Before I Go To Sleep
S J WatsonEvery 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 001Most 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 160Generally 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 002Everybody enjoyed it and thought it was cleverly written. Ngongotaha 001
Pages
368
368
Year
2011
2011
Reviews
10-07-2023
We all loved this book. It kept us all enthralled but we didn't see the twist at the end coming.
08-05-2023
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.
08-02-2023
We enjoyed this book because it was different, but found it a little confusing and implausible. Some liked the ending but others were disappointed.
08-05-2020
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.
21-04-2020
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.
21-04-2020
Loved this book. Wow! What a surprise ending.
21-04-2020
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.
21-04-2020
A great read - gripping 'til the end. Very readable - easy reading.
21-04-2020
The book generated lots of discussion on head injuries.
21-04-2020
We all really liked this book - a great read!
21-04-2020
We enjoyed it and read it very quickly. Some disappointment in the ending.
21-04-2020
A gripping beginning. A cleverly crafted story, but the re-reading of the journal was a bit long-winded.
21-04-2020
Generally we enjoyed this book in spite of the inconsistencies about the amnesia - at times the memory recovery seemed too convenient.
21-04-2020
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.
21-04-2020
Above average thriller that some loved, and some loved looking for holes in the plot. Thought-provoking themes around memory and identity.
21-04-2020
Kept us all on the edge of our seats! A great read.
21-04-2020
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.
21-04-2020
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.
21-04-2020
Good fast read. All enjoyed it, and are looking forward to the movie:-)