Tangerine by Christine Mangan

I've read mixed reviews regarding Tangerine by Christine Mangan. The reviews have been so mixed that I wasn't sure I even wanted to read Tangerine despite the fact that it sounded like an intriguing/must read novel. However, when I came across the paperback edition of Tangerine by Christine Mangan at a Free Little Library in Solana Beach, California, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to give it a try. After all, what did I really have to lose?

If you love psychological thrillers with unreliable narrators, two female protagonists, toxic female friendships, and a novel set in an exotic locale, then Tangerine by Christine Mangan may be the next novel you'll want to read!

Overall, I enjoyed reading Tangerine by Christine Mangan. I liked the alternating chapters featuring the point of view of either Alice or Lucy. Each alternating chapter added an element of suspense as Tangerine unfolded slowly. The storyline's tension slowly builds to reveal what the 'big secret' is between Alice and Lucy that ended their friendship in college. 

Additionally, both women appear mentally/emotionally unstable/damaged in some way throughout Tangerine. Alice is the most fragile of the two women and is easily manipulated, while Lucy is a strong, confident, independent, and manipulative woman. Do I dare write that Lucy seems to be a sociopath? 

Tangerine by Christine Mangan is multifaceted. It contains elements from 19th century Gothic novels/literature with references of Jane Eyre being particularly hinted at in Tangerine. There is also the focus on such "classic Gothic tropes as tyrannical husbands" (page 311, author's note). 

Additionally, Elle magazine is quoted as saying "Fans of The Talented Mr. Ripley will love this fast-paced thriller." I was also reminded of the unstable character Glenn Close played in the movie, 'Fatal Attraction', while reading Tangerine.

The city of Tangier itself plays a major role in Tangerine and can even be considered a character as well.

I enjoyed Christine Mangan's writing style very much and her way of describing characters, scenes, and emotions. I look forward to seeing what she writes in the future.

The epilogue for Tangerine was a bit of a disappointment though... It wasn't horrible, but I felt it could have gone out with a bang instead of the mild mannered way in which it did.

The following is a plot summary for Tangerine by Christine Mangan from Amazon:

The last person Alice Shipley expected to see since arriving in Tangier with her new husband was Lucy Mason. After the accident at Bennington, the two friends—once inseparable roommates—haven’t spoken in over a year. But there Lucy was, trying to make things right and return to their old rhythms. Perhaps Alice should be happy. She has not adjusted to life in Morocco, too afraid to venture out into the bustling medinas and oppressive heat. Lucy—always fearless and independent—helps Alice emerge from her flat and explore the country.

But soon a familiar feeling starts to overtake Alice—she feels controlled and stifled by Lucy at every turn. Then Alice’s husband, John, goes missing, and Alice starts to question everything around her: her relationship with her enigmatic friend, her decision to ever come to Tangier, and her very own state of mind. 

Tangerine is a sharp dagger of a book—a debut so tightly wound, so replete with exotic imagery and charm, so full of precise details and extraordinary craftsmanship, it will leave you absolutely breathless.

I am giving Tangerine by Christine Mangan a rating of 3 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!