If you’re looking for your next great read, Daphne du Maurier is a fantastic author to explore.  She has written many novels, short stories, and plays over the years – so where do you start?  We’ve put together a list of five must-read books by Daphne du Maurier to help get you started.  Whether you’re a fan of suspenseful thrillers or historical fiction, there’s something for everyone in her repertoire.  So please keep reading to learn more about Daphne du Maurier and her fantastic work!

First, who is Daphne du Maurier?

Daphne du Maurier was born in London in 1907 into a family of successful writers and actors.  Her grandfather was the famed artist and writer Sir George du Maurier, her father Gerald du Maurier was a famous actor-manager and her mother Muriel Beaumont was an actress.  Daphne began writing at a young age, and her first novel, The Loving Spirit, was published when she was just 22 years old.  Throughout her career, Daphne wrote many books, short stories, and plays – some of which were adapted into films or stage productions.  Many of Daphne’s works are set in Cornwall, where she lived for much of her life with her husband, Major General Frederick Browning.

Now that you know a little bit about Daphne du Maurier and her writing check out our list of five must-read books by this amazing author!

Daphne du Maurier’s most well-known novel is Rebecca.  This gothic mystery tells the story of a young woman who becomes the second wife of a wealthy man.  She moves with him to his estate in Cornwall only to find that the house is still haunted by the memory of his first wife, who died under mysterious circumstances.  Rebecca is a suspenseful and atmospheric read that you won’t be able to put down, and it has influenced and inspired many contemporary thriller and suspense novels.

If you’re looking for a spine-tingling read, Jamaica Inn is perfect for you.  This gothic novel tells the story of Mary Yellan, who moves to Cornwall to live with her uncle after her mother’s death.  Once there, she discovers that her uncle is involved in a smuggling ring, and things take a dark turn.  With its suspenseful plot and gothic setting, Jamaica Inn is sure to keep you entertained from beginning to end.

If you’re in the mood for a historical fiction novel, My Cousin Rachel is a great choice.  The story follows Philip Ashley, who believes his cousin Rachel killed his beloved guardian Ambrose and married him for his fortune.  So he sets out to take revenge on her, but things take an unexpected turn as he gets to know Rachel better.  First, he begins to question whether she is guilty and then falls in love with her.  My cousin Rachel is a complex and intriguing read that keeps you guessing until the end.

If you’re looking for a quick read, this collection of short stories is perfect for you.  The Birds includes the title story, which was adapted into an Academy Award-nominated film by Alfred Hitchcock, as well as nine other stories.  These stories range in genre, from ghost stories to suspenseful thrillers, so there’s something for everyone.

This historical fiction novel tells the story of Lady Dona St. Columb, who is bored with her life in London and decides to move to Cornwall.  There, she meets a dashing French pirate and becomes embroiled in a dangerous adventure.  With its suspenseful plot and engaging characters, Frenchman’s Creek is a thrilling read sure to transport you back in time and keep you entertained.

So there you have it, a guide to the best books by Daphne du Maurier.  We hope you enjoy exploring Daphne du Maurier’s work.  So pick up one of these books and start reading today!

Have you read any books by Daphne du Maurier?  Are any of these books or her other works on your TBR?   What book by Daphne du Maurier is your favorite?  What books would you add to this list?  Let us know in the comments below.