Miniaturist vs. Unthinkable

Attribute	Miniaturist	Unthinkable
Genre	Historical fiction	Thriller
Author	Jessie Burton	Chris Morgan Jones
Setting	17th century Amsterdam	Contemporary Europe
Plot	Focuses on a young woman who becomes a miniaturist	Centers around a corporate espionage investigation
Themes	Art, power, gender roles	Deception, betrayal, corruption

Plot

Miniaturist is a historical fiction novel set in 17th century Amsterdam, following the story of a young bride who receives a mysterious dollhouse that seems to predict the future. On the other hand, Unthinkable is a psychological thriller about a psychologist who is forced to confront his own dark past when he is called in to evaluate a patient who claims to have committed a horrific crime. Both novels have gripping plots that keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Character Development

In Miniaturist, the characters are complex and multi-dimensional, each with their own secrets and motivations. The protagonist, Nella, undergoes a significant transformation throughout the novel as she navigates the unfamiliar world of her new marriage and the mysteries of the dollhouse. In Unthinkable, the characters are equally well-developed, with the psychologist's internal struggles and the patient's enigmatic nature adding layers of depth to the story.

Setting

The setting of Miniaturist plays a crucial role in the novel, as the opulent yet restrictive society of 17th century Amsterdam adds tension and intrigue to the story. The descriptions of the city and its inhabitants immerse readers in a world of wealth, power, and secrets. In contrast, Unthinkable is set in a more contemporary setting, with the psychologist's office and the patient's home serving as the primary locations for the unfolding drama.

Themes

Both Miniaturist and Unthinkable explore themes of power, control, and the consequences of secrets. In Miniaturist, the dollhouse serves as a metaphor for the characters' lack of agency in a society that seeks to control their every move. In Unthinkable, the psychologist grapples with the power dynamics of his profession and the ethical implications of his actions. Both novels delve into the darker aspects of human nature and the lengths people will go to protect themselves.

Writing Style

The writing style of Miniaturist is lush and descriptive, with vivid imagery that brings 17th century Amsterdam to life. The author's attention to detail and historical accuracy add depth to the story and create a sense of immersion for the reader. In contrast, Unthinkable has a more fast-paced and suspenseful writing style, with short, punchy sentences that keep the tension high throughout the novel. The author's use of psychological insights and twists keeps readers guessing until the very end.

Conclusion

While Miniaturist and Unthinkable are vastly different in terms of plot, setting, and themes, both novels excel in their own right. Miniaturist captivates readers with its rich historical detail and intricate character development, while Unthinkable keeps readers on the edge of their seats with its psychological depth and suspenseful writing style. Whether you prefer a historical mystery or a contemporary thriller, both novels offer a compelling reading experience that will leave you thinking long after you've turned the final page.