller genre novels, I highly recommend this novel for you. This novel successfully made me suspicious of all the characters. Because all of them have the potential to become villains.
The novel centers on a literature club at an elite all-girls school called Santa Maria academy. The club is led by Itsumi Shiraishi, a girl who is graceful, intelligent and highly respected by the other members.
However, the story begins with tragedy: Itsumi was found dead with a Lily flower in her hand. No one knew whether it was a murder or a suicide. To commemorate her death, the club members held a meeting. During the meeting, each member tells a story that reveals their relationship with Itsumi.
As the narrative unfolds, it is revealed that behind the admiration for Itsumi, there is hatred, envy, and dark secrets hidden among the club members. Who exactly was Itsumi? And was her death really a suicide or did someone kill her?
Book Advantages
1. Unique Storytelling Format
The novel uses alternating points of view from each member of the literature club, providing different insights into Itsumi's characters and their relationships with her. This style makes the reader have to think critically to piece together the sometimes-conflicting pieces of information.
2. Layered Characterization
Each character in this novel has a dark side that is slowly revealed. The author portrays complex human nature, especially how jealousy, ambition, and dissatisfaction can affect relationships between individuals.
Book Disadvantages
1. Slow Narration in the Beginning
Some readers may feel that the storyline at the beginning is slow, as it focuses on deepening the characters through the point of view of each club member
2. Itsumi's Character is Too Idealized
Most of the club members describe Itsumi as perfect. This makes Itsumi's characterization feel less realistic until the twist is revealed.
Themes and Messages
1. Friendship and Betrayal
The novel explores the complex relationships among literary club members, where admiration is often accompanied by jealousy and insecurity.
2. Relative Truth
Through different points of view, readers are invited to see how each individual has his or her own version of the truth.
3. Ambition and Power
The novel also reveals the dark side of ambition and how power can affect social relationships.
Conclusion
"Girls in the Dark" is a mystery novel that not only offers a puzzle about Itsumi's death, but also depicts the dark side of human relationships. With a clever narrative and unexpected plot twists, this novel provides an immersive and memorable reading experience.
Rating: 4,5/5
Are you ready to dive into the mysterious world of these girls? If so, make sure you read to the end, as the truth often hides in the most unexpected places.
Discussion:
What did you think of this novel? Did you manage to guess who was behind all the mysterious events? Share your thoughts in the comment section!
