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The Sleepless
What if I told you that sleep was just a habit? What if the third of your life you spend asleep, you could be awake instead?
Grafton is a single dad who works in local radio, but he’s always dreamt of being a ‘real’ journalist. When he gets a whiff of a story – a Scottish commune whose residents believe that sleep is a social construct – he decides to investigate… something tells him ‘the Sleepless’ might finally provide answers about his wife, Liz, who abandoned him and their son Isaac for a similar cult in India.
However Grafton finds the truth of the commune is much more sinister and its governance thirsts for blood, using torturous methods to keep its followers weak…
As Grafton is drawn deeper into the extreme world of the Sleepless, Liz reappears, and Grafton has to race to save both himself and his son…
Are there ideals strong enough to compel a mother to leave her young child and husband?
And will history repeat when the husband starts to learn more? In The Sleepless, the struggle between blood ties and a powerful cult is laid bare.
"The Sleepless is a dazzlingly smart and compelling thriller, which will grip you from its unforgettable opening scene and will linger with you long after you have finished it. Liam Bell is a writer of rare and distinctive talent, and this is a novel not to be missed. These are characters and situations – vividly rendered, unsettlingly plausible even at their most terrifying – which will haunt you, a novel which will keep you up all night. " -Ellery Lloyd, author of People Like Her and Reese's Book Club pick The Club
A page-turning thriller with a folk horror atmosphere, The Sleepless will appeal to readers of Emma Cline’s The Girls and Fred D’Aguiar’s Children of Paradise.
Grafton is a single dad who works in local radio, but he’s always dreamt of being a ‘real’ journalist. When he gets a whiff of a story – a Scottish commune whose residents believe that sleep is a social construct – he decides to investigate… something tells him ‘the Sleepless’ might finally provide answers about his wife, Liz, who abandoned him and their son Isaac for a similar cult in India.
However Grafton finds the truth of the commune is much more sinister and its governance thirsts for blood, using torturous methods to keep its followers weak…
As Grafton is drawn deeper into the extreme world of the Sleepless, Liz reappears, and Grafton has to race to save both himself and his son…
Are there ideals strong enough to compel a mother to leave her young child and husband?
And will history repeat when the husband starts to learn more? In The Sleepless, the struggle between blood ties and a powerful cult is laid bare.
"The Sleepless is a dazzlingly smart and compelling thriller, which will grip you from its unforgettable opening scene and will linger with you long after you have finished it. Liam Bell is a writer of rare and distinctive talent, and this is a novel not to be missed. These are characters and situations – vividly rendered, unsettlingly plausible even at their most terrifying – which will haunt you, a novel which will keep you up all night. " -Ellery Lloyd, author of People Like Her and Reese's Book Club pick The Club
A page-turning thriller with a folk horror atmosphere, The Sleepless will appeal to readers of Emma Cline’s The Girls and Fred D’Aguiar’s Children of Paradise.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 29, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
October 7, 2023
Wow this book was good! It’s well written, the concept is brilliant and the pacing perfectly done. A great psychological thriller.
I think the way the author wrote and created the commune was so well done - it really showed how cults can draw people in and people find themselves deeply involved without meaning to be. And the lengths a cult will go to, to prevent disciples from escaping.
All of these characters were imperfect; they had faults and strengths and this made it hard to like any of them (with the exception of Isaac) but that only added to the uneasiness created by the whole novel.
I think the plot behind this book was really unique, I loved that it played into modern behaviours around sleep and the constant battle to find more time.
The story ending left me with all the creepy feels and this is definitely not a story where the bad guys get their come-uppance.
This was a great psychological thriller which ironically might prevent me from sleeping for a while 😂
I think the way the author wrote and created the commune was so well done - it really showed how cults can draw people in and people find themselves deeply involved without meaning to be. And the lengths a cult will go to, to prevent disciples from escaping.
All of these characters were imperfect; they had faults and strengths and this made it hard to like any of them (with the exception of Isaac) but that only added to the uneasiness created by the whole novel.
I think the plot behind this book was really unique, I loved that it played into modern behaviours around sleep and the constant battle to find more time.
The story ending left me with all the creepy feels and this is definitely not a story where the bad guys get their come-uppance.
This was a great psychological thriller which ironically might prevent me from sleeping for a while 😂
October 24, 2023
I jumped at trying to get onto this book tour because I love cult books. I’ve always been so interested in what makes a person decide to join a cult. The cult’s beliefs were intriguing, and it seemed harmless enough until I kept reading. There were a few scenes that made me grimace but that is just because I am squeamish.
This book is told in multiple points of view. It felt a little slow burn-ish, and it lead up to some very suspenseful scenes towards the end. At that point, I was rushing through the page because I wanted to know how it was going to end. So I think this is best described as a slow burning page turner!
This book is told in multiple points of view. It felt a little slow burn-ish, and it lead up to some very suspenseful scenes towards the end. At that point, I was rushing through the page because I wanted to know how it was going to end. So I think this is best described as a slow burning page turner!
October 16, 2023
‘The Sleepless’ is a really great thriller! It has everything you need - gripping story, genuine suspense, flawed but believable characters. I couldn’t put it down, it was so gripping. It’s the kind of book you stay up really late reading and then can’t sleep because you keep thinking about it.
This book actually really unsettled me which is exactly what a psychological thriller should do. This is a fantastic book and I’d recommend it to anyone who likes to read thrillers.
I received a gifted copy of this novel. This review is my honest opinion and written voluntarily.
This book actually really unsettled me which is exactly what a psychological thriller should do. This is a fantastic book and I’d recommend it to anyone who likes to read thrillers.
I received a gifted copy of this novel. This review is my honest opinion and written voluntarily.
October 25, 2023
🎉BOOK TOUR STOP ALERT 🎉
The Sleepless by Liam Bell
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to @lovebookstours for my gifted copy.
My thoughts: Wow! That opening chapter was wild, brutal and brillant. To be fully immersed in these characters’ struggle to stay awake-to rid themselves of sleep, I was so invested in Tom, Liv & Isaac plus the commune! Set in Scotland, the location descriptions were so hauntingly real so much that I felt like I was there! It starts a little slow but the buildup totally pays off at the end. Well done!
Blurb
What if I told you that sleep was just a habit? What if the third of your life you spend asleep, you could be awake instead?
Grafton is a single dad who works in local radio, but he’s always dreamt of being a ‘real’ journalist. When he gets a whiff of a story – a Scottish commune whose residents believe that sleep is a social construct – he decides to investigate… something tells him ‘the Sleepless’ might finally provide answers about his wife, Liz, who abandoned him and their son Isaac for a similar cult in India.
Born out of COVID-19’s age of ‘alternative truths’, this commune set in Ardnamurchan, Scotland, rejects societal routines of sleep with the aim of achieving a toxin cleanse, a nirvana of sorts...
However Grafton finds the truth of the commune is much more sinister and its governance thirsts for blood, using torturous methods to keep its followers weak…
As Grafton is drawn deeper into the extreme world of the Sleepless, Liz reappears, and Grafton has to race to save both himself and his son…
#booktour #ad #lovebookstours #lbtcrew #gifted #bookhive #booktwitter #bookworm #bookclubs #bibliophile #bookreview #bookdragon #bookstagram #books #booklover #booknerd #bookaddict #bookishlove #readersgonnaread #readersofinstagram #bookclub #goodreads #prettybooks #bookfeature #booksbooksbooks #booktime #bookcommunity #itsnothoardingifitsbooks
The Sleepless by Liam Bell
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to @lovebookstours for my gifted copy.
My thoughts: Wow! That opening chapter was wild, brutal and brillant. To be fully immersed in these characters’ struggle to stay awake-to rid themselves of sleep, I was so invested in Tom, Liv & Isaac plus the commune! Set in Scotland, the location descriptions were so hauntingly real so much that I felt like I was there! It starts a little slow but the buildup totally pays off at the end. Well done!
Blurb
What if I told you that sleep was just a habit? What if the third of your life you spend asleep, you could be awake instead?
Grafton is a single dad who works in local radio, but he’s always dreamt of being a ‘real’ journalist. When he gets a whiff of a story – a Scottish commune whose residents believe that sleep is a social construct – he decides to investigate… something tells him ‘the Sleepless’ might finally provide answers about his wife, Liz, who abandoned him and their son Isaac for a similar cult in India.
Born out of COVID-19’s age of ‘alternative truths’, this commune set in Ardnamurchan, Scotland, rejects societal routines of sleep with the aim of achieving a toxin cleanse, a nirvana of sorts...
However Grafton finds the truth of the commune is much more sinister and its governance thirsts for blood, using torturous methods to keep its followers weak…
As Grafton is drawn deeper into the extreme world of the Sleepless, Liz reappears, and Grafton has to race to save both himself and his son…
#booktour #ad #lovebookstours #lbtcrew #gifted #bookhive #booktwitter #bookworm #bookclubs #bibliophile #bookreview #bookdragon #bookstagram #books #booklover #booknerd #bookaddict #bookishlove #readersgonnaread #readersofinstagram #bookclub #goodreads #prettybooks #bookfeature #booksbooksbooks #booktime #bookcommunity #itsnothoardingifitsbooks
October 27, 2023
This was my first book by this author and my first cult novel. I’ve watched cult shows before, though, and I usually enjoy them. There is an atmospheric unease to them that is scarier than most other thrillers, and this chilling read is no exception.
Like most cult stories, this is an incredibly atmospheric read. Full of beach scenes that are far from sunny and nice, and descriptions of events that will likely haunt you long after you turn the last page. I think the scariest thing of all is just how convincing the cult in this book actually is, though. How many of us have thought “if I just had a few more hours in my day.” And they’re promising you as many as you can steal back from sleeping. Certainly sounds tempting to me. Or it would, if I hadn’t already been going through a long bout of insomnia. I’m barely clocking four hours a night these days, and I’m calling BS on this one cult peeps.
There were a few times when the pacing felt a little slow, but the story was compelling enough that I really needed to know what was happening. Or what was going to happen. This was another story where all of the characters were incredibly flawed and not very lovable. Several of them had growth arcs, and some had redemption stories. And the ending left me very unsettled, which is something I think the best thrillers often do.
Who’s It For?
If you love cult stories, this is a winner for you. Also, if you love a good atmospheric, psychological thrill ride, pick this one up. However, there are several trigger warnings you should be aware of before you do so.
Content Warnings: This book contains the following content that may be disturbing to some readers including, but not limited to, Alcohol abuse, Drug Abuse, Sexual Assault, Graphic Violence, Torture, Sleep Deprivation, Child Abandonment, Starvation, Food Deprivation, Child Neglect, and Child Abuse.
Like most cult stories, this is an incredibly atmospheric read. Full of beach scenes that are far from sunny and nice, and descriptions of events that will likely haunt you long after you turn the last page. I think the scariest thing of all is just how convincing the cult in this book actually is, though. How many of us have thought “if I just had a few more hours in my day.” And they’re promising you as many as you can steal back from sleeping. Certainly sounds tempting to me. Or it would, if I hadn’t already been going through a long bout of insomnia. I’m barely clocking four hours a night these days, and I’m calling BS on this one cult peeps.
There were a few times when the pacing felt a little slow, but the story was compelling enough that I really needed to know what was happening. Or what was going to happen. This was another story where all of the characters were incredibly flawed and not very lovable. Several of them had growth arcs, and some had redemption stories. And the ending left me very unsettled, which is something I think the best thrillers often do.
Who’s It For?
If you love cult stories, this is a winner for you. Also, if you love a good atmospheric, psychological thrill ride, pick this one up. However, there are several trigger warnings you should be aware of before you do so.
Content Warnings: This book contains the following content that may be disturbing to some readers including, but not limited to, Alcohol abuse, Drug Abuse, Sexual Assault, Graphic Violence, Torture, Sleep Deprivation, Child Abandonment, Starvation, Food Deprivation, Child Neglect, and Child Abuse.
October 22, 2023
What if I told you that sleep was just a habit? What if the third of your life you spend asleep, you could be awake instead?
The fact that we lose so much of our life asleep and the ability to reclaim those hours back in order to leave our lives to the fullest is such an ingenious concept. In The Sleepless, we are introduced to a cult of some sort that aims to train people to reclaim those wasted hours in sleep and to utilise them in mindfulness and use them to achieve their best.
We meet Grafton and his teenage son, Isaac. We learn that Liz, Grafton's wife left home to follow in the cult teachings of Swami Ravi in sleeplessness eight years ago. There is so much vulnerability in these characters, including those who are at the head of the cult. On some level every single character is being manipulated by something or someone. Or is sleep the master manipulator of them all? Making decisions and coping with change has always been hard for Grafton and the sleep deprivation he experiences when he enters the cult, looking for his estranged wife in an offshoot commune in Ardnamurchan, Scotland. The impact of sleeplessness seems almost like a mirror image of all those parts of Grafton's life that he has previously grappled with. There are studies that suggest a lack of sleep leads to neurological damage in the hippocampus, which controls learning and memory. And I wonder of this is why Liz tried to retrace her steps back to Grafton in Isaac: to retain the memories of a family that she had long lost? Was she waking up or was Grafton letting go of his past?
The fact that we lose so much of our life asleep and the ability to reclaim those hours back in order to leave our lives to the fullest is such an ingenious concept. In The Sleepless, we are introduced to a cult of some sort that aims to train people to reclaim those wasted hours in sleep and to utilise them in mindfulness and use them to achieve their best.
We meet Grafton and his teenage son, Isaac. We learn that Liz, Grafton's wife left home to follow in the cult teachings of Swami Ravi in sleeplessness eight years ago. There is so much vulnerability in these characters, including those who are at the head of the cult. On some level every single character is being manipulated by something or someone. Or is sleep the master manipulator of them all? Making decisions and coping with change has always been hard for Grafton and the sleep deprivation he experiences when he enters the cult, looking for his estranged wife in an offshoot commune in Ardnamurchan, Scotland. The impact of sleeplessness seems almost like a mirror image of all those parts of Grafton's life that he has previously grappled with. There are studies that suggest a lack of sleep leads to neurological damage in the hippocampus, which controls learning and memory. And I wonder of this is why Liz tried to retrace her steps back to Grafton in Isaac: to retain the memories of a family that she had long lost? Was she waking up or was Grafton letting go of his past?
September 29, 2023
Thriller that pulls you in
Grafton, a travel reporter on a local radio, hears a few moments of a chat show. The caller is from a cult who believe that society are being conned into believing they need more sleep than they do. This stirs memories and emotions for Grafton, as well as the idea that he could be onto an exciting story, which would further his career, and might help him reconnect with his wife who left long before.
Leaving his 17 year old son, Isaac, at home, he sets off to infiltrate the cult and get himself a story. Alternating chapters between Isaac at home and Grafton joining the cult, excitement and interest mounts. I really wanted to know what was going to happen next, and found it interesting to read about the people in the cult and how they reacted to various events.
The prologue was a bit violent for me – however this is a fast moving story full of intrigue, excitement and therefore worth the unpleasant bit at the front – but it did set the scene well. The writing was great, kept me reading a bit more than I had time for, and I was always keen to return to the story.
So good I nearly missed getting off a long distance train at my stop! I was reading this at a time of great grief and sadness, and this book really gave me an escape at the end of each day. Therefore 5*s and a big thank you to the author (and Fly on the Wall Press) for a thriller that really took me away from the world around me.
Grafton, a travel reporter on a local radio, hears a few moments of a chat show. The caller is from a cult who believe that society are being conned into believing they need more sleep than they do. This stirs memories and emotions for Grafton, as well as the idea that he could be onto an exciting story, which would further his career, and might help him reconnect with his wife who left long before.
Leaving his 17 year old son, Isaac, at home, he sets off to infiltrate the cult and get himself a story. Alternating chapters between Isaac at home and Grafton joining the cult, excitement and interest mounts. I really wanted to know what was going to happen next, and found it interesting to read about the people in the cult and how they reacted to various events.
The prologue was a bit violent for me – however this is a fast moving story full of intrigue, excitement and therefore worth the unpleasant bit at the front – but it did set the scene well. The writing was great, kept me reading a bit more than I had time for, and I was always keen to return to the story.
So good I nearly missed getting off a long distance train at my stop! I was reading this at a time of great grief and sadness, and this book really gave me an escape at the end of each day. Therefore 5*s and a big thank you to the author (and Fly on the Wall Press) for a thriller that really took me away from the world around me.
October 20, 2023
3.5 ⭐/5
In short, this book is about a cult that believes sleep is unnecessary, just something we've all been conditioned to need. So when a journalist hears about a small commune of the Sleepless living in a remote corner of Scotland, he knows there's a story there. He sets off in search of a headline, and maybe more.
I was immediately drawn in by this premise. I've always had a fascination with cults and how people can be drawn in by a charismatic leader. Personally the leader would have to be downright hypnotic for me to be lured in because I love my sleep, but I liked this idea. Especially in a day and age where science is screaming certain facts at the world and some still say nope, wrong.
The story is told from the POV of three main characters, so it jumps between them as they learn about this community of Sleepless (the commune is nicknamed Seattle by the locals, a detail that made me cackle). It was a testament to the writing that while I didn't find these characters loveable, I still felt invested in their fates. Especially as the action heated up. I caught myself holding my breath a couple of times as I raced through the pages!
This is a psychological thriller, so it was a bit of a slow burn to begin, but then the creepy mood started really seeping in. I became a bit sleepless myself because I absolutely couldn't go to bed before seeing how it all ended. If you're in the mood for a thriller with a cult, some bad decisions, and a bit of gore, this might fit the bill!
I received a gifted copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
In short, this book is about a cult that believes sleep is unnecessary, just something we've all been conditioned to need. So when a journalist hears about a small commune of the Sleepless living in a remote corner of Scotland, he knows there's a story there. He sets off in search of a headline, and maybe more.
I was immediately drawn in by this premise. I've always had a fascination with cults and how people can be drawn in by a charismatic leader. Personally the leader would have to be downright hypnotic for me to be lured in because I love my sleep, but I liked this idea. Especially in a day and age where science is screaming certain facts at the world and some still say nope, wrong.
The story is told from the POV of three main characters, so it jumps between them as they learn about this community of Sleepless (the commune is nicknamed Seattle by the locals, a detail that made me cackle). It was a testament to the writing that while I didn't find these characters loveable, I still felt invested in their fates. Especially as the action heated up. I caught myself holding my breath a couple of times as I raced through the pages!
This is a psychological thriller, so it was a bit of a slow burn to begin, but then the creepy mood started really seeping in. I became a bit sleepless myself because I absolutely couldn't go to bed before seeing how it all ended. If you're in the mood for a thriller with a cult, some bad decisions, and a bit of gore, this might fit the bill!
I received a gifted copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
October 27, 2023
" [...] We're slaves to sleep. All of us. And no one thinks to wake us up. [...]"
The book "The Sleepless" by Liam Bell consists of two parts. We meet, among others, radio journalist Grafton, his son Isaac and the group of "Sleepless".
This thriller only had me hooked from the middle of the book. The first part dragged on like a snail. It made me want to put this novel on the shelf, but I wouldn't be myself if I didn't give the book a second chance. And I did the right thing, because it continued to get better. I wasn't bored any more. A more interesting and engaging action has appeared. It's a pity it wasn't like that from the very beginning.
Do you think our body needs sleep? Is this just propaganda?
Will our journalist Tom Grafton leave his comfort zone and discover the real scandal? Will he be in danger? Who belongs to the "Sleepless" group? Find answers to these and many other questions in Liam Bell's book "The Sleepless".
Joan - she really irritated me. This character is a real demon. The perfect leader of a certain sect. Will her plan come true? You wouldn't want to meet her on your way.
Liz - This is another character that made me feel extremely emotional. I didn't understand why she suddenly disappeared from the life of her son and husband. Of course, as the pages went on, everything became clear.
Are you ready for the arrival of the "Sleepless" sect?
I am very curious about other novels by this author.
The book "The Sleepless" by Liam Bell consists of two parts. We meet, among others, radio journalist Grafton, his son Isaac and the group of "Sleepless".
This thriller only had me hooked from the middle of the book. The first part dragged on like a snail. It made me want to put this novel on the shelf, but I wouldn't be myself if I didn't give the book a second chance. And I did the right thing, because it continued to get better. I wasn't bored any more. A more interesting and engaging action has appeared. It's a pity it wasn't like that from the very beginning.
Do you think our body needs sleep? Is this just propaganda?
Will our journalist Tom Grafton leave his comfort zone and discover the real scandal? Will he be in danger? Who belongs to the "Sleepless" group? Find answers to these and many other questions in Liam Bell's book "The Sleepless".
Joan - she really irritated me. This character is a real demon. The perfect leader of a certain sect. Will her plan come true? You wouldn't want to meet her on your way.
Liz - This is another character that made me feel extremely emotional. I didn't understand why she suddenly disappeared from the life of her son and husband. Of course, as the pages went on, everything became clear.
Are you ready for the arrival of the "Sleepless" sect?
I am very curious about other novels by this author.
October 18, 2023
This is my first book by this author and I knew I had to read it when I saw the blurb and what the topic was.
I am absolutely fascinated by cults of any kind. I listen to loads of podcasts about them so definitely had to read this, even being fiction. I really enjoyed this book. I wanted to help the characters realise but that’s the whole point of these groups and the isolation they are drawn in to.
I didn’t really connect with the characters but I appreciated that. I couldn’t relate to the situation they had entered in to but they had joined a cult so it was well written. I know the characters were vulnerable and susceptible to manipulation. That’s what trauma does to people. I know how cults work and can see how people end up there but they also see the bad and are scared. It’s not an answer. Also, I personally love sleep and happy use a third of my life for it! I think this was well written and the author did a great job of the characters and the book overall. It was wrapped up but the end could lead to a further book and I would definitely read it. It was a really great read for this time of year.
I will definitely read more from this author. If you like cults and creepy and atmospheric books then give this a go!
Thank you to @liambell_writes @flyonthewallpress and @lovebookstours for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
I am absolutely fascinated by cults of any kind. I listen to loads of podcasts about them so definitely had to read this, even being fiction. I really enjoyed this book. I wanted to help the characters realise but that’s the whole point of these groups and the isolation they are drawn in to.
I didn’t really connect with the characters but I appreciated that. I couldn’t relate to the situation they had entered in to but they had joined a cult so it was well written. I know the characters were vulnerable and susceptible to manipulation. That’s what trauma does to people. I know how cults work and can see how people end up there but they also see the bad and are scared. It’s not an answer. Also, I personally love sleep and happy use a third of my life for it! I think this was well written and the author did a great job of the characters and the book overall. It was wrapped up but the end could lead to a further book and I would definitely read it. It was a really great read for this time of year.
I will definitely read more from this author. If you like cults and creepy and atmospheric books then give this a go!
Thank you to @liambell_writes @flyonthewallpress and @lovebookstours for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 20, 2023
I was really intrigued by the premise of this book and it had a lot of things to tempt me. I'm a sucker for books set in Scotland, and I love a good thriller. I'm a huge fan of sleep and never get enough, so the idea of shunning it and keeping wakeful made me shudder! It's a really interesting concept, though, and I'm fascinated by the idea of cults and how they operate and draw people in. The pacing was variable, and there were some very tense moments, including one that made me feel very sick! Grafton and Isaac and their backstory were well written and a definite hook. I struggled to get my head around Liz's character and would love to delve into her psyche a bit more. I think there are some very troubled souls in this cult! The methods used by the cult were bizarre indeed, and I don't know how Grafton had the balls to investigate! It's well written and the right mix between compelling and grim, but I was left feeling a little disappointed with the ending. I wanted to know more about the outcome of Joan's campaign and was left with lots of questions. How on earth did she do what she did? What is the Amber liquid? What actually happens after day 12? It's a good read, but definitely not for the squeamish!!
October 26, 2023
The blurb and topic intrigued me, so I had to read this book by Liam Bell.
Grafton has been raising his son alone for 8 years after his wife Liz left them to join a sleepless cult. The cult is based on the belief that sleep is merely a social construct. Following a lead, he sets out to find Liz.
The aspect of a cult that believed sleep was overrated intrigued me, so I was excited to read this book. The way the main characters are explored and the seamless POV changes will leave you wanting more.
The concept of the 'Sleepless' cult was fascinating and the entire book was skillfully written, leaving you eager for more. I've always had a deep fascination with communes/cults and a morbid curiosity about their inner workings. The author's skillful use of vivid description and rich imagery draws me in, allowing me to feel the oppression and manipulation in a truly immersive way.
Many thanks to @liammurraybell @fly_press @KellyALacey @lovebookstours for the opportunity to read it and a spot on the tour.
Grafton has been raising his son alone for 8 years after his wife Liz left them to join a sleepless cult. The cult is based on the belief that sleep is merely a social construct. Following a lead, he sets out to find Liz.
The aspect of a cult that believed sleep was overrated intrigued me, so I was excited to read this book. The way the main characters are explored and the seamless POV changes will leave you wanting more.
The concept of the 'Sleepless' cult was fascinating and the entire book was skillfully written, leaving you eager for more. I've always had a deep fascination with communes/cults and a morbid curiosity about their inner workings. The author's skillful use of vivid description and rich imagery draws me in, allowing me to feel the oppression and manipulation in a truly immersive way.
Many thanks to @liammurraybell @fly_press @KellyALacey @lovebookstours for the opportunity to read it and a spot on the tour.
October 29, 2023
This book is one of those books that is just crazy enough that it could actually be true. There are so many groups, with the rise of them after COVID being rather steep and they are often based round something we would see as utter nonsense or conspiracies. Yet, there are people who long to see them be true, to a level that they do things that are pretty outlandish. This book taps into that and, honestly, it is scary. Kind of like the horror of the Hostel films, it is made even more packed with fear because it happens.
The author created a way of life that strikes fear and opposition into most people and then tossed a family in the midst of it and a wannabe journalist, who may not quite know the full brunt of the danger that lurks round the corner. With all that smashed together, elegantly crafted storyline and details and a great selection of characters, the author has created an absolutely brilliant read. I must say, I really enjoyed it, even if the thought of it made my skin itch.
The author created a way of life that strikes fear and opposition into most people and then tossed a family in the midst of it and a wannabe journalist, who may not quite know the full brunt of the danger that lurks round the corner. With all that smashed together, elegantly crafted storyline and details and a great selection of characters, the author has created an absolutely brilliant read. I must say, I really enjoyed it, even if the thought of it made my skin itch.
October 18, 2023
I found the The Sleepless by Liam Bell to be a great thriller read.
It has everything, gripping story, reasl suspense asnd very much flawed, but believable characters.
I could not put this down and flew through the read in two sittings. It definitely is the type of book that will have you staying up late reading, and even once you put it down to go to sleep, the story line will keep you thinking.
It can be unsettling in parts, which for me, is exactly what i look for in a psychological thriller.
Based in a commune / cult, all of these characters were imperfect, had faults but strengths also and I found it difficult to like any of them (with the exception of Isaac). This only adds to the uneasiness created by the novel as a whole.
I found this to be a fantastic book and I’d recommend it to anyone who likes to read thrillers.
A big five 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
It has everything, gripping story, reasl suspense asnd very much flawed, but believable characters.
I could not put this down and flew through the read in two sittings. It definitely is the type of book that will have you staying up late reading, and even once you put it down to go to sleep, the story line will keep you thinking.
It can be unsettling in parts, which for me, is exactly what i look for in a psychological thriller.
Based in a commune / cult, all of these characters were imperfect, had faults but strengths also and I found it difficult to like any of them (with the exception of Isaac). This only adds to the uneasiness created by the novel as a whole.
I found this to be a fantastic book and I’d recommend it to anyone who likes to read thrillers.
A big five 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
October 17, 2023
AD-PR PRODUCT
If you are a fan of cult books, then definitively check this book out.
Grafton has been a single Dad for 8 years since his wife Liz, left him and his son to join a cult who practice a life of sleeplessness. The idea behind the cult is that sleep is a social construct. He sets off to find Liz after a lead comes in.
This was an easy read and a really interesting concept for a cult. I would love to gain one third of my life and not have the need to sleep (think of all the extra books I could read!) but I will definitely not be joining this cult! 😂
There were no stand out characters for me but this didn’t detract from any enjoyment of the plot. I particularly loved the ending and I would love to see a second book!
If you are a fan of cult books, then definitively check this book out.
Grafton has been a single Dad for 8 years since his wife Liz, left him and his son to join a cult who practice a life of sleeplessness. The idea behind the cult is that sleep is a social construct. He sets off to find Liz after a lead comes in.
This was an easy read and a really interesting concept for a cult. I would love to gain one third of my life and not have the need to sleep (think of all the extra books I could read!) but I will definitely not be joining this cult! 😂
There were no stand out characters for me but this didn’t detract from any enjoyment of the plot. I particularly loved the ending and I would love to see a second book!
December 18, 2023
A very intriguing premise, but one I would never undertake because I love my sleep far too much.
The cult was a really interesting idea and I liked that it was approached in a different manner by the Scottish group. The varying perspectives of the work was good and I thought Isaac's view felt realistic, especially with the ending as it was.
It was a slow burn and I struggled to like Grafton (even when I was behind him) - I certainly questioned some of his parenting. I also found I was left with a lot of questions about things that had happened along the way.
Overall, a great look at the way cults can reel you in and the complexities behind their beliefs.
*I received a complimentary copy of the book from LoveBooksTours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The cult was a really interesting idea and I liked that it was approached in a different manner by the Scottish group. The varying perspectives of the work was good and I thought Isaac's view felt realistic, especially with the ending as it was.
It was a slow burn and I struggled to like Grafton (even when I was behind him) - I certainly questioned some of his parenting. I also found I was left with a lot of questions about things that had happened along the way.
Overall, a great look at the way cults can reel you in and the complexities behind their beliefs.
*I received a complimentary copy of the book from LoveBooksTours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
October 16, 2023
This was such a good read that I just couldn't put down it was absolutely gripping.
The book was well written with a compelling story line and well developed characters, who were all very relatable because they had flaws and were morally grey to say the least, but that's what made most, not all, of them so unlikable. It was because of this that they worked so well as they really contributed to the dark and creepy feel of the book, they honestly were fantastically developed.
I have always been fascinated by communes/cults and always wondered, and been horrified, about what they must be like. The author uses such vivid description and rich imagery that it is portrayed perfectly and was so immersive that I could feel the oppression and the manipulation like I was there, even I felt a bit drawn in just reading it.
This book made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up a few times but I just couldn't put it down.I loved it.
The book was well written with a compelling story line and well developed characters, who were all very relatable because they had flaws and were morally grey to say the least, but that's what made most, not all, of them so unlikable. It was because of this that they worked so well as they really contributed to the dark and creepy feel of the book, they honestly were fantastically developed.
I have always been fascinated by communes/cults and always wondered, and been horrified, about what they must be like. The author uses such vivid description and rich imagery that it is portrayed perfectly and was so immersive that I could feel the oppression and the manipulation like I was there, even I felt a bit drawn in just reading it.
This book made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up a few times but I just couldn't put it down.I loved it.
October 20, 2023
Another perfectly creepy, autumnal read that I couldn't put down!!
This is one of those stories that really creeps you out because of how realistic it comes across.
I've seen lots of cults/communes in films, books and on the news and it fascinates me what attracts people to them in the first place - and also what actually goes on inside.
I know this was somewhat manipulated for the story, but it felt totally believable and I think possibly because the writing was so immersive.
The descriptions totally transported me inside this strange world and I could not put this book down.
I loved that I didn't connect with many of the characters at all. Normally this isn't a great thing, but given the circumstances and the fact that most, if not all had their faults and we're morally grey at best, I feel that this really worked.
I raced through this and can't wait to see what this author does next - a great read.
This is one of those stories that really creeps you out because of how realistic it comes across.
I've seen lots of cults/communes in films, books and on the news and it fascinates me what attracts people to them in the first place - and also what actually goes on inside.
I know this was somewhat manipulated for the story, but it felt totally believable and I think possibly because the writing was so immersive.
The descriptions totally transported me inside this strange world and I could not put this book down.
I loved that I didn't connect with many of the characters at all. Normally this isn't a great thing, but given the circumstances and the fact that most, if not all had their faults and we're morally grey at best, I feel that this really worked.
I raced through this and can't wait to see what this author does next - a great read.
October 23, 2023
What a book! This was a fabulous read that delves into the world of a cult where people are taught that sleep is not a necessity; to sleep is weak. When Tom Grafton’s wife abandoned him and their son Isaac, she went to join a cult in India. Many years down the line and a similar cult has been established nearby. Ever hopeful that his wife Liz has returned, he goes undercover to investigate. Tom is a determined man who does what he thinks is best to try to expose the group, however he discovers there is more to the group than meets the eye. He must use all of his inner strength to resist their pull to protect himself and his son. I really like the characters of Tom and Isaac. Their love for each other is evident in their actions in dealing with the ‘Sleepless’ group. This book really got me thinking. What would the world be like if people really could program their bodies to not need sleep. This book is very well written and interesting. The plot is interesting and well developed. It moved at a good pace and was an easy read.
October 24, 2023
@liambell_writes has written this absolutely brilliant story that had me hooked from the start. I was so excited to read this book as I was so intrigued by the aspect of a cult that believed sleep was overrated. I liked the fact that you get an in-depth understanding of the main characters and are able to switch easily between the multiple POV with each chapter, leaving you wanting to read on to find out what happens next! Also, I thoroughly enjoyed the Scottish aspect of the story with being a Scottish lassie myself - and to see Ayrshire being mentioned (my home) and links to Glencoe (one of my favourite places) was just brilliant!
October 23, 2023
‘The Sleepless’ is a really great thriller! It has everything you need - gripping story, genuine suspense, flawed but believable characters. I couldn’t put it down, it was so gripping. It’s the kind of book you stay up really late reading and then can’t sleep because you keep thinking about it.
The writing skills of the author are really Captivating. It has been a very cozy read for me, You can say an unputdownable experience. I was engaged throughout the book without getting bored.
I will definitely recommend this book to fans of thriller, mystery, and suspense. Grab your copy today.
The writing skills of the author are really Captivating. It has been a very cozy read for me, You can say an unputdownable experience. I was engaged throughout the book without getting bored.
I will definitely recommend this book to fans of thriller, mystery, and suspense. Grab your copy today.
October 24, 2023
My honest thoughts:
Well true to its name the sleepless.. this book will keep you from sleeping, not as in it will give you nightmares, oh no far from it.. it will keep you from sleeping at all.
Its written so detailed and so gribbing, that it genuinely just gets you hooked from the first page. Even when you have to put it down, your thinking about whats gonna happen next. Making you wanna instantly grab it to be able to read on!
An excellent thriller that gets you thinking!!
Can you stay awake? 🤭😅
Well true to its name the sleepless.. this book will keep you from sleeping, not as in it will give you nightmares, oh no far from it.. it will keep you from sleeping at all.
Its written so detailed and so gribbing, that it genuinely just gets you hooked from the first page. Even when you have to put it down, your thinking about whats gonna happen next. Making you wanna instantly grab it to be able to read on!
An excellent thriller that gets you thinking!!
Can you stay awake? 🤭😅
October 16, 2023
This was a pretty gruesome read in places and if it were a film I’d definitely be hiding behind a cushion at points!
The concept behind ‘The Sleepless’ cult was quite intriguing and the whole book was well written making you want to keep reading on.
I have to say I didn’t really love/like any of the characters as they all had faults. At times I wanted to scream at some of them for being so stupid! But that’s the whole point of a book like this.
The concept behind ‘The Sleepless’ cult was quite intriguing and the whole book was well written making you want to keep reading on.
I have to say I didn’t really love/like any of the characters as they all had faults. At times I wanted to scream at some of them for being so stupid! But that’s the whole point of a book like this.
October 28, 2023
Anyone who knows me and my inability to sleep will know that I would be immediately drawn to this book. Let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint. It’s fast paced and tense, and it shows how easily people can be swayed and drawn into things, almost sleep walking into it. I could not put this book down, it was a compelling read. It wasn’t always an easy read either. Some parts seemed quite brutal and emotionally taxing. All in all though, a gripping and unnerving story. Highly recommended.
December 30, 2023
If you are one of those who love, love, love books with cults in them (I know there are people like that out there, I have seen people looking for those book recs), then this is the hottest new release! Yes, the book was spine-chilling and filled with suspense, and it was creepy too, but I think the way the cultish atmosphere and setting were portrayed there is something that really sets it apart.
November 1, 2023
Y'all this book was crazy. I love me a good thriller and this didn't disappoint!! It's a fast paced read and I couldn't put it down. This is the type of book that makes you think far after it's done. It just makes you wonder and sticks in your head. I am still going what did I read. I legit need y'all to go get this book !!!
October 16, 2023
I always enjoy a well-written cult story. My only frustration was with the haplessness of the main character, bumbling along trying to figure things out. But I guess in the end it made it feel like a normal person trying to cope with an extraordinary circumstance.
February 7, 2024
Finely Written!
This book is like a good meal where so much attention is being paid to all the ingredients. Each paragraph is written to be taken slowly like a super fine meal. And the story is entrancing taking you into a somewhat bizarre, dark and delightful world. Bravo!
This book is like a good meal where so much attention is being paid to all the ingredients. Each paragraph is written to be taken slowly like a super fine meal. And the story is entrancing taking you into a somewhat bizarre, dark and delightful world. Bravo!
June 27, 2024
This book really had me reading so fast! I was on the edge of seat trying to find out what was next! As per the ending was a cliff hanger which always frustrates me as I’m too impatient 😂 I like a real ending!
But really well written and a bit dark!
But really well written and a bit dark!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2023
I absolutely devoured this. Graftons wife Liz upped and left 8 years ago to go to India and join a cult based around wakefulness. Grafton raises his son and gets himself off the drink. He still looks for Liz and the 'guru' she left for. While working as the traffic man for local radio he hears a phone in from a commune on the west of Scotland. He heads there to try get a story and claim back his journalism career. Sleep deprivation, torture, cult, scottish...I mean what's not to love? I literally became one of the sleepless to finish this and can't wait to read more from Liam!
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