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The Glass Woman
A riveting psychological thriller that explores the tensions that arise when you can no longer trust those you love.
Black Mirror meets Before I Go to Sleep by way of Severence
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When you wake up without your memories, who can you really trust?
Pioneering scientist Iris Henderson chose to be her own first test subject for an experimental therapy, placing a piece of technology into her brain. At least, this is what everyone tells her. Trouble is, Iris is now without her memories so she doesn't know what the therapy is or why she would ever decide to volunteer for it.
Everyone warns her to leave it alone, but Iris doesn't know who to trust. As she scratches beneath the surface of her seemingly happy marriage and successful career, a catastrophic chain of events is set in motion. Secrets will be revealed that can destroy her whole life, but Iris can't stop digging.
Black Mirror meets Before I Go to Sleep by way of Severence
---
When you wake up without your memories, who can you really trust?
Pioneering scientist Iris Henderson chose to be her own first test subject for an experimental therapy, placing a piece of technology into her brain. At least, this is what everyone tells her. Trouble is, Iris is now without her memories so she doesn't know what the therapy is or why she would ever decide to volunteer for it.
Everyone warns her to leave it alone, but Iris doesn't know who to trust. As she scratches beneath the surface of her seemingly happy marriage and successful career, a catastrophic chain of events is set in motion. Secrets will be revealed that can destroy her whole life, but Iris can't stop digging.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 9, 2024
73 people are currently reading
678 people want to read
About the author
Alice McIlroy
1 book15 followersAlice McIlroy was born in London. She graduated in English and has a post-graduate in Law. She completed Faber Academy’s novel-writing programme in 2018. Her writing has been longlisted for the Stylist Prize for Feminist Fiction and Grindstone International Novel Prize. The Glass Woman is her debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
October 29, 2023
Thank you Datura for the ARC. IYKYK, my reviews are ALWAYS honest.
SYNOPSIS
Iris wakes up from an experimental AI-implant procedure with no memories. But maybe those memories aren't worth rediscovering...
MY OPINION
Disclaimer: I'm not a regular sci-fi reader so if you're a vet of this genre, you may feel very differently from me and should take my review with a grain of salt. Disclaimer #2: I didn't really know what was happening at some points but I still liked it LOL.
This is described as Black Mirror meets Before I Go To Sleep, and from the two Black Mirror episodes I have watched, I would agree... I think? It definitely does give Before I Go To Sleep vibes, but the sci-fi version. If you're someone who needs every technical detail to really buy into the concept, this won't be for you. Alice McIllroy keeps everything pretty high-level, probably to make this more readable for the general public. There isn't much explanation into AI, machine learning, or how the AI brain chip even works. It's just a lot of vibes of the spooky variety.
Regardless, it is an interesting concept. And if Elon Musk's Disney villian ass had his way, it would be a reality tomorrow. Again, if you're a computer science nerd, this will probably be a very lame read for you. But for the average person, it is scary to think about how AI could control our minds. Definitely a great buddy read or bookclub pick; there's plenty to discuss here. I refuse to use ChatGPT so the AI brain chip is a no for me dawg. I don't need my memories extracted... it's called dissociation thank you very much!!!!!!!
The prose is akin to Iain Reid and trends more literary. It's set somewhere in the future but no specific year is given. The world-building is sparse. The author does a good job of putting you inside the mind of Iris. I was as confused and a lil scurred as she was at times. I know a lot of people hate the amnesia trope, but to me, it's a better type of unreliable narrator than a drunk/high one. And no, this isn't predictable... at least not to me? Either way, I think it's fun to watch a amnesia-ed out hoe start to put the pieces together, regardless if you can see the entire puzzle already. The ending felt a bit rushed, but for a debut, this was an ambitious premise that was fairly well-executed. I'm definitely keen to read whatever this author puts out next.
I know I'm repeating myself, but I want to make this very clear: I am not a regular sci-fi reader or a computer nerd so how I feel about this book will most certainly be wildly different than someone who is more well-versed on the genre and topics at hand.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: cool concept (for someone who doesn't read the genre regularly / isn't a computer/tech geek), unique writing style, spooky, ominous vibes, interesting 'twist'
Cons: doesn't get into the nitty gritty of how the tech works which is fine by me, I'm here for the speculation and vibes only but I know others will be pressed about this, ending is a bit rushed and there it is a bit repetitive at times
SYNOPSIS
Iris wakes up from an experimental AI-implant procedure with no memories. But maybe those memories aren't worth rediscovering...
MY OPINION
Disclaimer: I'm not a regular sci-fi reader so if you're a vet of this genre, you may feel very differently from me and should take my review with a grain of salt. Disclaimer #2: I didn't really know what was happening at some points but I still liked it LOL.
This is described as Black Mirror meets Before I Go To Sleep, and from the two Black Mirror episodes I have watched, I would agree... I think? It definitely does give Before I Go To Sleep vibes, but the sci-fi version. If you're someone who needs every technical detail to really buy into the concept, this won't be for you. Alice McIllroy keeps everything pretty high-level, probably to make this more readable for the general public. There isn't much explanation into AI, machine learning, or how the AI brain chip even works. It's just a lot of vibes of the spooky variety.
Regardless, it is an interesting concept. And if Elon Musk's Disney villian ass had his way, it would be a reality tomorrow. Again, if you're a computer science nerd, this will probably be a very lame read for you. But for the average person, it is scary to think about how AI could control our minds. Definitely a great buddy read or bookclub pick; there's plenty to discuss here. I refuse to use ChatGPT so the AI brain chip is a no for me dawg. I don't need my memories extracted... it's called dissociation thank you very much!!!!!!!
The prose is akin to Iain Reid and trends more literary. It's set somewhere in the future but no specific year is given. The world-building is sparse. The author does a good job of putting you inside the mind of Iris. I was as confused and a lil scurred as she was at times. I know a lot of people hate the amnesia trope, but to me, it's a better type of unreliable narrator than a drunk/high one. And no, this isn't predictable... at least not to me? Either way, I think it's fun to watch a amnesia-ed out hoe start to put the pieces together, regardless if you can see the entire puzzle already. The ending felt a bit rushed, but for a debut, this was an ambitious premise that was fairly well-executed. I'm definitely keen to read whatever this author puts out next.
I know I'm repeating myself, but I want to make this very clear: I am not a regular sci-fi reader or a computer nerd so how I feel about this book will most certainly be wildly different than someone who is more well-versed on the genre and topics at hand.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: cool concept (for someone who doesn't read the genre regularly / isn't a computer/tech geek), unique writing style, spooky, ominous vibes, interesting 'twist'
Cons: doesn't get into the nitty gritty of how the tech works which is fine by me, I'm here for the speculation and vibes only but I know others will be pressed about this, ending is a bit rushed and there it is a bit repetitive at times
January 17, 2024
3.5 Stars
Video Review: https://youtu.be/3hvDORi-RaE
I really enjoy these kinds of speculative thrillers in the vein of Black Mirror. The premise appeals to my love of stories like Foe by Iain Reid. While not quite at that level, this one will appeal to a similar set of readers.
While this one technically has science fiction elements, it reads much more like a mystery thriller. The narrative is actually quite slow with very action. At times the details were a little too mundane and failed to create a feeling of suspense.
From the premise alone, I had a strong idea what the twist to this one would be. After finishing, I can say that my guess was wrong. I wish I had been right even if my prediction would have been more obvious. Instead the author went for a more complicated elaborate plot. On paper, this should be a plus, but honestly I found the ending a bit overworked.
That being said, I still have a soft spot for novels like this. While not an all time favourite, I found this one compelling and kept me anticipating how it might all come together in the end.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
Video Review: https://youtu.be/3hvDORi-RaE
I really enjoy these kinds of speculative thrillers in the vein of Black Mirror. The premise appeals to my love of stories like Foe by Iain Reid. While not quite at that level, this one will appeal to a similar set of readers.
While this one technically has science fiction elements, it reads much more like a mystery thriller. The narrative is actually quite slow with very action. At times the details were a little too mundane and failed to create a feeling of suspense.
From the premise alone, I had a strong idea what the twist to this one would be. After finishing, I can say that my guess was wrong. I wish I had been right even if my prediction would have been more obvious. Instead the author went for a more complicated elaborate plot. On paper, this should be a plus, but honestly I found the ending a bit overworked.
That being said, I still have a soft spot for novels like this. While not an all time favourite, I found this one compelling and kept me anticipating how it might all come together in the end.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
December 22, 2023
My Rating: 3⭐️⭐️⭐️ it was good… but not great!
When you wake up without your memories, who can you really trust?
Scientist Iris Henderson chose to be her own first test-subject in a ground breaking experimental therapy. A piece of technology is placed into her brain to assist with trauma, helping heal from the emotional damage it was doing to her and bring her peace.
The trouble is Iris has lost her memories altogether and she cannot fathom whys he would sign away her consent to this type of experimental treatment and everyone around her cannot be trusted… or so she thinks.
Ok, so I liked it but I didn’t love it. It was a bit confusing and I am fine with that but some of it to me was pointless misdirection and some of it was so so so repetitive. We got to hear about Iris nearly blacking out or actually blacking out from disobeying the implant for what felt like a hundred times… I was getting a bit irritated with that.
I did like the writing and I did like the premise but overall this one was a meh for me. I think that it was a bit of a cop out with the twist and the reason for the implant. And there was a real ominous feel to it that fell really flat for me… and then kind of when nowhere. Some really creepy shit could have happened but I think they really missed the mark on it.
Some storyline’s were introduced and not fully discovered and others were too drawn out. Like I said it was super repetitive in places and we read all about their house and how suffocating it was but there was little to no explanation to why… now I get the nuance of what she was talking about but why keep mentioning over and over and over again if you aren’t going to give it a little more substance. I felt like there were a lot of things like this in the book that had a half measure applied to them only to really go nowhere.
I don’t really have much more to add as I don’t want to spoil the book for people. The sci-fi type AI angle was good… it could have been better as well because there was a lot of ambiguity and while I normally really like that it was just a bit confusing and ended up being a non event. I did keep drifting off which is never a good sign… initially I put it down to me being tired but honestly I think I was a little bored.
Overall, I don’t really have anyone to recommend this too… not with all my heart. If you like the sound of the premise then give it a go its not super long and like I said its not a bad book…just not a great book.
Thank you to the author, NetGalley and Datura Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When you wake up without your memories, who can you really trust?
Scientist Iris Henderson chose to be her own first test-subject in a ground breaking experimental therapy. A piece of technology is placed into her brain to assist with trauma, helping heal from the emotional damage it was doing to her and bring her peace.
The trouble is Iris has lost her memories altogether and she cannot fathom whys he would sign away her consent to this type of experimental treatment and everyone around her cannot be trusted… or so she thinks.
Ok, so I liked it but I didn’t love it. It was a bit confusing and I am fine with that but some of it to me was pointless misdirection and some of it was so so so repetitive. We got to hear about Iris nearly blacking out or actually blacking out from disobeying the implant for what felt like a hundred times… I was getting a bit irritated with that.
I did like the writing and I did like the premise but overall this one was a meh for me. I think that it was a bit of a cop out with the twist and the reason for the implant. And there was a real ominous feel to it that fell really flat for me… and then kind of when nowhere. Some really creepy shit could have happened but I think they really missed the mark on it.
Some storyline’s were introduced and not fully discovered and others were too drawn out. Like I said it was super repetitive in places and we read all about their house and how suffocating it was but there was little to no explanation to why… now I get the nuance of what she was talking about but why keep mentioning over and over and over again if you aren’t going to give it a little more substance. I felt like there were a lot of things like this in the book that had a half measure applied to them only to really go nowhere.
I don’t really have much more to add as I don’t want to spoil the book for people. The sci-fi type AI angle was good… it could have been better as well because there was a lot of ambiguity and while I normally really like that it was just a bit confusing and ended up being a non event. I did keep drifting off which is never a good sign… initially I put it down to me being tired but honestly I think I was a little bored.
Overall, I don’t really have anyone to recommend this too… not with all my heart. If you like the sound of the premise then give it a go its not super long and like I said its not a bad book…just not a great book.
Thank you to the author, NetGalley and Datura Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 7, 2024
3.5 stars
The nitty-gritty: A woman is thrust into a disturbing mystery when she loses all her memories, in this solid but sometimes confusing debut.
Stories about memory loss can go either way for me, but I’m happy to say The Glass Woman offered some unique ideas that made this trope feel different and fresh. This is a tense, emotional thriller, heavy on “emotion” and light on “thriller,” so if you enjoy slower stories that focus more on character development, this book might be a good fit. There were a few things that didn’t quite work for me, but I’ll explain more below.
Iris wakes up in a hospital bed with no memories of who or where she is. She’s surrounded by strangers, and one of them is a man named Marcus who claims to be her husband. The doctor says she’s recovering from a “procedure,” but he won’t give her any details about what that procedure was. Eventually she learns that she’s had an experimental AI device implanted in her brain, a device that will help monitor her past trauma and depression. The doctor also explains that she chose to have a traumatic memory removed permanently, and that eventually her other memories will return.
As Iris returns home and begins the process of getting to know her husband again, as flashes of her past start to surface. She also has to figure out how to live with Ariel, the AI that is now a part of her. But the more Iris remembers, the stranger things seem. Why won’t Ariel let her leave the house? What is behind the bookcase upstairs? And what happened to Teo, a disturbed man she meets in the hospital? Iris wants to remember everything, but she might not like the truth.
One of my favorite things about this book is the way the author handled interpersonal relationships. Because Iris has lost her memories and doesn’t even recognize the people around her, it was fun to watch her interact with these “strangers” and see their relationships unfold. The best example is, of course, her husband Marcus. She’s stuck in a house with a stranger and has to figure out how to live with him, and I felt her pain and confusion as she tried to be the Iris Marcus remembered, but struggling because she doesn’t remember anything about their relationship. Even when Marcus shows her wedding photos, Iris doesn’t know whether to believe her eyes or not. Could the photos be faked? Certainly. But Iris just doesn’t know, so the reader feels unsettled right along with her.
The Glass Woman is full of vibes: creepy vibes, mystery vibes, and most of all, an underlying sense that everything in Iris’s life in wrong. From the first paragraph, the reader is thrown into this mystery of what happened to Iris, the horrible thing in her past she wanted to forget, and whether or not the strangers around her are telling the truth or not. In a nutshell, this book made me very uncomfortable, and I suspect that’s what the author was going for. I felt terrible for Iris, because not only has she lost all her memories, she’s being controlled by Ariel, who does awful things to her at times. For example, if Iris tries to leave the house, Ariel causes her to lose consciousness or become nauseous so she’s forced to stop. One scene in particular was extremely dark, at least in my opinion. Without revealing too many details, it involves a sex scene between Iris and Marcus (and Ariel), and let’s just say it crossed the line in regards to consent. As hard as it was to read, I applaud the author for pulling off such a well done scene.
So yes, the vibes are strong, and McIlroy’s writing is top notch. But for me, the story was more “vibe” than plot, and I struggled to make sense of what was happening at times. Some of the reveals were way too vague, as the author uses broad strokes to explain things. When you’re reading a mystery and dying to find out what’s really going on, the answers—when you finally get them—need to be clear. A lot of the answers are implied rather than explained, which lessened the impact for me.
I also wanted to mention that I immediately guessed the “horrible memory” that was taken away from Iris, and I was disappointed that the other didn't choose something less obvious. As for the final twist at the end, it felt a bit overly complicated to me as a lot of things had to be explained.
Having said that, though, I loved the way McIlroy ended her story. After everything is revealed, Iris has some ethical decisions to make, and I loved the way that played out. There’s an emotional punch at the end that relates to the freedom to make your own choices, and it resonated nicely with earlier parts of the story. I’m glad I had the chance to read The Glass Woman, and I’ll be curious to read Alice McIlroy’s next book.
Big thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy.
The nitty-gritty: A woman is thrust into a disturbing mystery when she loses all her memories, in this solid but sometimes confusing debut.
Stories about memory loss can go either way for me, but I’m happy to say The Glass Woman offered some unique ideas that made this trope feel different and fresh. This is a tense, emotional thriller, heavy on “emotion” and light on “thriller,” so if you enjoy slower stories that focus more on character development, this book might be a good fit. There were a few things that didn’t quite work for me, but I’ll explain more below.
Iris wakes up in a hospital bed with no memories of who or where she is. She’s surrounded by strangers, and one of them is a man named Marcus who claims to be her husband. The doctor says she’s recovering from a “procedure,” but he won’t give her any details about what that procedure was. Eventually she learns that she’s had an experimental AI device implanted in her brain, a device that will help monitor her past trauma and depression. The doctor also explains that she chose to have a traumatic memory removed permanently, and that eventually her other memories will return.
As Iris returns home and begins the process of getting to know her husband again, as flashes of her past start to surface. She also has to figure out how to live with Ariel, the AI that is now a part of her. But the more Iris remembers, the stranger things seem. Why won’t Ariel let her leave the house? What is behind the bookcase upstairs? And what happened to Teo, a disturbed man she meets in the hospital? Iris wants to remember everything, but she might not like the truth.
One of my favorite things about this book is the way the author handled interpersonal relationships. Because Iris has lost her memories and doesn’t even recognize the people around her, it was fun to watch her interact with these “strangers” and see their relationships unfold. The best example is, of course, her husband Marcus. She’s stuck in a house with a stranger and has to figure out how to live with him, and I felt her pain and confusion as she tried to be the Iris Marcus remembered, but struggling because she doesn’t remember anything about their relationship. Even when Marcus shows her wedding photos, Iris doesn’t know whether to believe her eyes or not. Could the photos be faked? Certainly. But Iris just doesn’t know, so the reader feels unsettled right along with her.
The Glass Woman is full of vibes: creepy vibes, mystery vibes, and most of all, an underlying sense that everything in Iris’s life in wrong. From the first paragraph, the reader is thrown into this mystery of what happened to Iris, the horrible thing in her past she wanted to forget, and whether or not the strangers around her are telling the truth or not. In a nutshell, this book made me very uncomfortable, and I suspect that’s what the author was going for. I felt terrible for Iris, because not only has she lost all her memories, she’s being controlled by Ariel, who does awful things to her at times. For example, if Iris tries to leave the house, Ariel causes her to lose consciousness or become nauseous so she’s forced to stop. One scene in particular was extremely dark, at least in my opinion. Without revealing too many details, it involves a sex scene between Iris and Marcus (and Ariel), and let’s just say it crossed the line in regards to consent. As hard as it was to read, I applaud the author for pulling off such a well done scene.
So yes, the vibes are strong, and McIlroy’s writing is top notch. But for me, the story was more “vibe” than plot, and I struggled to make sense of what was happening at times. Some of the reveals were way too vague, as the author uses broad strokes to explain things. When you’re reading a mystery and dying to find out what’s really going on, the answers—when you finally get them—need to be clear. A lot of the answers are implied rather than explained, which lessened the impact for me.
I also wanted to mention that I immediately guessed the “horrible memory” that was taken away from Iris, and I was disappointed that the other didn't choose something less obvious. As for the final twist at the end, it felt a bit overly complicated to me as a lot of things had to be explained.
Having said that, though, I loved the way McIlroy ended her story. After everything is revealed, Iris has some ethical decisions to make, and I loved the way that played out. There’s an emotional punch at the end that relates to the freedom to make your own choices, and it resonated nicely with earlier parts of the story. I’m glad I had the chance to read The Glass Woman, and I’ll be curious to read Alice McIlroy’s next book.
Big thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy.
January 5, 2024
Iris is in hospital with no memories.
Before my proper review of The Glass Woman, I feel compelled to comment on how the book is written as much as on what is written. Alice McIroy employs a fantastic style. Her writing is intelligent and nuanced, balanced with perfect poise between beautiful description that is visual and appealing, and stark, concise, taut prose that heightens tension. This sensation is enhanced by realistic speech, wonderful variety of sentence structure and length, and a meticulous vocabulary that is utterly convincing. All these elements combine so that The Glass Woman is edgy, sophisticated in style and heart-thumping to read. There’s also a physical and psychological claustrophobia as Iris finds herself in hospital, and then back home with Marcus, enhanced by the reduced number of characters in Iris’s life.
I found Iris a character who held my attention from the very beginning. She’s a wonderful example of imperfect humanity and the importance of retaining that imperfection. As Alice McIroy examines the concept of memory and its place in identity alongside the potential impact of AI and medicinal advance, the more terrifying the story becomes through Iris’s experiences. Iris truly is a glass woman who might just shatter emotionally or physically at any moment. I thought the changing pronoun from I to you as Iris is shown long lost memories was a stroke of genius because it illustrated the unreliability of memory and distanced the present Iris from her pre Ariel past self.
The plot of The Glass Woman simply races along. Short chapters that drip feed information to the reader in much the same way Iris is given details add pace and drama so that this becomes a narrative that is impossible to put down. I felt completely ensnared by Alice McIlroy’s story. It’s impossible to say too much about what happens as this will spoil the story for others, but if I say I had been unable to concentrate on reading for a while and found myself riveted by The Glass Woman, you’ll have an idea!
Part science-fiction, part horror, part drama and part psychological thriller The Glass Woman is a story that defies categorisation. Its themes resonate with dilemma, with thought-provoking consideration of the morality of medical advance in the world, and with compelling consideration of the self and how we define ourselves not just to others, but to ourselves too.
All these aspects make The Glass Woman unsettling, darkly realistic, chilling and disturbingly plausible. The Glass Woman is a book that I read with an all pervading sensation of barely suppressed terror and rage as I learned about what had happened in Iris’s life. The story lingers long after it’s been read, challenging the reader’s own perceptions of morality and of what they’ve just read. In short, I thought The Glass Woman was an absolute triumph and possibly one of the best books you’ll read this year!
Before my proper review of The Glass Woman, I feel compelled to comment on how the book is written as much as on what is written. Alice McIroy employs a fantastic style. Her writing is intelligent and nuanced, balanced with perfect poise between beautiful description that is visual and appealing, and stark, concise, taut prose that heightens tension. This sensation is enhanced by realistic speech, wonderful variety of sentence structure and length, and a meticulous vocabulary that is utterly convincing. All these elements combine so that The Glass Woman is edgy, sophisticated in style and heart-thumping to read. There’s also a physical and psychological claustrophobia as Iris finds herself in hospital, and then back home with Marcus, enhanced by the reduced number of characters in Iris’s life.
I found Iris a character who held my attention from the very beginning. She’s a wonderful example of imperfect humanity and the importance of retaining that imperfection. As Alice McIroy examines the concept of memory and its place in identity alongside the potential impact of AI and medicinal advance, the more terrifying the story becomes through Iris’s experiences. Iris truly is a glass woman who might just shatter emotionally or physically at any moment. I thought the changing pronoun from I to you as Iris is shown long lost memories was a stroke of genius because it illustrated the unreliability of memory and distanced the present Iris from her pre Ariel past self.
The plot of The Glass Woman simply races along. Short chapters that drip feed information to the reader in much the same way Iris is given details add pace and drama so that this becomes a narrative that is impossible to put down. I felt completely ensnared by Alice McIlroy’s story. It’s impossible to say too much about what happens as this will spoil the story for others, but if I say I had been unable to concentrate on reading for a while and found myself riveted by The Glass Woman, you’ll have an idea!
Part science-fiction, part horror, part drama and part psychological thriller The Glass Woman is a story that defies categorisation. Its themes resonate with dilemma, with thought-provoking consideration of the morality of medical advance in the world, and with compelling consideration of the self and how we define ourselves not just to others, but to ourselves too.
All these aspects make The Glass Woman unsettling, darkly realistic, chilling and disturbingly plausible. The Glass Woman is a book that I read with an all pervading sensation of barely suppressed terror and rage as I learned about what had happened in Iris’s life. The story lingers long after it’s been read, challenging the reader’s own perceptions of morality and of what they’ve just read. In short, I thought The Glass Woman was an absolute triumph and possibly one of the best books you’ll read this year!
January 25, 2024
I loved this book - the complexity of both the storyline and the topics it covers. I felt like I was on a journey with Iris - trying to work out who I could trust (could I trust her?), what the motives of various characters were and why certain events might be significant. It is very cleverly written, invoking feelings of claustrophobia, tension and suspense as I turned the pages and navigated the various twists and turns....What a debut novel!
April 18, 2023
Fantastic book. Think Memento meets ex-Machina!
Thrilling from the start to the end - I read it in a day. I loved how it made me think about the tech of today and tomorrow and how it's already shaping our psychology. It was brilliantly challenging and the character development and pacing were great as well. Highly recommend
Thrilling from the start to the end - I read it in a day. I loved how it made me think about the tech of today and tomorrow and how it's already shaping our psychology. It was brilliantly challenging and the character development and pacing were great as well. Highly recommend
February 4, 2024
This was a bit predictable and I was extremely confused at times but I really enjoyed the AI/technology twist to the thriller genre and this was a decent debut.
December 28, 2023
If you are looking to start the new year with a thought provoking read, you need to add this to your TBR.
I’m a bit on the fence with AI, but this book plants me firmly on the ‘nope’ side, Iris’s experience sounds terrifying! One voice in my head is enough!
I really enjoyed this, it’s a slow burning of a book as we learn what has happened and why, for me this was intensified by Iris diary entries. There are some untrustworthy characters and my opinions changed on them throughout.
A fantastic debut and I’m looking forward to reading more by the author.
I’m a bit on the fence with AI, but this book plants me firmly on the ‘nope’ side, Iris’s experience sounds terrifying! One voice in my head is enough!
I really enjoyed this, it’s a slow burning of a book as we learn what has happened and why, for me this was intensified by Iris diary entries. There are some untrustworthy characters and my opinions changed on them throughout.
A fantastic debut and I’m looking forward to reading more by the author.
January 13, 2024
Imagine waking, not knowing where you are, or even who you are. This is the reality facing Iris. As momentous as that is, it becomes apparent that this is the least of her worries.
As the book starts, Iris has had an innovative, invasive procedure, which aims to help patients struggling with extreme depression. The objective being to safely remove the damaging memories, and associated feelings, that prove to be overwhelmingly detrimental. The book explores risk versus reward, how much of ourselves are we prepared to gamble.
It is a current, thought provoking read, for many reasons, least of which the long reaching effects of AI. It’s uses going forward is a huge, and very important ongoing conversation.
Iris is such an interesting character. She is clearly strong, curious, intelligent, and imperfect, as we all are. I do not envy Iris her predicament, but I adore her tenacity and spirit.
Apart from the obvious AI storyline, it is also a very human tale of loss; of Iris’ efforts to find what she has lost, what was taken. Her desperation to fill a void that she knows exists, but proves elusive to pinpoint.
As a genre, I really enjoy speculative fiction. For those not au fait with this increasingly popular style of writing, in my mind, I see it as being near dystopian. In which a reality is not quite ours, but it feels so plausible, so close, that we are just a few questionable decisions from this alternative landscape. This is why I find this genre so interesting. It helps us to explore future possibilities, and to question our own thoughts, which all good writing should do.
The Glass Woman is an unnerving speculative thriller. It is a strong, assured and very relevant debut. The author’s writing is beautiful, elegant, lyrical, but also dark and chilling all at once. I very much look forward to whatever Alice writes next.
As the book starts, Iris has had an innovative, invasive procedure, which aims to help patients struggling with extreme depression. The objective being to safely remove the damaging memories, and associated feelings, that prove to be overwhelmingly detrimental. The book explores risk versus reward, how much of ourselves are we prepared to gamble.
It is a current, thought provoking read, for many reasons, least of which the long reaching effects of AI. It’s uses going forward is a huge, and very important ongoing conversation.
Iris is such an interesting character. She is clearly strong, curious, intelligent, and imperfect, as we all are. I do not envy Iris her predicament, but I adore her tenacity and spirit.
Apart from the obvious AI storyline, it is also a very human tale of loss; of Iris’ efforts to find what she has lost, what was taken. Her desperation to fill a void that she knows exists, but proves elusive to pinpoint.
As a genre, I really enjoy speculative fiction. For those not au fait with this increasingly popular style of writing, in my mind, I see it as being near dystopian. In which a reality is not quite ours, but it feels so plausible, so close, that we are just a few questionable decisions from this alternative landscape. This is why I find this genre so interesting. It helps us to explore future possibilities, and to question our own thoughts, which all good writing should do.
The Glass Woman is an unnerving speculative thriller. It is a strong, assured and very relevant debut. The author’s writing is beautiful, elegant, lyrical, but also dark and chilling all at once. I very much look forward to whatever Alice writes next.
November 21, 2023
Loved this thought provoking AI thriller from with an unusual perspective of AI control. Alice McIlroy has given the reader a writing style that plunges you deep into an enclosed space, trapped inside the brain. Iris wakes to find she has an implanted AI. Supposedly helping her recover. But from what? What can she trust is actually true of herself, her past and those around her?So begins a race against time to escape. But how do you escape when every thought is being monitored, every action is observed and controlled, and every memory is questionable? Thank you to Datura and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
December 4, 2023
3.5 - 4
To be honest, they had me at Black Mirror. As regular readers of my blog may know: compare a book to that show and I’m there for it with bells on. Truth be told, that doesn’t always work out, it’s an easy reference to make but the Black Mirror vibe I crave is not always as present as I’d like. Fortunately, that wasn’t the case with The Glass Woman. As a matter of fact, I think this would make a great episode!
The Glass Woman follows Iris who wakes up in a hospital room after some sort of AI device has been implanted into her brain to make her forget traumatic memories. The thing is, when she wakes up, she suffers from retrograde amnesia, so she can remember very little at all. Who even is she? Who is the man claiming to be her husband? Why on earth would she sign up for this type of treatment? She has a limited timeframe to recover her unwittingly lost memories, before the AI in her mind is fully integrated and they’ll be lost forever. And obviously, if you can’t remember what was so traumatising that you wanted it out of your head forever, all you can think about is what it might have been.
The Glass Woman is rather light on the technical details, and to be honest, that’s usually the way I prefer my technological / sci-fi thrillers. I don’t need to be bombarded with loads of scientific details, I am not science-minded at all. Moreover, bar a few exceptions such as Blake Crouch, when things get too technical, I feel it’s often to the detriment of the story.
The Glass Woman was a rather claustrophobic read for me, because you spend so much time in Iris’s mind, there are few other characters and you never know what’s going on with any of them, only Iris. You don’t know if she’s paranoid or absolutely right to be afraid, but her scared and confused thoughts and snippets of memories add to the feeling of claustrophobia.
Then again, who wouldn’t be scared or paranoid? I read lots of horror novels, none of them are even remotely as scary as what happens to Iris. The only voice I want in my head is my own, thank you very much. (It’s hard enough to make that one shut up 😬😂) So who wouldn’t flip out when there’s suddenly a presence in your head that wasn’t there before. Telling you what to remember, what to forget, what to do and what not to. While the person who should have your back, your other half, is being evasive at best and secretive at worst. And who the hell is Dorian?! Omnipresent, yet never seen. It drove me crazy!
When I’m caught up in a book, I usually have at least one working theory, often I have multiple. The Glass Woman? None. I had no idea what was going on and it annoyed me to no end. I did not have the faintest idea where this story might end up. I had no choice but to follow where it led, and man, it was down one hell of a dark and twisty little backstreet.
I had a really good time with The Glass Woman, even if it did get on my nerves that I couldn’t make sense of things. The Glass Woman is a thought-provoking and entertaining psychological / technological thriller and an impressive debut. I can’t wait to find out what this author will do next.
Massive thanks to Datura Books and NetGalley for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
To be honest, they had me at Black Mirror. As regular readers of my blog may know: compare a book to that show and I’m there for it with bells on. Truth be told, that doesn’t always work out, it’s an easy reference to make but the Black Mirror vibe I crave is not always as present as I’d like. Fortunately, that wasn’t the case with The Glass Woman. As a matter of fact, I think this would make a great episode!
The Glass Woman follows Iris who wakes up in a hospital room after some sort of AI device has been implanted into her brain to make her forget traumatic memories. The thing is, when she wakes up, she suffers from retrograde amnesia, so she can remember very little at all. Who even is she? Who is the man claiming to be her husband? Why on earth would she sign up for this type of treatment? She has a limited timeframe to recover her unwittingly lost memories, before the AI in her mind is fully integrated and they’ll be lost forever. And obviously, if you can’t remember what was so traumatising that you wanted it out of your head forever, all you can think about is what it might have been.
The Glass Woman is rather light on the technical details, and to be honest, that’s usually the way I prefer my technological / sci-fi thrillers. I don’t need to be bombarded with loads of scientific details, I am not science-minded at all. Moreover, bar a few exceptions such as Blake Crouch, when things get too technical, I feel it’s often to the detriment of the story.
The Glass Woman was a rather claustrophobic read for me, because you spend so much time in Iris’s mind, there are few other characters and you never know what’s going on with any of them, only Iris. You don’t know if she’s paranoid or absolutely right to be afraid, but her scared and confused thoughts and snippets of memories add to the feeling of claustrophobia.
Then again, who wouldn’t be scared or paranoid? I read lots of horror novels, none of them are even remotely as scary as what happens to Iris. The only voice I want in my head is my own, thank you very much. (It’s hard enough to make that one shut up 😬😂) So who wouldn’t flip out when there’s suddenly a presence in your head that wasn’t there before. Telling you what to remember, what to forget, what to do and what not to. While the person who should have your back, your other half, is being evasive at best and secretive at worst. And who the hell is Dorian?! Omnipresent, yet never seen. It drove me crazy!
When I’m caught up in a book, I usually have at least one working theory, often I have multiple. The Glass Woman? None. I had no idea what was going on and it annoyed me to no end. I did not have the faintest idea where this story might end up. I had no choice but to follow where it led, and man, it was down one hell of a dark and twisty little backstreet.
I had a really good time with The Glass Woman, even if it did get on my nerves that I couldn’t make sense of things. The Glass Woman is a thought-provoking and entertaining psychological / technological thriller and an impressive debut. I can’t wait to find out what this author will do next.
Massive thanks to Datura Books and NetGalley for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
February 26, 2024
3.5 upped to 4
A distopyc techno-thriller that talks about memories, AI impacts on our life and a lot of twists.
My main issue was with the AI as I work in high tech and some parts seemed a bit fantasy to me.
As for the story is a bit slow and confusing at times but it kept me reading and the solution surprised me
There's potential and the author is a good storyteller
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
A distopyc techno-thriller that talks about memories, AI impacts on our life and a lot of twists.
My main issue was with the AI as I work in high tech and some parts seemed a bit fantasy to me.
As for the story is a bit slow and confusing at times but it kept me reading and the solution surprised me
There's potential and the author is a good storyteller
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
July 14, 2024
I'm sorry but this was really really bad :/ I was holding on because the plot seemed very cool but..... No
January 21, 2024
Memory loss is very disconcerting. I was unnerved for Iris in her predicament. But there is something niggling Iris. Why did she want her memories wiping? What was so bad that she wanted 5 years of memories removing in ground breaking surgery? She came over as someone who was nice, someone who wanted to make the world better with her research.
Told entirely from Iris’ perspective, I was never sure whether I could trust her given the adjustments to her thoughts, memories and the intervention of the AI therapy. Iris’ thought processes were fragmented with the medication she was taking and the AI therapist which I’ve got to say was an interesting interaction and rather unsettling. How much control did this AI have over Iris?
I didn’t know what to make of Marcus – could I trust him? I get he was trying to protect his fragile vulnerable wife who’s recovering from major surgery but there was something he wasn’t sharing. That sort of behaviour makes me suspicious. What’s he hiding? Am I being overly mistrusting of this man?
There is a very near future dystopian feel to the book with realistic unnerving vibes. Could neurological science take the leap to tampering with memories? Is it ethical? Should science take that step – for me it’s a no, even in some of the scenarios mentioned in the book. Our memories make us who we are both good and bad. We learn from them
I can see why it’s been likened to Before I Go To Sleep and Black Mirror. The lack of memory, the husband I want to trust but I’m not 100% sure. The dystopian sci-fi speculative style of thriller. McIlroy has written a very unsettling thriller with a thought provoking slant. Its blooming brilliant as a debut. Seriously accomplished in its themes. Loved it!
Told entirely from Iris’ perspective, I was never sure whether I could trust her given the adjustments to her thoughts, memories and the intervention of the AI therapy. Iris’ thought processes were fragmented with the medication she was taking and the AI therapist which I’ve got to say was an interesting interaction and rather unsettling. How much control did this AI have over Iris?
I didn’t know what to make of Marcus – could I trust him? I get he was trying to protect his fragile vulnerable wife who’s recovering from major surgery but there was something he wasn’t sharing. That sort of behaviour makes me suspicious. What’s he hiding? Am I being overly mistrusting of this man?
There is a very near future dystopian feel to the book with realistic unnerving vibes. Could neurological science take the leap to tampering with memories? Is it ethical? Should science take that step – for me it’s a no, even in some of the scenarios mentioned in the book. Our memories make us who we are both good and bad. We learn from them
I can see why it’s been likened to Before I Go To Sleep and Black Mirror. The lack of memory, the husband I want to trust but I’m not 100% sure. The dystopian sci-fi speculative style of thriller. McIlroy has written a very unsettling thriller with a thought provoking slant. Its blooming brilliant as a debut. Seriously accomplished in its themes. Loved it!
December 27, 2023
Thank you so much to the author @alicemcilroy_author and Datura Books @daturabooks for a copy of this one and a spot on this tour. All thoughts are my own.
Iris decides to be her first test subject to a brain altering AI device that will erase select memories. The problem is, now that Iris has lost her memories, she doesn’t remember signing up for this, or why she would volunteer to do it.
Everyone around her warns her to leave it alone, but Iris is persistent and doesn’t know who to trust. As she scratches the surface of her marriage and career, a catastrophic chain of events is set in motion.
This one was so good and so much fun to read! Over the summer my husband and I binged all of black mirror so when I heard of this book being similar, I knew I needed to read it, and I was not disappointed. While I figured out the “twist” fairly early I still found the read enjoyable. This book really went deep into character development when it came to the main character as the book was entirely about her, however the side characters we didn’t learn a ton about. This did work for the book as Iris and her procedure were very entertaining and thought provoking. I appreciated that while the procedure, the implantation of an AI chip, was very technical, the author didn’t go very deep into the tech side of things. I feel that too often authors bog us down with details we don’t need for the story, so this was refreshing. The writing was nice, and I loved how the story flowed and the speculation that was left was amazing. The story was more literary in nature, and I enjoyed it.
If you are looking for a fun book focusing on amnesia then check this one out.
Iris decides to be her first test subject to a brain altering AI device that will erase select memories. The problem is, now that Iris has lost her memories, she doesn’t remember signing up for this, or why she would volunteer to do it.
Everyone around her warns her to leave it alone, but Iris is persistent and doesn’t know who to trust. As she scratches the surface of her marriage and career, a catastrophic chain of events is set in motion.
This one was so good and so much fun to read! Over the summer my husband and I binged all of black mirror so when I heard of this book being similar, I knew I needed to read it, and I was not disappointed. While I figured out the “twist” fairly early I still found the read enjoyable. This book really went deep into character development when it came to the main character as the book was entirely about her, however the side characters we didn’t learn a ton about. This did work for the book as Iris and her procedure were very entertaining and thought provoking. I appreciated that while the procedure, the implantation of an AI chip, was very technical, the author didn’t go very deep into the tech side of things. I feel that too often authors bog us down with details we don’t need for the story, so this was refreshing. The writing was nice, and I loved how the story flowed and the speculation that was left was amazing. The story was more literary in nature, and I enjoyed it.
If you are looking for a fun book focusing on amnesia then check this one out.
January 16, 2024
The Glass Woman, by Alice McIlroy
Rating: 5/5
Published: Now
‘Waking is like wading through deep water. I am half within my body and half without. I look down at this body I inhabit – it is dressed in a crumpled blue cotton gown. Pain, which starts in my head with a drilling sensation, spreads.’
The Glass Woman is absolutely incredible. I had to cancel plans to read more of this book, because I was so adamant to find out what was going on (hehe!) Iris wakes in a hospital room with amnesia. She is informed that she is the first human test subject for a neurological chip that has been implanted in her brain. It was designed to erase painful and traumatic memories, and to allow patients to have a fresh start at life. Her husband, Marcus (or so she is told) appears at her side, and reassures her that everything is fine. However, everything is NOT fine. From the first page, you become immediately aware that something is not right. She is being lied to, but cannot prove it, because she cannot remember anything. The implant in her brain is activated, and Iris is told that it will act as a therapist, but it slowly infiltrates her subconscious. It takes control sometimes, despite her being told that such a thing is impossible. The Glass Woman will have you on the edge of your seat throughout. It is a thrilling read, and absolutely brilliant. I did not know who to trust, and I loved how McIlroy draws you in. Her style of writing is particularly otherworldly too, which worked brilliantly.
Rating: 5/5
Published: Now
‘Waking is like wading through deep water. I am half within my body and half without. I look down at this body I inhabit – it is dressed in a crumpled blue cotton gown. Pain, which starts in my head with a drilling sensation, spreads.’
The Glass Woman is absolutely incredible. I had to cancel plans to read more of this book, because I was so adamant to find out what was going on (hehe!) Iris wakes in a hospital room with amnesia. She is informed that she is the first human test subject for a neurological chip that has been implanted in her brain. It was designed to erase painful and traumatic memories, and to allow patients to have a fresh start at life. Her husband, Marcus (or so she is told) appears at her side, and reassures her that everything is fine. However, everything is NOT fine. From the first page, you become immediately aware that something is not right. She is being lied to, but cannot prove it, because she cannot remember anything. The implant in her brain is activated, and Iris is told that it will act as a therapist, but it slowly infiltrates her subconscious. It takes control sometimes, despite her being told that such a thing is impossible. The Glass Woman will have you on the edge of your seat throughout. It is a thrilling read, and absolutely brilliant. I did not know who to trust, and I loved how McIlroy draws you in. Her style of writing is particularly otherworldly too, which worked brilliantly.
April 19, 2024
At the beginning of the 20th century Fowler, discussing what he called “Airs and Graces,” wrote that “It is scarcely necessary to warn any one against over-indulgence in intentional metaphor.” Well, either they don’t teach Fowler any longer or Alice McIlroy cut those classes. In chapter 8 of The Glass Woman, the reader encounters
“the vast London metropolis: the labyrinthine mess of streets, the crush of people, the giant crocus of the sky. Briefly, the sun shines down from above, illuminating the buildings all around with falling light.
“In the streets, there are so many people: a swarm that populate the footpath, overflowing into the road. Umbrellas form a canopy from the indifferent rain. I study the sea of faces as we pass, looking for someone familiar. The crowd moves as one, like poppies blown on the breeze, the upturned heads of flowers on a market stall. As soon as I begin to make out features, the crowd renews; a million atoms in the dullness of the afternoon.”
She’s not all that great at the non-labyrinthine elements of the English language either. On the first page of chapter 11 we read “Photos of Marcus and I” doubled down on a few sentences later with “inviting Marcus and I”. I am deeply annoyed by this sort of writing and quit there. Not recommended. For anyone.
“the vast London metropolis: the labyrinthine mess of streets, the crush of people, the giant crocus of the sky. Briefly, the sun shines down from above, illuminating the buildings all around with falling light.
“In the streets, there are so many people: a swarm that populate the footpath, overflowing into the road. Umbrellas form a canopy from the indifferent rain. I study the sea of faces as we pass, looking for someone familiar. The crowd moves as one, like poppies blown on the breeze, the upturned heads of flowers on a market stall. As soon as I begin to make out features, the crowd renews; a million atoms in the dullness of the afternoon.”
She’s not all that great at the non-labyrinthine elements of the English language either. On the first page of chapter 11 we read “Photos of Marcus and I” doubled down on a few sentences later with “inviting Marcus and I”. I am deeply annoyed by this sort of writing and quit there. Not recommended. For anyone.
November 13, 2023
Every now and then you read a book that you know you won’t forget and well this was most certainly one of those I loved it.
The story had so much to give and give it did over and over again with style, empathy and some wonderful writing.
The story line is completely absorbing as the main character Iris wakes to find all her memories have been erased and a AI device planted in her brain, who did this and why, will she get her memories back this is the question and oh boy it’s a big question and a fantastic story that I read in just over a day mainly as I just couldn’t put the book down ! The whole read is a thought provoking one they really set my mind reeling and a very topical one also. The conclusion was deeply satisfying and as I have said this is a book I won’t forget and at some point I will read it again.
So a book I would highly recommend and many, many thanks to Alice McIlroy for a superb 5 star read.
My thanks also to NetGalley and Datura Books for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
The story had so much to give and give it did over and over again with style, empathy and some wonderful writing.
The story line is completely absorbing as the main character Iris wakes to find all her memories have been erased and a AI device planted in her brain, who did this and why, will she get her memories back this is the question and oh boy it’s a big question and a fantastic story that I read in just over a day mainly as I just couldn’t put the book down ! The whole read is a thought provoking one they really set my mind reeling and a very topical one also. The conclusion was deeply satisfying and as I have said this is a book I won’t forget and at some point I will read it again.
So a book I would highly recommend and many, many thanks to Alice McIlroy for a superb 5 star read.
My thanks also to NetGalley and Datura Books for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
December 16, 2023
Well that was one CAPTIVATING book! I haven't read a thriller in a while and i feel like this just got me obsessed with them again. From the first page right up to the last it was just all consuming. I honestly ponder how people can come up with such incredible stories that entice you in that much. Alice's writing was amazing because it just drew me in and gave the book such a tense atmosphere. I wouldn't say I've read a sci-fi type book like this before but it gave the book a unique storyline to most thrillers I've read and felt really original. I felt for Iris at times during this book because she clearly was so confused as to how she got in that position but when the truth prevailed poor Marcus was probably the one I had the most sympathy for! I really liked the pacing of this book and how the big secrets were coming out gradually making the reader want to keep not wanting to put the book down. I honestly LOVED reading this book and it made me remember why I fell in love with reading again.
June 14, 2023
An absolutely riveting book. I've been fascinated by the rapid rise in AI as a topic of interest in the world media at present. Respected historian and philosopher, Noah Yuval Harari has recently said that political leaders have not been speaking about some of the most pressing issues of our time: the rise of AI; nuclear power and energy; and climate change. Here is a book which deals with such an important and topical issue and frames it within a compelling fictional story. I couldn't put the book down and was gripped from start to finish. The book poses profoundly important questions concerning memory and identity, objective reality and AI generated truth, love and loss. I loved this book and would recommend it to anyone seeking something which reaches beyond much of the (in my opinion) indifferent contemporary fiction being published at the moment.
October 8, 2023
What a fantastic read! Devoured in a day. Would have finished it in 1 sitting but at 1am and with work in the morning, it was time to get some sleep.
A book about a woman who was an AI implanted into her brain to suppress a previous traumatic experience - what could go wrong?
Unsettling, creepy and filled with suspense. You have no idea if anyone can be trusted, even the protagonist! A timely book that delves deep into the ethics of artificial intelligence and the potential consequences of using them. Loved it!
Thank you NetGalley and Datura for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
A book about a woman who was an AI implanted into her brain to suppress a previous traumatic experience - what could go wrong?
Unsettling, creepy and filled with suspense. You have no idea if anyone can be trusted, even the protagonist! A timely book that delves deep into the ethics of artificial intelligence and the potential consequences of using them. Loved it!
Thank you NetGalley and Datura for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
February 21, 2025
3/5
Another book that I had to go back to twice before I could get past the first couple of chapters.
I was actually very excited as I finally got into the story itself. The mystery and (possible) gaslighting that tantalizingly wove its way through the science aspect really drove me to keep reading even though I did not care for the author’s style.
The science was fascinating- I love stretching my brain on occasion 😉
The mystery was intriguing until… I just felt like it all fell flat.
Am I glad I read this book? Yes because there were some interesting ideas.
Would I recommend it? Probably not. A lot of potential that just felt lost.
Another book that I had to go back to twice before I could get past the first couple of chapters.
I was actually very excited as I finally got into the story itself. The mystery and (possible) gaslighting that tantalizingly wove its way through the science aspect really drove me to keep reading even though I did not care for the author’s style.
The science was fascinating- I love stretching my brain on occasion 😉
The mystery was intriguing until… I just felt like it all fell flat.
Am I glad I read this book? Yes because there were some interesting ideas.
Would I recommend it? Probably not. A lot of potential that just felt lost.
September 30, 2023
Medical AI thriller that blows your mind!
Iris has no idea who she is, or what is going on, when she awakes from a medical procedure. What follows is an amazing story as she discovers the truth behind the artificial intelligence research of which she is a part of.
I loved this book, second guessing every page who to trust, and what their motives were. Scary look at where science with questionable ethics could lead!
Iris has no idea who she is, or what is going on, when she awakes from a medical procedure. What follows is an amazing story as she discovers the truth behind the artificial intelligence research of which she is a part of.
I loved this book, second guessing every page who to trust, and what their motives were. Scary look at where science with questionable ethics could lead!
March 8, 2024
The book started well but I soon realised it was going to be a slow read. It was quite repetitive with no twist or turns. I don’t mind sci-fi/AI genres but this was very predictable, especially the ending. I don’t recommend but if you want something easy to read and follow, or to take your mind off life around you, then give it a try.
November 15, 2023
I loved the synopsis of this book and couldn't wait to read it. I absolutely loved it. It was gripping and terrifying in equal measure.
January 18, 2024
AD/PR - I’m realising that I absolutely love a scifi thriller!! Particularly with AI and tech themes. They don’t feel too futuristic with how advanced technology is now and I enjoy the scary plausibility and exploration of humans and AI themes. I came across The Glass Woman on Insta and literally gatecrashed my way onto a tour that was already set up because I wanted to read it so bad 😂😂.
I’ll start by saying what a debut!! Alice shows talent and originality in writing something as groundbreaking as The Glass Woman! If you’re into the idea of AI or a newbie to scifi, or even a thriller fan wanting something different but a bit intimidated/put off by the “scifi” side, then The Glass Woman is an amazing place to start. It’s light on the tech/science side so there’s no big complex concepts or maths etc to get your head around. It’s way more of a thriller with how dark, twisty and gripping it is! It’s basically a psychological thriller with a side of plausible AI tech! Is this helping anyone or am I rambling?! 😂😂. What I’m trying to say is that I LOVE what Alice has done in balancing a cross between scifi and thriller and making it accessible!
I’ll say nothing about plot (other than the synopsis - swipe to read) cos I’d spoil it. I went in knowing only that and it made for the best experience. It’s like you ARE Iris. She wakes up with no memory in a random clinic with a random man saying he’s her husband and she chose this. Then there’s a weird robot nurse and a doctor giving serious creepy vibes. You’re just as confused as Iris and you experience every emotion and discovery with her. I genuinely felt scared and claustrophobic because I was so inside her mind. I couldn’t stop reading for answers! You discover revelations and unravel threads as she does. It’s very well done and a real immersive and interactive reading experience. Thoroughly recommend!
I’ll start by saying what a debut!! Alice shows talent and originality in writing something as groundbreaking as The Glass Woman! If you’re into the idea of AI or a newbie to scifi, or even a thriller fan wanting something different but a bit intimidated/put off by the “scifi” side, then The Glass Woman is an amazing place to start. It’s light on the tech/science side so there’s no big complex concepts or maths etc to get your head around. It’s way more of a thriller with how dark, twisty and gripping it is! It’s basically a psychological thriller with a side of plausible AI tech! Is this helping anyone or am I rambling?! 😂😂. What I’m trying to say is that I LOVE what Alice has done in balancing a cross between scifi and thriller and making it accessible!
I’ll say nothing about plot (other than the synopsis - swipe to read) cos I’d spoil it. I went in knowing only that and it made for the best experience. It’s like you ARE Iris. She wakes up with no memory in a random clinic with a random man saying he’s her husband and she chose this. Then there’s a weird robot nurse and a doctor giving serious creepy vibes. You’re just as confused as Iris and you experience every emotion and discovery with her. I genuinely felt scared and claustrophobic because I was so inside her mind. I couldn’t stop reading for answers! You discover revelations and unravel threads as she does. It’s very well done and a real immersive and interactive reading experience. Thoroughly recommend!
August 25, 2025
Thank you to Datura for sending me a copy of The Glass Woman by Alice Mcllroy to review.
We follow Iris who has just awoken in a hospital bed and has no idea who she is or of the last 5 years of her life. She’s been told she volunteered for a ground breaking AI technology trial. But did she really? As we progress through the story things aren’t quite adding up, is she really happily married? Was this really what she wanted? Will all this digging lead Iris to a happy ending or something worse.
This was probably the most interesting and most frustrating read for me so far this year.
The concept was very interesting and also scary, integrating AI into your subconscious that pretty much controls how you feel and what you remember. In some ways it could help people with PTSD, trauma etc, but then power like this in the wrong hands…
I think what I found frustrating throughout was Iris’ anxiety and fear, it felt like every time she felt it everyone around her was so nonchalant and didn’t seem to care or worry. The AI being more important than the actual human being.
The mystery side of things is what kept me hooked, I kept wanting to know more and more.
The twists were a little predictable but more so as you go along than chapters before. Speaking of I also loved the short chapter spacing.
Overall a good read for those that love the mystery aspect and technology.
We follow Iris who has just awoken in a hospital bed and has no idea who she is or of the last 5 years of her life. She’s been told she volunteered for a ground breaking AI technology trial. But did she really? As we progress through the story things aren’t quite adding up, is she really happily married? Was this really what she wanted? Will all this digging lead Iris to a happy ending or something worse.
This was probably the most interesting and most frustrating read for me so far this year.
The concept was very interesting and also scary, integrating AI into your subconscious that pretty much controls how you feel and what you remember. In some ways it could help people with PTSD, trauma etc, but then power like this in the wrong hands…
I think what I found frustrating throughout was Iris’ anxiety and fear, it felt like every time she felt it everyone around her was so nonchalant and didn’t seem to care or worry. The AI being more important than the actual human being.
The mystery side of things is what kept me hooked, I kept wanting to know more and more.
The twists were a little predictable but more so as you go along than chapters before. Speaking of I also loved the short chapter spacing.
Overall a good read for those that love the mystery aspect and technology.
April 2, 2024
The premise of the story was really intriguing and I enjoyed the book over all. That being said, there were a few things that didn’t work for me.
Some world building aspects, particularly the technology, felt too convenient at times. The way the tech was used to move the plot forward wasn’t always convincing for me.
While most of the writing was well done, some descriptions felt overdone. I think this type of story would’ve been a bit better with a more consistently fast paced writing style.
All that being said, I did like this story overall and felt entertained the whole time I was reading it. The premise was thought provoking and raised a lot of good questions about AI and ethics. I’m interested to see what Alice Mcllroy writes next.
Some world building aspects, particularly the technology, felt too convenient at times. The way the tech was used to move the plot forward wasn’t always convincing for me.
While most of the writing was well done, some descriptions felt overdone. I think this type of story would’ve been a bit better with a more consistently fast paced writing style.
All that being said, I did like this story overall and felt entertained the whole time I was reading it. The premise was thought provoking and raised a lot of good questions about AI and ethics. I’m interested to see what Alice Mcllroy writes next.
March 18, 2024
Black mirror meets Before I go to sleep.
Loved the writing style; nuanced, mysterious, thrilling. I felt like I couldn't put the book down and loved that I didn't guess the ending correctly!
The mix between science-fiction, horror and psychological thriller was particularly interesting to me. Beneath the tension, there are a lot of thought-provoking questions being asked, social commentary and political themes, but these aren't too obvious.
To conclude; a compelling, eerie read that I can't stop thinking about!
Loved the writing style; nuanced, mysterious, thrilling. I felt like I couldn't put the book down and loved that I didn't guess the ending correctly!
The mix between science-fiction, horror and psychological thriller was particularly interesting to me. Beneath the tension, there are a lot of thought-provoking questions being asked, social commentary and political themes, but these aren't too obvious.
To conclude; a compelling, eerie read that I can't stop thinking about!
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