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Hidden Bodies: (A You Novel)
Hidden Bodies: (A You Novel)
Hidden Bodies: (A You Novel)
Audiobook13 hours

Hidden Bodies: (A You Novel)

Written by Caroline Kepnes

Narrated by Santino Fontana

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

4/5

()

About this audiobook

2017 Audie Award Finalist for Thriller/Suspense

NOW A HIT NETFLIX ORIGINAL SERIES
THE RIVETING SEQUEL TO THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING YOU

“Kepnes hits the mark, cuts deep, and twists the knife.” —Entertainment Weekly

“Delicious and insane...The plot may be twisty and scintillating, but it’s Kepnes’s wit and style that keep you coming back.” —Lena Dunham

“Hypnotic and scary.” —Stephen King

“Obsessed.” —Jessica Knoll, New York Times bestselling author

In the compulsively readable sequel to her widely acclaimed debut novel, You, Caroline Kepnes weaves a tale that Booklist calls “the love child of Holden Caulfield and Patrick Bateman.”

In Hidden Bodies, the basis for season two of the hit Netflix series, You, Joe Goldberg returns.

Joe is no stranger to hiding bodies. In the past ten years, this thirty-something has buried four of them, collateral damage in his quest for love. Now he’s heading west to Los Angeles, the city of second chances, determined to put his past behind him.

In Hollywood, Joe blends in effortlessly with the other young upstarts. He eats guac, works in a bookstore, and flirts with a journalist neighbor. But while others seem fixated on their own reflections, Joe can’t stop looking over his shoulder. The problem with hidden bodies is that they don’t always stay that way. They reemerge, like dark thoughts, multiplying and threatening to destroy what Joe wants most: true love. And when he finds it in a darkened room in Soho House, he’s more desperate than ever to keep his secrets buried. He doesn’t want to hurt his new girlfriend—he wants to be with her forever. But if she ever finds out what he’s done, he may not have a choice…
LanguageEnglish
Release dateFeb 23, 2016
ISBN9781442385672
Author

Caroline Kepnes

Caroline Kepnes is the author of You, Hidden Bodies, Providence and numerous short stories. Her work has been translated into a multitude of languages and inspired a television series adaptation of You, currently on Netflix. Kepnes graduated from Brown University and previously worked as a pop culture journalist for Entertainment Weekly and a TV writer for 7th Heaven and The Secret Life of the American Teenager. She grew up on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and now lives in Los Angeles.

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Reviews for Hidden Bodies

Rating: 3.9586563337209304 out of 5 stars
4/5

774 ratings61 reviews

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  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    "Hidden Bodies" by Caroline Kepnes is the sequel to the best-selling thriller novel "You". It continues the story of Joe Goldberg, a charming and obsessive stalker who becomes increasingly dangerous as his obsession with the object of his affection, Love Quinn, grows.
    The novel is narrated in the first person by Joe himself, which gives readers a unique perspective into the mind of a stalker and sociopath. Kepnes does an excellent job of making Joe a sympathetic character, despite his disturbing actions, by delving into his past and showing the traumatic experiences that have shaped him.
    The plot takes Joe on a wild and twisted journey from New York to Los Angeles as he tries to escape his past and start a new life with Love. Along the way, he encounters a variety of characters, from Hollywood elites to struggling writers, all of whom become tangled up in his web of lies and manipulation.
    These characters are also well-developed and complex. Joe's love interest, Love Quinn, is a particularly interesting character who is much more than she appears to be at first. The interactions between the various characters are realistic and believable, adding to the sense of realism in the story.
    Kepnes' writing style is fast-paced and addictive, with plenty of suspenseful twists and turns to keep readers engaged. Her descriptions of Los Angeles are particularly vivid, bringing the city to life as a character in its own right.
    While "Hidden Bodies" is a dark and unsettling read, it's also a captivating exploration of obsession and the human psyche. Kepnes is a skilled storyteller who has a talent for creating deeply flawed characters who are still able to evoke empathy from the reader. This novel is sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. Fans of the first book will not be disappointed, and those new to the series will quickly find themselves hooked.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Good but cliff hanger. Still liked it a lot.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    It was tough to get through I'm hoping the third book is better
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Great read ! Unexpected twists and turns. Curious to read more by the author.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Caroline Kepnes is a genius! That’s all there is to say ❤️
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    The narrator really matches with Joe, turning it even better than the book
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Loved it! I just love crazy ass Joe Goldberg!
  • Rating: 2 out of 5 stars
    2/5
    This was a long listen. It was drawn out and sorry to say boring. “You” was much more entertaining.
  • Rating: 2 out of 5 stars
    2/5
    The audio book has some parts that aren’t edited correctly so it skips and moves onto another scene or chapter
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Even better than its predecessor. Stellar characterization and intriguing plot. Caroline Kepnes is a fantastic storyteller.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    It was nice and disgusting to be back in Joe's mind, and while I did enjoy his twisted thoughts, there were things that I liked more in the show, but definitely the book is better.
    They made awesome show though, looking forward to next season and to next book to see what happens next.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Loved it! Joe is the ultimate stalker/murderer who would so anything for love. Definitely different from the show, just so you're not disappointed.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Great and descriptive ! Can’t wait to see how it relates to season 2 of You
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Again, climatic excitement with erotic moments. I hope the ending was not the actual ending!
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    You was one of my favorite (audio)books last year, so I was super excited to read Hidden Bodies, but also slightly apprehensive whether Joe's return would live up to my expectations. I needn't have worried. Joe has mellowed a bit, in my opinion, but his lookout on the world is still as entertaining as ever. "Humans. I will never understand."I love how his mind works (I know I shouldn't), he is a depraved serial killer after all. But he is really trying hard to fit in this time. For Love ('Love' would have been the perfect title, shame it was changed). He even joins Facebook. Some of the references to social media and popular culture were hilarious. If you didn't like You, you probably won't like this, as there is still plenty of foul language and explicit scenes that may disturb some readers. I didn't actually find this sequel quite as dark or twisted as the first book, but I just love Joe. It'll be a long, desperate wait for book 3.Santino Fontano narrates the audiobook and once again his performance is stellar. The way he delivers some of the one-liners and Joe's internal monologue is out of this world. On Audible, there's also a free interview between Caroline Kepnes and Santino Fontano. It gives some background on when and how Ms. Kepnes came up with the idea for Joe, which was really interesting. I was already a fan because of her writing, I have even more respect for her now.Very witty, clever and highly original psychological thriller. Highly recommended.Thanks to the publisher for providing me with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
  • Rating: 2 out of 5 stars
    2/5
    Psychopaths who got away with his crimes, unlike dexter nor Dr.lecter, joe didn't kill the bad guys, he Kills whomever pissing him off.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Joe Goldberg is back, and he’s just as charming and obsessive as ever. Now he has a new love interest, Amy, and he vows not to make the same mistakes he made in the past with Beck.Amy seems perfect for Joe, and he tell her so. But the feeling isn’t mutual, and when she steals from him and runs off to Los Angeles, the stalking, murderous instincts re-emerge in Joe. He discovers that she has left New York for Hollywood and has signed up for acting classes. Joe is soon on his way to California to find her and make her pay for what she has done to him. But things are never simple for Joe. He soon becomes involved in a new relationship — Joe may have finally met his match.My ThoughtsThe story begins right where the first book, You, left off with the same fast pace and quick wit. It is written from Joe’s point of view so we are always aware of his thoughts and motivation. And that is what makes this such a great book. When we get into Joe’s head, he becomes likable, literate, and seductive in spite of all his faults. Yes, literate, he loves books. He works in a bookstore and appears to lead a normal life. Until you get to know him.There was a bit of a slow spot in the middle of the story after Joe moved to Los Angeles and we meet a new group of characters, but it soon picked up again with the same dark humor, murderous thoughts, a few bodies, and a quick pace. The plot makes frequent changes in direction and just when I thought I knew where it was headed, we were off on a new course — and ultimately headed for a surprising ending.Joe is one of the most compelling characters I’ve ever met. I wasn’t so much horrified by what Joe was thinking and doing as I was at the thought that there are people like him walking the streets and appearing normal. Joe was so needy and charming that I came dangerously close to rooting for him. Well, at times I was rooting for him! And then it was back to feeling creepy.As in the first book, there is some explicit sexual content and more than a few swear words. It fits the character of Joe and his warped thoughts, but I felt it deserved mention. There is satire and social commentary accompanied by some biting dark humor. This isn’t for everyone, but it’s one of those books you won’t know you like until to try it.While there is enough explanation of events in the first book to make this readable as a standalone, I don’t recommend it. And once you read the first chapter, you are completely spoiled for book one. Read You first! Even better, listen to the audiobook, it’s fantastic.Although this was one of my first reads of the new year, it has definitely made it on to my 2016 favorites list.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Awesome sequel to the first novel. “You” had me hooked but this one got me all tangled up again. The main character is the one you absolutely love to hate. He is charming and neurotic and is so desperate for love (literally lol). You almost root for him at the end. Great writing and great narration and nice twists and turns throughout. Can’t wait for the next chapter of Joe Goldberg aka Old Sport.
  • Rating: 2 out of 5 stars
    2/5
    Unfortunately, the theme, tone and writing style of this book are not for me. Abandoned after 4 chapters. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    Really engaging most of the book. It lost its appeal about 90% in and ended flat.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    Not as good as the show though the ending was better. If you do read it, keep in mind it’s totally different and take it as a book not based on the show. Like they took the names of everyone and some relationships, then threw them together into a plot. Felt a bit like the writer got bored after the first 15 chapters and changed the plot, and had to push myself to keep going to Joe finding Love. I don’t think I’ll read this again, not as unique as the first book but I preferred the ending so I’ll probably read the next one if there is one
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    Caroline Kepnes's second book, Hidden Bodies has just released.I really liked Kepnes's first book You. (my review) You introduced us to Joe, a sociopathic, narcissistic bookseller who thinks he's found the girl of his dreams. But the path to true love is a very bumpy one.....Joe returns in Hidden Bodies. He's in love again. And again it's a bumpy road. You was told in Joe's unending, seriously disturbed stream of consciousness narrative. That narrative continues in Hidden Bodies.Kepnes had my attention in the beginning as Joe is up to his old tricks...."You don't go to a party empty-handed and my reusable Pantry bag is stuffed with rope, my Rachael Ray knife, rubber gloves, plastic bags, duct tape, and Percocets from Dez."....but I slowly found my attention wandering as the book progressed. (spoiler) Joe ending up in Hollywood was just - I don't know - too much of a stretch for me. I must admit, that plots involving stars, movies, Hollywood etc. bore me.A big part of Joe's life revolves around his sex life. In You it made sense and was an integral part of the plot. But I found it overdone in Hidden Bodies. Honestly, I just grew weary of Joe and his d**k. (His words not mine) His detailed sexual escapades, exploits and fantasies lost the sense of shock or effect with so much repetition. Again, I grew bored.I liked Joe in You and even felt sorry for him. As I read, I saw shades of Dexter. I didn't have the same reaction this read. Instead, I found Joe to be flat and just not as interesting the second time around. I already knew who and what he was - his actions weren't much of a surprise, but simply another helping of the same. I saw the book through to the end - which finishes up somewhat ambiguously - hinting at perhaps a third Joe book - one I won't be picking up.I think I'm in the minority on this one.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Hidden Bodies by Caroline Kepnes is the second in the series to feature stalker and charming murderer Joe, who we met in You. He's a serial killer and anti-hero but you can't help but root for him, especially when he's in love.In Hidden Bodies, Joe moves to LA to chase the girl who broke his heart, took advantage of him and 'did a runner' to exact his revenge. Joe quickly starts hating on the people, the culture and sub-culture of LA and the Hollywood scene in a very amusing way that makes the pages turn quickly.Joe's need for revenge and his loathing of try-hard actors and their false little worlds soon begins to fade though as he hones in on a new project.You was one of my top 5 books for 2015, and the only reason I didn't give the sequel Hidden Bodies a full 5 stars was because of the ending. It was just too much of a cliff hanger for me, and I desperately want to know, will he or won't he? That said, Joe is an unforgettable narrator and I'm hoping to find out what happens to him next in a third instalment.It's no secret that Stephen King is a fan of Kepnes' work and has called her writing hypnotic and scary, so if my recommendation isn't enough, then take the word of the King. * Copy courtesy of NetGalley and Simon & Schuster *
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Hidden Bodies (You #2)By: Caroline KepnesPublisher: Atria/Emily Bestler BooksCopy Courtesy of NetgalleyReviewed By: tkJoe Goldberg will once again take you into his twisted, slightly demented, entertaining life in his quest for a wife. He has set his sights on her. Feels that they mesh together in a uniquely off set way. Until…Amy disappears. With the taste of blueberries on his tongue, she just leaves him? Oh NO! This will not be allowed. Joe is in hot pursuit. Leaving New York and traveling to Los Angeles Joe will find more than he’s bargained for, and stumbles in his own series of tragic events. The past has a way of showing up when you least expect it. Hidden secrets, like hidden bodies keep Joe on his toes as he tries to juggle his past, with a new love.Amazing, deranged, humorous Joe. I love him. Caroline Kepnes brings Joe on a realistic adventure and right into a brilliant twist of fate. He is such a charming and passionate man anyone would fall for him. If you look past the fact that Joe is a sociopath it would be a match made in heaven. I had a great amount of sympathy and respect for Joe. He was only following his heart right? I can only tell you to get to the first page as fast as you can. You will be thrilled to travel along with Joe and see how it all unfolds.Reading “You” the first book is not needed to read this title, but I can’t imagine anyone wanting to miss one minute of Joe Goldberg. 5/5
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Not as good as the first book but still a fun read. I think season 2 was a better idea of where the story was going.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    Joe Goldberg is at it again! Joe continues to look for love in all the wrong places...and as a result, people end up dead. This time Joe is looking on the West Coast in search of a girl who took advantage of him. In the hills of Hollywood, Joe looks for this woman only to find something else...Love. She shows him that someone can accept him for all he is and be content with helping him become a better person. The ending caught me by surprise but it was definitely a good way to close out the Joe Goldberg story.
  • Rating: 2 out of 5 stars
    2/5
    Enjoyable for the farce that it is. I liked You much more than the sequel. This one just seemed too nonsensical. Joe was just killing person after person & it kind of got routine. His “rise to fame” was ludicrous. His close calls with law enforcement were extreme, even though I know it happens in real life.

    I’m happy it moved fast. I didn’t want to DNF it, it was better than that, it was just too far fetched. I couldn’t make myself read the next book. I read a synopsis & that was enough.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    I’m not exactly sure why I feel this book so enjoyable, but I did. I was disappointed when it ended. I feel like we really get to know Joe better and his motivations become so much clearer. He’s just the most likable murderer ever!
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Joe, Joe, Joe! We know Joe's history and he seems to have left a little bit of a clue behind, which is eating at him. He has become involved with Amy Adam, but she has messed with him and disappeared to California.Which makes Joe trek all the way there from New York to "take care of her". He becomes involved with a the Quinn family and falls in love with Love. Does he fall back in to his historic ways? You will have to read to find that out. This character is such a fun character to hate, like, understand, etc.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    This was pretty good. Probably better than the second season of the show.It had some very Patricia Highsmith, Talented Mr. Ripley, vibes. Good characterization, almost no likeable characters, but I was still dug in and racing to the end. Some ok plot twists. Good plot points that make sense.Also, the show was a good adaptation of the book.Excited about the next one.