Ripley's Game oder Der amerikanische Freund

Ripley's complex character keeps me guessing about his true motivations. I'm curious whether Highsmith intended him to be sympathetic or purely villainous.

His charm and cunning make for a tense read, but I wonder if this reflects real psychological traits or is just fiction amplified for effect.

The story balances quiet tension with moments of action so well — I wonder if that was a deliberate choice or a natural outcome of the plot.