Catalogue

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Title:	Before I Go To Sleep
Authors:	S J Watson
Genre:	Fiction
Pages:	368
Year:	2011
Publisher:	Random House
Language:	English
Description:	Every morning Christine Lucas wakes without memories. Her past, her present, the people she loves - all are erased every night when she goes to sleep. Each day she must try to piece her life together. Each day the questions come. Who can she trust when she can't remember yesterday? How can she love without memory? And why is she so frightened? [Taken from the book cover.] Comments from Groups: Absolutely mesmorising-clever, compelling writing. Although the questions in the notes were excellent, we found ourselves sharing personal `memory` stories. We recommend re-reading this story, no-one guessed the true identity of `Ben`-in retrospect it would be interesting tracing the clues. Otaki 001 Most people in our group enjoyed the book. It was very readable, but we had doubts about the authors ability to write a convincing woman, especially the sexual side of her being. Auckland 160 Generally enjoyed as an interesting, easy read. Many holes in storyline that left many questions-was this due to a male author writing a female main character? The amnesia theme held readers' interest. Read, enjoy & don't think about how written! Rotorua 002 Everybody enjoyed it and thought it was cleverly written. Ngongotaha 001
Categories:	Fiction, Grief/loss, Suspense/Thriller, Psychological

Reviews

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By: NEWP 016		2024-04-11 20:32:59

We enjoyed this book but felt it dragged and was quite repetitive during the first half. It then sped up and the ending felt rushed. We would have liked more detail in the final paragraphs to complete the story. All in all not too bad and a good read overall.

By: SOUTH 001		2023-07-10 13:10:00

We all loved this book. It kept us all enthralled but we didn't see the twist at the end coming.

By: DUNED 118		2023-05-07 10:33:50

Our discussion reflected varied opinions of the content. Some frustration with suggestions that weren't expanded upon in the text eg. taking tablets suggesting she may be drugged, how was she well enough to be left all day alone, how were normal activities possible with no memory, like going for coffee or a walk and safely returning home, or using a mobile phone or charging it. Felt it was a book of two halves, absorbing in the 1st half, then more frustrating inconsistencies spoilt the second half. Many felt the story was a little bit unbelievable. Everyone at the discussion did finish the book.

By: LITRIV 001		2023-02-08 14:14:39

We enjoyed this book because it was different, but found it a little confusing and implausible. Some liked the ending but others were disappointed.

By: PAUA 001		2020-05-08 13:05:14

A fascinating insight into the human mind and the lengths that some people will go to influence and ultimately control others. A tale full of drama and suspense which led to thought-provoking discussion on trust and memory. Highly recommended.

By: AUCK 063		2020-04-21 14:06:27

Average score from us, but wider range of responses. From "did not finish, did not like", to "gripped, would recommend'. As always, many leads for discussion - fascinating topic.

By: WHAKA 010		2020-04-21 14:03:07

Loved this book. Wow! What a surprise ending.

By: CHCH 099		2020-04-21 13:53:08

Some had read it before/seen the movie, but didn't realise it. All enjoyed it and felt it had drama and suspense, and a decent story and characters.

By: AUCK 404		2020-04-21 13:51:16

A great read - gripping 'til the end. Very readable - easy reading.

By: AUCK 178		2020-04-21 13:50:08

The book generated lots of discussion on head injuries.

By: AUCK 267		2020-04-21 13:49:22

We all really liked this book - a great read!

By: CHCH 313		2020-04-21 13:48:38

We enjoyed it and read it very quickly. Some disappointment in the ending.

By: TAUR 015		2020-04-21 13:47:47

A gripping beginning. A cleverly crafted story, but the re-reading of the journal was a bit long-winded.

By: ROTO 006		2020-04-21 13:46:39

Generally we enjoyed this book in spite of the inconsistencies about the amnesia - at times the memory recovery seemed too convenient.

By: AUCK 224		2020-04-21 13:44:53

2 members didn't read the book. Most people enjoyed reading it for the story, not analysing it as they read. The doctor seemed a bit creepy, and there was some doubt about his motives as the story progressed. Was it reasonable for the husband to leave the wife There was a lot of sympathy with this, particularly from the point of view of the child. Most found it an easy read, and on the whole, a good choice.

By: LOWER 006		2020-04-21 13:41:39

Above average thriller that some loved, and some loved looking for holes in the plot. Thought-provoking themes around memory and identity.

By: AUCK 279		2020-04-21 13:40:10

Kept us all on the edge of our seats! A great read.

By: WHANG 008		2020-04-21 13:39:28

We had a lively discussion. We agreed it was a "page turner", but also agreed that its early promise wasn't maintained. A good editor could have made a big improvement, but most of us were glad we had read it, as light and engaging. One person found it scary and chilling.

By: AUCK 255		2020-04-21 13:36:13

Overall, the group enjoyed the book. We discussed how the recurring diary entries were frustrating for some readers, particularly the ones who read the book over a short time period, whereas others found that useful.

By: AUCK 192		2020-04-21 13:34:20

Good fast read. All enjoyed it, and are looking forward to the movie:-)

Catalogue

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Reviews