As we embrace the arrival of the new year, a palpable sense of excitement and anticipatory enthusiasm fills the air for the yet-to-be-discovered stories awaiting us in the world of books.
The field of literature continues to evolve, with authors pushing the limits, venturing into unexplored genres, and presenting thought-provoking narratives.
Whether you’re an avid book lover or someone looking to develop a new reading routine, 2024 promises an extraordinary journey through the varied landscapes of literature.
Today’s pick is ANNA O by MATTHEW BLAKE
In the intriguing world of forensic psychology and sleep disorders, the story unfolds four years after a woman, Anna Ogilvy, allegedly murdered her best friends while sleepwalking.
Dr. Benedict Prince, a distinguished forensic psychologist and sleep specialist working at the Abbey Sleep Clinic in London, becomes entangled in a complex web of intrigue when summoned by his boss, Dr. Virginia Bloom, and a representative from the Ministry of Justice.
The catalyst for this unfolding drama is an article authored by Dr. Prince proposing a potential cure for “resignation syndrome.”
This mysterious condition induces a deep sleep, often persisting for years, as a coping mechanism to evade trauma.
The government, intrigued by the prospect of reviving individuals affected by this syndrome, specifically targets a high-profile case: Anna Ogilvy, nicknamed “Sleeping Beauty,” a young journalist accused of murdering two people while sleepwalking and who has remained in a prolonged slumber for four years.
Tasked with awakening Anna so she can face trial for her alleged crimes, Dr. Prince embarks on a daring experiment employing sensory stimulation therapy.
His objective is to connect Anna’s subconscious to happy memories from her childhood, hoping to coax her back to wakefulness.
As he delves into her case, Dr. Prince uncovers a labyrinth of secrets. Before her mysterious sleep took hold, Anna was on the trail of a connection between a notorious English murderer from the 20th century and a covert government experiment named MEDEA.
The stakes escalate as Dr. Prince grapples with the possibility that Anna might not be solely responsible for the murders she is accused of committing. Intriguingly, she could be a pawn, a scapegoat for someone else’s malevolent actions.
The shadowy figure orchestrating this intricate plot might have a history of silencing those who threaten to expose secrets.
With Anna’s impending awakening, the danger looms not only for her but also for Dr. Prince, who finds himself entwined in a conspiracy that spans from the depths of a notorious psychiatric hospital to a primal forest and the sun-soaked beaches of Grand Cayman.
Blake’s thriller skillfully weaves together elements of Greek tragedies and locked-room mysteries, creating a narrative that goes beyond a mere “whodunit.” The central question becomes a profound “whydunit.”
The psychological exploration of sleep and guilt adds layers to the narrative, drawing readers into a suspenseful journey from the corridors of a psychiatric hospital to exotic locales.
The story unfolds in a grand operatic scope, with tension building layer by layer.
The intricate plot takes the reader on a captivating journey through the complexities of human psychology, the mysteries of sleep disorders, and the dark alleys of governmental experiments.
Comparisons to Greek tragedies highlight the depth of the narrative, while locked-room mystery elements keep readers on the edge of their seats.
In this layered and gripping tale, Blake not only provides a satisfying solution to the mystery but also invites readers to ponder the profound motivations behind the characters’ actions.
Once you are immersed in the narrative, the compelling blend of psychological drama and suspense ensures there is no easy way to put the book down.
About The Author
Upon realizing that the average individual dedicates thirty-three years of their existence to slumber, Matthew Blake found himself drawn to a captivating narrative.
Immersed in thorough investigations on sleep-related crimes and the enigmatic ailment called resignation syndrome, he pondered a gripping query: in the event of a murder committed during sleepwalking, does the perpetrator bear innocence or guilt? Thus, his novel, ANNA O, came into existence.
Prior to venturing into fiction, Matthew served as a researcher and speechwriter in Westminster. He pursued his studies in English at Durham University and Merton College, Oxford, currently residing in London.
Vincent Salera
Founder @ World's Best Story™ amplifier of creativity & fun!
