Die a Little (novel)

Die a Little is a psychological thriller novel written by Megan Abbott, published in 2005. The story is set in 1950s California and revolves around Lora King, a schoolteacher, and her brother, Bill, a police detective.

The novel's central conflict arises from Bill's marriage to Alice Steele, a beautiful and enigmatic woman with a shadowy past. Lora becomes increasingly suspicious of Alice and her potential involvement in a series of crimes and disappearances.

Die a Little explores themes of obsession, family secrets, gender roles in the 1950s, and the dark underbelly of seemingly idyllic suburban life. Abbott's writing style is characterized by its atmospheric prose, intricate plotting, and exploration of complex characters with morally ambiguous motivations.

The novel is known for its noir sensibilities, drawing heavily from classic crime fiction and film noir tropes. It features elements of mystery, suspense, and psychological intrigue as Lora attempts to uncover the truth about Alice and protect her brother from potential danger. Die a Little received critical acclaim for its compelling narrative and its ability to evoke the atmosphere of mid-century America.