Leïla Slimani's The Perfect Nanny offers a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of domestic life and mental health. Critics praise its compelling narrative and rich character development. However, some find its pacing uneven and the ending abrupt. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read that leaves a lasting impact.

Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers and domestic dramas like The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins or Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty will be captivated by The Perfect Nanny by Leïla Slimani. This novel's exploration of both family dynamics and underlying societal issues will appeal to those who appreciate complex, character-driven narratives.

The Perfect Nanny by Leïla Slimani, inspired by true events, follows the story of Paul and Myriam Massé, who hire a seemingly ideal nanny named Louise to care for their children, Adam and Mila. Over time, tensions related to class and personal issues emerge, culminating in the shocking murder of the children by Louise. The book explores themes of racism, classism, and sexism. This book depicts violence, including murder and child abuse.

Dark / Unnerving / Mysterious / Suspenseful / Contemplative

- The Perfect Nanny by Leïla Slimani won the prestigious Prix Goncourt in 2016, making her the first Moroccan woman to win France's top literary prize.
- The story is inspired by a real-life incident involving a New York City nanny, showcasing Slimani's interest in captivating yet chilling narratives.
- Known as Chanson Douce in its original French, the novel explores complex themes of motherhood, cultural tensions, and power dynamics, earning critical acclaim internationally.

**Louise**  
The nanny hired by the Massé family to care for their children, Adam and Mila, who initially appears to be the perfect fit for the job.

**Myriam Massé**  
The mother of Adam and Mila, who is eager to return to her career and is the one who hires Louise to help care for her children.

**Paul Massé**  
Myriam's husband and father of Adam and Mila, who exhibits racist, classist, and sexist views and takes a largely hands-off approach to parenting.

**Stéphanie**  
Louise’s estranged daughter, who is portrayed as having struggled with societal and classist barriers in her youth.

**Mila Massé**  
The older child of the Massé family, whose interactions are part of the household dynamics portrayed in the story.

**Adam Massé**  
The younger child of the Massé family, whose presence helps underscore the domestic setting and tensions in the narrative.

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Chapters 9-15

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Chapters 16-18

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Chapters 19-31

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Chapters 32-33

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Chapters 34-40

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