The Driver's Seat
The Driver's Seat
Book Brief
180
Novella • Fiction
Southern Europe • 1970s
1970
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Muriel Spark’s novel The Driver's Seat, Lise embarks on a trip with the intention of finding her "right one." She purchases colorful, clashing clothes and acts erratically, meeting various people, including Bill, who proposes to her, and Mrs. Fiedke, who discusses men with her. Ultimately, Lise identifies Richard as the "right one," and after meeting him again, the story concludes with Lise's fate sealed through her own orchestration. Explicit violence occurs.
Unnerving
Mysterious
Dark
Suspenseful
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
10,988 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Muriel Spark's The Driver's Seat captivates with its dark psychological depth and unconventional structure. Critics praise Spark's brisk narrative and sharp wit, but some find its abrupt, detached style off-putting. Lise's enigmatic character polarizes readers, compelling yet perplexing, making the novella both a fascinating and disconcerting read.
Who Should Read The Driver's Seat?
A reader who enjoys psychological thrillers with an existential twist would find The Driver's Seat by Muriel Spark captivating. Fans of works like Patricia Highsmith’s The Talented Mr. Ripley or Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca will appreciate the novel's exploration of identity and fate. This book appeals to those who relish character-driven, intense narratives.
10,988 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Driver's Seat was adapted into a film in 1974, starring Elizabeth Taylor, and it also features Andy Warhol in a small role.
The novella was first published in 1970 and marked a departure for Muriel Spark as it was one of her first forays into psychological thrillers.
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Muriel Spark reportedly wrote The Driver's Seat in just a matter of weeks, demonstrating her ability to craft compelling narratives quickly and efficiently.
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180
Novella • Fiction
Southern Europe • 1970s
1970
Adult
18+ years
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