Mijn man

Introduction to 'Mijn man'

This manual provides comprehensive information regarding the novel 'Mijn man' (My Husband) by Maud Ventura. It is designed to enhance your understanding and appreciation of the book's content, author, and critical reception.

Image: Front cover of the book 'Mijn man', depicting a woman in a vintage-style setting.

Overview of the Narrative

She has an enviable life: a successful career, a beautiful house in a suburb, two children, and the perfect husband. But beneath this apparent marital bliss lies an all-consuming passion. After fifteen years, she is still madly in love with her husband, but she doubts whether her intense feelings are mutual. Therefore, she wants to be impeccable. She meticulously prepares every encounter with her husband, sets traps for him, and punishes him when he makes mistakes. Every day, the tension builds, and unease grows. Can their marriage survive her passion? 'A sharp, psychologically complex debut. [. . .] This compelling emotional thriller requires serious willpower not to devour it in one go.' - Oprah Winfrey

About the Author

Maud Ventura (born 1993) holds master's degrees in philosophy and management. She currently heads the podcast department of the French radio group NRJ. In her own podcast Lalala, she explores the complexities of love. Maud Ventura resides in Paris. 'Mijn man' is her debut novel, which has sold over 100,000 copies in France.

Reading Experience

Preparation for Reading

• Environment: Select a quiet and comfortable location free from distractions to fully immerse yourself in the narrative.
• Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting to prevent eye strain, especially during extended reading sessions.
• Mindset: Approach the story with an open mind, ready to engage with complex psychological themes and character motivations.

Engaging with the Narrative

The novel delves into intense emotional states and psychological tension. Readers may find it beneficial to:

• Pace Yourself: While described as compelling, consider reading at a pace that allows for reflection on the unfolding events and character development.
• Note-Taking: If desired, keep notes on key plot points, character observations, or thematic elements that resonate with you.
• Emotional Engagement: Be prepared for a narrative that explores obsessive love and marital dynamics, which may evoke strong emotional responses.

Book Care and Preservation

Handling

• Clean Hands: Always handle the book with clean, dry hands to prevent smudges and damage to the pages and cover.
• Gentle Turning: Turn pages gently from the top or bottom corner to avoid tearing or creasing.
• Avoid Bending: Do not bend the book's spine excessively, as this can weaken the binding and cause pages to detach.

Storage

• Cool, Dry Place: Store the book in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight, humidity, and extreme temperatures to prevent warping, fading, or mold growth.
• Upright Position: Ideally, store the book upright on a bookshelf to maintain its shape and prevent cover damage.
• Protection: If transporting, place the book in a protective bag or sleeve to guard against spills and physical damage.

Understanding the Content

Interpreting Themes

The novel explores themes of obsessive love, marital dynamics, psychological tension, and the perception of reality within a relationship. Readers are encouraged to consider:

• The protagonist's motivations and internal conflicts.
• The psychological impact of intense emotional states on individuals and relationships.
• The societal pressures and expectations that may influence personal relationships.

Discussion Points

For those engaging in book club discussions or personal reflection, consider questions such as:

• How does the author build suspense and unease throughout the narrative?
• What are the implications of the protagonist's actions on her relationship and personal well-being?
• How does the book challenge or reinforce traditional notions of love and marriage?

Product Specifications

Editorial Insights

Reviews

"Irresistible . . . Exciting . . . Ramadan's precise translation keeps the reader in its grip . . . A bold and memorable debut." - Publishers Weekly

"Ventura explores themes such as paranoia, class, and, above all, obsessive love from the everyday neuroses of the couple, building their importance (and their darkness) to keep readers in suspense. Ramadan's translation effectively conveys both the setting and the growing tension. Fans of Caroline Kepnes' You (2014) or Gillian Flynn will find Mijn man a new, satisfying, and nerve-wracking version of the relationship-suspense genre." - Booklist

"Reading groups will enjoy discussing it." - Kirkus Reviews

Support and Inquiries

For questions regarding the content of 'Mijn man', or for issues related to the physical condition of the book (e.g., printing errors, damaged copies), please contact the publisher, Horizon. Information on returns or exchanges for books purchased through retailers should be directed to the respective point of purchase.

Publisher: Horizon

Please refer to the publisher's official website or contact information for direct support.