After falling in love with Dostoevsky’s White Nights—which I read three times over in one sitting—I had high hopes for Crime and Punishment. It absolutely exceeded them and cemented Dostoevsky as one of my favourite authors.

Raskolnikov is one of the most complex, raw, and painfully human characters I’ve ever encountered. His torment, self-justifications, and ultimate search for meaning pulled me in completely. The way Dostoevsky captured his inner turmoil was nothing short of extraordinary.

Dostoevsky’s writing is simply stunning. He masterfully balances intense philosophical questions with gripping storytelling, creating a narrative that’s both thought-provoking and impossible to put down. Every scene brims with tension and emotion, demanding your full attention.

The female characters in this novel, particularly Dunya and Sonya, were also standouts for me. Dunya’s strength and compassion shone throughout, and her fierce independence made her a character I deeply admired. Sonya’s dedication to her family and unwavering kindness brought such humanity to the story. I loved how Dostoevsky portrayed these women with complexity and emotional depth, adding even more layers to an already incredible book.

Listening to Will Poulter’s narration elevated the experience even further. His performance brought the characters and story to life so vividly, and I’d highly recommend the audiobook.

This is a book that challenges you, shakes you, and leaves you questioning so much about life, morality, and the choices we make.


“What do you think? Would not one tiny crime be wiped out by thousands of good deeds? For one life, thousands would be saved from corruption and decay. One death, and a hundred lives in exchange—it’s simple arithmetic!”