Hidden Bodies by Caroline Kepnes delivers a dark and gripping sequel to You, blending psychological thriller elements with sharp, witty prose. While praised for its compelling plot and unique voice, some critics felt the narrative occasionally faltered with pacing issues and less relatable characters. Nevertheless, it's a worthy read for fans of the genre.

Fans of psychological thrillers and dark, twisted romances will relish Hidden Bodies by Caroline Kepnes. Perfect for readers who enjoyed Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn or The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins, its gripping narrative and complex, morally ambiguous protagonist draw audiences seeking suspense and depth.

In Hidden Bodies by Caroline Kepnes, Joe Goldberg, a serial killer from New York City, follows a manipulative thief named Amy to Los Angeles with the intent to kill her. While searching for Amy, Joe becomes entangled in several relationships and complex situations, including a romance with producer Love Quinn. Balancing new connections, dark secrets, and violent tendencies, Joe navigates a treacherous path of emotional manipulation, deception, and murder. This novel depicts intimate partner violence, emotional abuse, and substance use disorder.

Dark / Mysterious / Unnerving / Suspenseful / Gritty

- Hidden Bodies is the sequel to Caroline Kepnes' debut novel, You, which gained significant popularity and was later adapted into a Netflix series.
- The book continues to explore themes of obsession and identity in the digital age, delving deeper into the protagonist Joe Goldberg’s psyche.
- Caroline Kepnes has mentioned in interviews that she draws inspiration from her own experiences and observations while living in Los Angeles, which serves as the setting for significant portions of Hidden Bodies.

**Joe Goldberg**  
The narrator of the story, whose internal struggles and critiques of modern life contribute to his complex, if unsettling, character. He navigates relationships and personal growth amidst a secretive past.

**Amy Adam**  
Joe’s rebound relationship following Beck, who is characterized as a cunning figure with her own secrets and opportunistic tendencies. Her interactions with Joe spur moments of introspection for him.

**Love Quinn**  
A movie producer and Joe’s new love interest, who exhibits compassion and challenges Joe's perception of acceptance. Her unique understanding of Joe becomes central to their relationship.

**Forty Quinn**  
Love's brother, known for his self-destructive tendencies and Hollywood ambitions, adding tension to Joe's life. His complex relationship with his family highlights deeper emotional struggles.

Caroline Kepnes

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Hidden Bodies reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Hidden Bodies | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Hidden Bodies and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Hidden Bodies Summary and Study Guide

Background

Hidden Bodies Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-5

Hidden Bodies Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-10

Hidden Bodies Chapters 6-10 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 11-15

Hidden Bodies Chapters 11-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 16-20

Hidden Bodies Chapters 16-20 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-25

Hidden Bodies Chapters 21-25 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 26-30

Hidden Bodies Chapters 26-30 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 31-35

Hidden Bodies Chapters 31-35 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 36-40

Hidden Bodies Chapters 36-40 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 41-45

Hidden Bodies Chapters 41-45 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 46-50

Hidden Bodies Chapters 46-50 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 51-56 

Hidden Bodies Chapters 51-56  Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Hidden Bodies Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Hidden Bodies Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Hidden Bodies Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Hidden Bodies Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Hidden Bodies Essay Topics

Hidden Bodies

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Hidden Bodies?

Reading Age

Book Details