I had heard about this book on The TV Book Club and thought it sounded intriguing. Mark read it on holiday and reported that it was good.

I loved Parts 1 & 2. They are very unsettling; there is a tension throughout. My imagination ran wild as I read, conjuring all sorts of scenarios for protagonist Christine. I felt as paranoid as she is. The book very successfully puts the reader into her mind. I experienced paranoia, fear, relief and hopelessness numerous times.

Part 3 somehow doesn’t fit in with the previous parts. The plot becomes unfeasible and silly. The other thing that bugged me was Christine’s journal. Not only are the entries incredibly lengthy, they aren’t written in a diary style either.

I have to mention that it reminded me strongly of the film Memento, right down to the note to him/herself that says ‘Don’t trust (insert character’s name)’

But, in spite of the flaws, Before I Go To Sleep is a thoroughly enjoyable, gripping read.

(29th in 2012)