Kara LaReau has released *Licorice*, a middle-grade novel that reimagines Daphne du Maurier’s 1938 Gothic classic *Rebecca* through the perspective of shelter cats. The book, published recently, offers a fresh and accessible retelling of the psychological drama and haunting atmosphere that have made *Rebecca* enduringly popular among readers of all ages.

*Rebecca* follows the story of a young, unnamed woman who marries the mysterious Maxim de Winter and moves into his imposing estate, Manderley, only to be overshadowed by the legacy of his first wife, Rebecca. LaReau’s adaptation transposes these themes into the animal world, focusing on Kitty, a timid shelter kitten adopted by Max Winters. The house at 5 Manderley Lane—populated by other pets, including the imperious parrot Duchess—serves as the new setting, where Kitty confronts the lingering presence of Max’s previous cat, Licorice.

Licorice’s memory is a central motif, much like the original novel’s eponymous character. Kitty is haunted by Licorice’s scent and the marks she left behind, fueling insecurities and tensions reflective of the psychological struggle faced by du Maurier’s heroine. Characters analogous to those in *Rebecca* appear in the form of pets and people associated with Max, including stand-ins for Mrs. Danvers, the sinister housekeeper; Jack Favell, the dissolute suitor; and other figures, all contributing to the layered narrative of jealousy, identity, and belonging.

LaReau’s version is noted for balancing the story's darker elements with a tone suitable for children, allowing young readers to explore complex themes such as “Rebecca Syndrome”—the feeling of being overshadowed by a predecessor. The novel addresses this with a gentler outlook and moments of hope, diverging from the original’s more sinister mood while preserving its suspense and ambiguity. Max’s character, while less opaque than du Maurier’s Maxim de Winter, retains an element of mystery that invites readers to ponder his intentions and emotions.

Readers familiar with *Rebecca* will recognize how *Licorice* remains faithful to the original's psychological depth while employing the unique traits and behaviors of cats to enrich the narrative. LaReau, who has long been a cat owner, uses feline characteristics—independence, pride, and elusiveness—to serve as metaphors for identity and alienation.

The story highlights the universal struggle of self-acceptance in the shadow of others, delivered through a lens that may resonate with both children and adults. In doing so, *Licorice* becomes more than a simple retelling; it is a thoughtful exploration of how we negotiate the legacies left behind and find our own place within them.