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The Book of You
A terrifying psychological thriller about obsession and power, perfect for fans of Gone Girl and Before I Go to Sleep.
Clarissa is becoming more and more frightened of her colleague, Rafe. He won’t leave her alone, and he refuses to take no for an answer. He is always there.
Being selected for jury service is a relief. The courtroom is a safe haven, a place where Rafe can’t be. But as a violent tale of kidnap and abuse unfolds, Clarissa begins to see parallels between her own situation and that of the young woman on the witness stand.
Realizing that she bears the burden of proof, Clarissa unravels the twisted, macabre fairytale that Rafe has spun around them – and discovers that the ending he envisions is more terrifying than she could have imagined.
Clarissa is becoming more and more frightened of her colleague, Rafe. He won’t leave her alone, and he refuses to take no for an answer. He is always there.
Being selected for jury service is a relief. The courtroom is a safe haven, a place where Rafe can’t be. But as a violent tale of kidnap and abuse unfolds, Clarissa begins to see parallels between her own situation and that of the young woman on the witness stand.
Realizing that she bears the burden of proof, Clarissa unravels the twisted, macabre fairytale that Rafe has spun around them – and discovers that the ending he envisions is more terrifying than she could have imagined.
361 pages, Paperback
First published April 3, 2014
549 people are currently reading
17662 people want to read
About the author
Claire Kendal
6 books415 followersClaire Kendal's first novel was THE BOOK OF YOU. It was a Sunday Times bestseller and a Richard & Judy Book Club pick. THE SECOND SISTER was published in 2017 and I SPY in 2019. Her fourth novel, MAKE YOU MINE, will be published in 2026. Claire teaches English Literature and Creative Writing, and lives in the South West of England with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,669 reviews
April 2, 2017
As a young girl I was taught to be polite- say please and thank you- be respectful of other people's feelings...and act like a lady. The problem with that kind of upbringing is...unfortunately living by those rules alone can get in the way of trusting your instincts and keeping yourself safe. Not everyone is deserving of respect. Not everyone plays by the rules. And sometimes acting like a lady can get you killed...
Clarissa Bourne, is a polite, well-mannered 38-year-old living in Bath, England and working at the university. She is still recovering from her recent break-up with her co-worker- Henry who has moved on to Cambridge, and she has drifted apart from most of her friends over the years. Her parents live in Brighton...but she doesn't like to bother them with her problems, and her one close friend left is her boss- Gary. So when things with Rafe Solmes- who works in the English department- become more than she can handle- she really feels like she has no one to turn to.
Clarissa didn't know Rafe Solmes very well, but he reeeeeeeeeeeeaaaally wanted her to attend a gathering at the bookshop for the launch of his new book- a study of fairy tales. Always the people pleaser, Clarissa- stands alone at the back drinking a glass of wine- waiting for him to finish his reading so she to can say goodnight and be on her way. Rafe doesn't want her to go just yet. Just stay a little longer...just one more glass of wine...please stay...Please.
...One glass of wine turns to two...walking her home...then upstairs to her apartment. Rafe- the seemingly concerned gentleman. Clarissa- polite as always not wanting to hurt his feelings- light-headed and confused. It's all a blur. The only thing that is clear the next morning is that Rafe is still there, things obviously went too far, and she doesn't want to see him ever again...
...But Rafe has a different view of things. He wants Clarissa to be his and will not take no for an answer. Soon he is everywhere.
Following her...
Calling at all hours...
Sending unwanted gifts...
Outside her door...
She finally goes to the police. They tell her- it's not enough. They need more to go on if they are to step in...So Clarissa starts a journal. She saves allllllllll the gifts, she writes alllllll the times and dates of each incident and alllllllll of her thoughts down...EVERYTHING! But when will enough be enough?
How long can she live like this? How long will Rafe let her live?
THE BOOK OF YOU- is written in journal form- which sometimes annoys me...but in this case- It worked! Clarissa's words drew me so far into the story that I read it in one sitting. It is frustrating at times, and oh sooooo creepy and disturbing. I read an article that Claire Kendal's inspiration for these characters came from- Clarissa by Samuel Richardson. Such a great debut! I can't wait to read more by this author and see what inspires her next.
Clarissa Bourne, is a polite, well-mannered 38-year-old living in Bath, England and working at the university. She is still recovering from her recent break-up with her co-worker- Henry who has moved on to Cambridge, and she has drifted apart from most of her friends over the years. Her parents live in Brighton...but she doesn't like to bother them with her problems, and her one close friend left is her boss- Gary. So when things with Rafe Solmes- who works in the English department- become more than she can handle- she really feels like she has no one to turn to.
Clarissa didn't know Rafe Solmes very well, but he reeeeeeeeeeeeaaaally wanted her to attend a gathering at the bookshop for the launch of his new book- a study of fairy tales. Always the people pleaser, Clarissa- stands alone at the back drinking a glass of wine- waiting for him to finish his reading so she to can say goodnight and be on her way. Rafe doesn't want her to go just yet. Just stay a little longer...just one more glass of wine...please stay...Please.
...One glass of wine turns to two...walking her home...then upstairs to her apartment. Rafe- the seemingly concerned gentleman. Clarissa- polite as always not wanting to hurt his feelings- light-headed and confused. It's all a blur. The only thing that is clear the next morning is that Rafe is still there, things obviously went too far, and she doesn't want to see him ever again...
...But Rafe has a different view of things. He wants Clarissa to be his and will not take no for an answer. Soon he is everywhere.
Following her...
Calling at all hours...
Sending unwanted gifts...
Outside her door...
She finally goes to the police. They tell her- it's not enough. They need more to go on if they are to step in...So Clarissa starts a journal. She saves allllllllll the gifts, she writes alllllll the times and dates of each incident and alllllllll of her thoughts down...EVERYTHING! But when will enough be enough?
How long can she live like this? How long will Rafe let her live?
THE BOOK OF YOU- is written in journal form- which sometimes annoys me...but in this case- It worked! Clarissa's words drew me so far into the story that I read it in one sitting. It is frustrating at times, and oh sooooo creepy and disturbing. I read an article that Claire Kendal's inspiration for these characters came from- Clarissa by Samuel Richardson. Such a great debut! I can't wait to read more by this author and see what inspires her next.
May 16, 2014
I feel bad giving this only two stars, because it started out really strong and had some great moments--I especially liked the creepy fairy tale book the stalker sent Clarissa and the discussion of the symbolic "burst heart." But, the plot really started to drag about a third of the way through and Clarissa's extreme passivity made her really hard for me personally to relate to. I understand that stalking victims often gradually feel isolated and like they have no one to turn to, but Clarissa's complete unwillingness to tell anyone anything about the stalker EVER really didn't feel realistic to me.
October 19, 2017
4 Stars
The Book of You follows Clarissa as she tries to avoid, and evade the unwanted attention she is receiving from a work colleague, Rafe. The author wastes no time diving into this story and from chapter one the readers are acutely aware that Clarissa is the victim of an EXTREME stalker. The feeling of frustration and helplessness is palpable as Clarissa attempts to gain evidence and support so that she can just go to the police without being turned away. Apparently word of mouth is not enough evidence so Clarissa starts collecting his letters to her, presents, taking photos of him watching her and keeping a detailed journal of every encounter she has with this creep. The amount of hoops that this woman has to jump through just so she can go to a police station and a file report without being laughed out the building is infuriating! And to make the readers even more acutely aware of the helplessness sexual assault victims feel, Clarissa is given jury duty on a case that juxtaposes her own life. Now the readers get to see that even when you report acts of sexual abuse and make it into a court room you still have to deal with victim blaming and slut shaming by prosecuting lawyers and a judgemental jury.
I fully disagree with every review that found Clarissa frustrating as a victim. All those reviews that complain about her isolating or not reporting sooner. I think what sexual assault trials in the real world have taught us is that women tend to blame themselves right off the bat. If a man touches us inappropriately the first thought in our minds are; what did I do to provoke that? How did I lead him on? The amount of self doubt Clarissa was riddled with was infuriating but absolutely realistic. Of course I wish all my protagonists were badass bitches that were so self assured that if creep like Rafe tried something on them they would cut off his favourite organ but it's just not realistic.
The Book of You read more like True Crime then a fictitious thriller. There was something so realistic about this tale that just completely magnified my emotions through out this novel. I think I felt everything from sadness, to fury, to joy. I was completely on Clarissa's side from day one. I wanted to intergrade myself into this story so I could be her confidante, her defender, to fucking punch Rafe in his smug sociopathic face! I recommend this read for those who want a haunting look at being a helpless victim but it is graphic, realistic and dark so layer up on that thick skin because this is an amazing but tough read.
The Book of You follows Clarissa as she tries to avoid, and evade the unwanted attention she is receiving from a work colleague, Rafe. The author wastes no time diving into this story and from chapter one the readers are acutely aware that Clarissa is the victim of an EXTREME stalker. The feeling of frustration and helplessness is palpable as Clarissa attempts to gain evidence and support so that she can just go to the police without being turned away. Apparently word of mouth is not enough evidence so Clarissa starts collecting his letters to her, presents, taking photos of him watching her and keeping a detailed journal of every encounter she has with this creep. The amount of hoops that this woman has to jump through just so she can go to a police station and a file report without being laughed out the building is infuriating! And to make the readers even more acutely aware of the helplessness sexual assault victims feel, Clarissa is given jury duty on a case that juxtaposes her own life. Now the readers get to see that even when you report acts of sexual abuse and make it into a court room you still have to deal with victim blaming and slut shaming by prosecuting lawyers and a judgemental jury.
I fully disagree with every review that found Clarissa frustrating as a victim. All those reviews that complain about her isolating or not reporting sooner. I think what sexual assault trials in the real world have taught us is that women tend to blame themselves right off the bat. If a man touches us inappropriately the first thought in our minds are; what did I do to provoke that? How did I lead him on? The amount of self doubt Clarissa was riddled with was infuriating but absolutely realistic. Of course I wish all my protagonists were badass bitches that were so self assured that if creep like Rafe tried something on them they would cut off his favourite organ but it's just not realistic.
The Book of You read more like True Crime then a fictitious thriller. There was something so realistic about this tale that just completely magnified my emotions through out this novel. I think I felt everything from sadness, to fury, to joy. I was completely on Clarissa's side from day one. I wanted to intergrade myself into this story so I could be her confidante, her defender, to fucking punch Rafe in his smug sociopathic face! I recommend this read for those who want a haunting look at being a helpless victim but it is graphic, realistic and dark so layer up on that thick skin because this is an amazing but tough read.
June 4, 2014
First off: While I have tried to avoid spoilers, this review has more information about the plot of the novel than I usually include. This is because the reasons for my critique are difficult to discuss without going into some detail about the story itself.
I had high expectations when I started Claire Kendal's debut thriller, The Book of You. Promotions compare it to Into the Darkest Corner and Before I Go To Sleep (both of which I enjoyed immensely) and also The Silent Wife (which for me, was a complete bust).
After months of developing perhaps unrealistic hopes for The Book of You, I found it to be a perplexing, underwhelming read.
The Book of You follows Clarissa, a young, sylphlike, ultra-feminine woman, who is being stalked by a disgusting loser named Rafe. Whereas in Into the Darkest Corner, or in Killing Me Softly, the dangerous boyfriend is initially charismatic, sexy, and intelligent, in this novel, Rafe comes across as an unlikeable weirdo from the very beginning. His first intimate encounter with Clarissa is a bad one, and things just get worse from there.
The reader is introduced to the dynamics between Rafe and Clarissa part way into their story...and the fact that we meet Clarissa when she is already avoiding Rafe reduces the sense of building suspense. There is a sort of repetitive monotony to this tale, with Clarissa trudging through the bleak, unremitting snow of a wintery city, and receiving one after another vaguely threatening gifts from Rafe, which she duly catalogues as evidence to eventually turn in to the police.
For much of this story, I wondered, "where is this going?"
As a counterpoint to the primary narrative, Clarissa is serving as a juror on a six week trial dealing with alleged kidnapping and rape. Ding, ding! The trial mimics Clarissa's experiences in ways so obvious that even she is aware of them. The trial, like Clarissa's own life, seems to drag on monotonously, with Clarissa cataloguing the names of legal and forensic experts who she could use in her own defense (but which she never, apparently does) and pondering all the ways in which the trial imitates real life. (I realize this is an inaccurate statement, since the trial is also someone's "real" life, but that is the way it seems to be presented in the novel.)
With all this going on, there is another character to add to the mix, a hunky fireman named Robert, who is Clarissa's fellow juror. As a reader, I was confused as to how I was supposed to feel about Robert- and not confused in a good, suspenseful way. On the one hand, Clarissa falls for him hook, line, and sinker, but she also realizes that he says many of the same things to her that her stalker, Rafe, does. She notes that when Robert says these things, she doesn't feel creeped out. It is unclear whether Clarissa's realization is meant to show us that a)Robert is also a stalker and Clarissa just doesn't get it, or b)romantic words are all in the delivery. On top of this, several people make comments to Clarissa, seemingly apropos of nothing, that they think something is "off" about Robert. I didn't feel that Robert was presented as an especially likeable character, but neither did he seem to be a psychopath. I kept hoping that some other man-the nice barrister, the helpful fellow walking his dog in the park-would turn out to be Clarissa's true love.
As a reader, I was unclear as to who I was supposed to root for, or what the author wanted this book to be. The constant references to bloody fairytales confused the issue still further. In the preface, the Kendal thanks her father for giving her her first book of fairytales, and her mother for teaching her to read. The sections of the book reference fairytales, and Clarissa is compared to a princess, while she ponders dark tales like Bluebeard and Sleeping Beauty.
I like Kendal's idea, of exploring how fairytales echo real life themes of obsession, sex, and violence. But in The Book of You, I did not feel that she was able to work this concept into the story in a comprehensible way.
I have admiration for anyone who writes a novel, and in The Book of You, I have the sense that Claire Kendal really put her heart and soul into her work. She clearly has lots of good ideas, and she seemed to want to create more than a generic thriller. Unfortunately, The Book of You ended up being a confused mess, with flat pacing, rather than building suspense, characters who were hard to warm to, and explicit detail about S&M torture that made me feel sick without adding anything necessary to the story itself.
If you're interested in stories about obsession or domestic abuse, I would recommend Killing Me Softly by Nicci French, Into the Darkest Corner by Elizabeth Haynes, Close Up by Esther Verhoef, The Bed I Made, by Lucie Whitehouse, or Darling Jim by Christian Moerk. All of these novels are amazing and unique, and will stay with you for a long time.
I had high expectations when I started Claire Kendal's debut thriller, The Book of You. Promotions compare it to Into the Darkest Corner and Before I Go To Sleep (both of which I enjoyed immensely) and also The Silent Wife (which for me, was a complete bust).
After months of developing perhaps unrealistic hopes for The Book of You, I found it to be a perplexing, underwhelming read.
The Book of You follows Clarissa, a young, sylphlike, ultra-feminine woman, who is being stalked by a disgusting loser named Rafe. Whereas in Into the Darkest Corner, or in Killing Me Softly, the dangerous boyfriend is initially charismatic, sexy, and intelligent, in this novel, Rafe comes across as an unlikeable weirdo from the very beginning. His first intimate encounter with Clarissa is a bad one, and things just get worse from there.
The reader is introduced to the dynamics between Rafe and Clarissa part way into their story...and the fact that we meet Clarissa when she is already avoiding Rafe reduces the sense of building suspense. There is a sort of repetitive monotony to this tale, with Clarissa trudging through the bleak, unremitting snow of a wintery city, and receiving one after another vaguely threatening gifts from Rafe, which she duly catalogues as evidence to eventually turn in to the police.
For much of this story, I wondered, "where is this going?"
As a counterpoint to the primary narrative, Clarissa is serving as a juror on a six week trial dealing with alleged kidnapping and rape. Ding, ding! The trial mimics Clarissa's experiences in ways so obvious that even she is aware of them. The trial, like Clarissa's own life, seems to drag on monotonously, with Clarissa cataloguing the names of legal and forensic experts who she could use in her own defense (but which she never, apparently does) and pondering all the ways in which the trial imitates real life. (I realize this is an inaccurate statement, since the trial is also someone's "real" life, but that is the way it seems to be presented in the novel.)
With all this going on, there is another character to add to the mix, a hunky fireman named Robert, who is Clarissa's fellow juror. As a reader, I was confused as to how I was supposed to feel about Robert- and not confused in a good, suspenseful way. On the one hand, Clarissa falls for him hook, line, and sinker, but she also realizes that he says many of the same things to her that her stalker, Rafe, does. She notes that when Robert says these things, she doesn't feel creeped out. It is unclear whether Clarissa's realization is meant to show us that a)Robert is also a stalker and Clarissa just doesn't get it, or b)romantic words are all in the delivery. On top of this, several people make comments to Clarissa, seemingly apropos of nothing, that they think something is "off" about Robert. I didn't feel that Robert was presented as an especially likeable character, but neither did he seem to be a psychopath. I kept hoping that some other man-the nice barrister, the helpful fellow walking his dog in the park-would turn out to be Clarissa's true love.
As a reader, I was unclear as to who I was supposed to root for, or what the author wanted this book to be. The constant references to bloody fairytales confused the issue still further. In the preface, the Kendal thanks her father for giving her her first book of fairytales, and her mother for teaching her to read. The sections of the book reference fairytales, and Clarissa is compared to a princess, while she ponders dark tales like Bluebeard and Sleeping Beauty.
I like Kendal's idea, of exploring how fairytales echo real life themes of obsession, sex, and violence. But in The Book of You, I did not feel that she was able to work this concept into the story in a comprehensible way.
I have admiration for anyone who writes a novel, and in The Book of You, I have the sense that Claire Kendal really put her heart and soul into her work. She clearly has lots of good ideas, and she seemed to want to create more than a generic thriller. Unfortunately, The Book of You ended up being a confused mess, with flat pacing, rather than building suspense, characters who were hard to warm to, and explicit detail about S&M torture that made me feel sick without adding anything necessary to the story itself.
If you're interested in stories about obsession or domestic abuse, I would recommend Killing Me Softly by Nicci French, Into the Darkest Corner by Elizabeth Haynes, Close Up by Esther Verhoef, The Bed I Made, by Lucie Whitehouse, or Darling Jim by Christian Moerk. All of these novels are amazing and unique, and will stay with you for a long time.
December 2, 2015
Note to self- picking books about violent stalkers while your husband is traveling will invite crazy dreams.
We are thrown into Clarissa's story immediately; she has begun keeping a journal to record evidence of her stalker Rafe, better known as The Book of You. The book is split over the course of a 7 week trial that Clarissa is a jury member of, followed by an epilogue after the main action comes to its climax. While most of the story is a slow, simmering build up, the ending happens quickly and powerfully.
Clarissa wasn't a particularly likable character for me, but I did feel sorry for her. I was impressed by her persistence in keeping up with all of her "evidence" from Rafe's stalking. This book stirred a great deal of emotion in me and felt particularly realistic in some instances; I truly could feel Clarissa's terror as I read along and cringed at the "big finale". While there isn't a load of mystery to this book, there were a few little twists at the end but I found them to not be surprising as I had already guessed them. I also enjoyed the way the book was broken up into sections; without this, I feel like it would have become a monotonous read of repetitive "Rafe stalks, Clarissa collects evidence".
This wasn't an enjoyable read per se, but one I would gladly do again as it caught my attention and raised awareness to all types of stalking and abuse that has become so common among women. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a quick read with substance!
We are thrown into Clarissa's story immediately; she has begun keeping a journal to record evidence of her stalker Rafe, better known as The Book of You. The book is split over the course of a 7 week trial that Clarissa is a jury member of, followed by an epilogue after the main action comes to its climax. While most of the story is a slow, simmering build up, the ending happens quickly and powerfully.
Clarissa wasn't a particularly likable character for me, but I did feel sorry for her. I was impressed by her persistence in keeping up with all of her "evidence" from Rafe's stalking. This book stirred a great deal of emotion in me and felt particularly realistic in some instances; I truly could feel Clarissa's terror as I read along and cringed at the "big finale". While there isn't a load of mystery to this book, there were a few little twists at the end but I found them to not be surprising as I had already guessed them. I also enjoyed the way the book was broken up into sections; without this, I feel like it would have become a monotonous read of repetitive "Rafe stalks, Clarissa collects evidence".
This wasn't an enjoyable read per se, but one I would gladly do again as it caught my attention and raised awareness to all types of stalking and abuse that has become so common among women. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a quick read with substance!
April 4, 2017
This book has become my new obsession. Edgy, raw and downright terrifying is the best way to describe this mesmerizing story. I finished a few days ago and it’s still haunting me. The subject matter is disturbing and might not appeal to everyone, but it kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
Clarissa is being stalked by one of her co-workers, Rafe. Everywhere she turns, he’s there. Watching, waiting, following and leaving gifts for her. It’s beyond creepy. No matter how many times she tells him she’s not interested, he doesn’t hear her. In his mind, they’re wrapped up in a loving relationship. She hopes being picked to serve on a jury for seven weeks will give her some respite. She thought wrong.
It’s truly an interesting juxtaposition though, stalker and stalkee. Obviously, it’s not by choice, but Clarissa becomes just as obsessed with Rafe as he is with her. Constantly looking over her shoulder for him, thinking about him and trying to anticipate his next move.
You can’t help but to feel Clarissa’s helplessness with the whole situation. They spent one questionable night together, she has no memory of what really happened, but she assumes everyone will think she’s just blowing things out of proportion if she asks for help. Her plan instead, gather enough evidence to make everyone see just how crazy he really is. The way the story unfolds is interesting - partially written as Clarissa looking back and chronicling what happened in a journal.
"Tangled in all of this is the thing I’ve know all the time but not wanted to speak: your murdering me is a real possibility."
I started this book late one night, when my husband was out of town, and I didn’t get much sleep. It was a mix of being freaked out from the storyline and not having the willpower to put it down. That's how well-written this book is. I felt the terror right along with Clarissa and had to find out how things were going to end. A little heartbreaking with the wrap-up, but still incredibly satisfying.
Clarissa is being stalked by one of her co-workers, Rafe. Everywhere she turns, he’s there. Watching, waiting, following and leaving gifts for her. It’s beyond creepy. No matter how many times she tells him she’s not interested, he doesn’t hear her. In his mind, they’re wrapped up in a loving relationship. She hopes being picked to serve on a jury for seven weeks will give her some respite. She thought wrong.
It’s truly an interesting juxtaposition though, stalker and stalkee. Obviously, it’s not by choice, but Clarissa becomes just as obsessed with Rafe as he is with her. Constantly looking over her shoulder for him, thinking about him and trying to anticipate his next move.
You can’t help but to feel Clarissa’s helplessness with the whole situation. They spent one questionable night together, she has no memory of what really happened, but she assumes everyone will think she’s just blowing things out of proportion if she asks for help. Her plan instead, gather enough evidence to make everyone see just how crazy he really is. The way the story unfolds is interesting - partially written as Clarissa looking back and chronicling what happened in a journal.
"Tangled in all of this is the thing I’ve know all the time but not wanted to speak: your murdering me is a real possibility."
I started this book late one night, when my husband was out of town, and I didn’t get much sleep. It was a mix of being freaked out from the storyline and not having the willpower to put it down. That's how well-written this book is. I felt the terror right along with Clarissa and had to find out how things were going to end. A little heartbreaking with the wrap-up, but still incredibly satisfying.
July 21, 2014
“The Book of You” is one creepy story. It’s a story of a woman being stalked by a creepy man. Claire Kendal weaves a story that is so believable, that it gave me chills. Victims of stalkers are truly helpless, even with police intervention and restraining orders. This is a well-written novel about a woman trying to document her abuser’s actions. There are statistics on stalker deaths that one sees in the news rather frequently. This novel provides in detail the full impact and horror of a stalked victim. It’s a great read.
January 14, 2016
This debut novel is kind of brilliant. It is told using both first and third person narrative...an interesting choice that works here. One woman's terrifying reality is juxtaposed with the events of a trial for which she is a juror. This allows information to be presented on how effectively the legal system blames and shames the victim. The message is clear, albeit unfortunate and depressing. This feels like a thriller, though the pacing was a bit off in the last third and I felt it could have been shorter. Regardless, I read it in one sitting and was riveted most of the time. Truly horrifying, this one really underscores how easy it is to blame the victim...if not for the crime then perhaps for their presumed complacency and in so doing, it quietly makes the point that one never knows what they themselves would do when faced with such a frightening situation. 4 stars.
March 26, 2019
Wow, the guy in this book took stalking to an entirely different level.....
Clarissa is being stalked by a guy she had a one night stand with
... and this guy was seriously crazy, it really made you think what in the world would you do if you were in Clarissa situation? I can't even believe how long it went on before she brought it to the attention of the police, and why she didn't tell more people around her I have no idea, but I've never thank goodness been in the situation... thankfully when she became part of a jury she saw some similarities and finally did bring it to the attention of the authorities, but it was a little too late... I think this Book did a good job of depicting how you would feel if you were in this situation, and it would not be a good feeling... The ending to this was very satisfying, and I will definitely be looking for another book by this author...
Clarissa is being stalked by a guy she had a one night stand with
... and this guy was seriously crazy, it really made you think what in the world would you do if you were in Clarissa situation? I can't even believe how long it went on before she brought it to the attention of the police, and why she didn't tell more people around her I have no idea, but I've never thank goodness been in the situation... thankfully when she became part of a jury she saw some similarities and finally did bring it to the attention of the authorities, but it was a little too late... I think this Book did a good job of depicting how you would feel if you were in this situation, and it would not be a good feeling... The ending to this was very satisfying, and I will definitely be looking for another book by this author...
February 6, 2016
Rats! I just finished The Book of You and dare not want it to be about me. But, honestly, I feel like I've been standing on the corner waiting for the bus that never really comes. I keep looking down the street for sight of it because it's scheduled to be here about now.
Clarissa has a creepy problem. His name is Rafe. Rafe continuously shows up on those street corners afore-mentioned. He is obsessed with his university co-worker, Clarissa. Clarissa made the mistake of hooking up with Rafe and he is relentless in his pursuit of her. And here is where the story becomes robotic. Rafe shows up and Clarissa documents and collects evidence. She feels that no one will believe her. Contacting the police doesn't become part of her defensive plan until almost the end of the book.
The story reverts back and forth from first person to third person with a parallel story of a rape victim. This rape victim is at the focus of a case that Clarissa finds herself involved in as a juror. Perhaps, this is the reason she feels that she won't be believed in regard to Rafe. I do applaud Claire Kendal for bringing to light this situation that, sadly, too many women find themselves in.
But here's where the story goes south for me. I wanted to feel the "tension" more. I had the deep desire to know more about the inner workings of Rafe. There was just hit and miss dialog from him. Perhaps we should have had the story divided more into components of the inner mindset of Rafe. Without that, it was just hand-me-down evil instead of going for the juglar. The Book of "You" wasn't so much about you, Rafe.
Please know that this was a good read. It just needed a bit more tabasco blend to add more zest. Looking forward to future offerings by Claire Kendal.
Clarissa has a creepy problem. His name is Rafe. Rafe continuously shows up on those street corners afore-mentioned. He is obsessed with his university co-worker, Clarissa. Clarissa made the mistake of hooking up with Rafe and he is relentless in his pursuit of her. And here is where the story becomes robotic. Rafe shows up and Clarissa documents and collects evidence. She feels that no one will believe her. Contacting the police doesn't become part of her defensive plan until almost the end of the book.
The story reverts back and forth from first person to third person with a parallel story of a rape victim. This rape victim is at the focus of a case that Clarissa finds herself involved in as a juror. Perhaps, this is the reason she feels that she won't be believed in regard to Rafe. I do applaud Claire Kendal for bringing to light this situation that, sadly, too many women find themselves in.
But here's where the story goes south for me. I wanted to feel the "tension" more. I had the deep desire to know more about the inner workings of Rafe. There was just hit and miss dialog from him. Perhaps we should have had the story divided more into components of the inner mindset of Rafe. Without that, it was just hand-me-down evil instead of going for the juglar. The Book of "You" wasn't so much about you, Rafe.
Please know that this was a good read. It just needed a bit more tabasco blend to add more zest. Looking forward to future offerings by Claire Kendal.
July 17, 2017
Wow! Wow! Wow! One of THE best books I've ever read. Devoured this in hours cover to cover. Gone Girl - pfft! The Girl on the Train - pfft! THIS is the psychological thriller for those to look up to. Full review soon but don't wait - get this book!
February 1, 2016
My Number 10 Read for 2015
Posted to The Literary Lawyer
A Thriller with an Important Message - 5 Stars
I can't honestly say that I enjoyed this book. It was difficult to read. Both the content and style of writing contributed. Firstly, much of the story was told in the second person. In my experience, this narrative perspective is seldom used and I have found it to be jarring and voyeuristic.
On the surface, this was a story about obsession, abuse and the failure of society to recognize and respond. The story focuses on Clarissa and her stalker, Rafe. Unlike other portrayals of stalkers, Rafe is not a small slimy man content to live in the shadows. He is a large presence and a near constant companion. The continual interactions are uncomfortable as I imagine they were meant to be. You will be upset by the lack of options available to Clarissa and the by the actions and reactions of the characters.
I imagine that the majority of readers found themselves telling Clarissa that she should be more proactive, she should talk to someone or lamenting was you think is a lack of self preservation. I found I was doing this right from the start but it soon felt that I was meant to question my own reactions. It was very easy to blame Clarissa for her action and inaction. It was easy to shift or share the blame for the bad actions of the stalker.
In my professional life, I have dealt with a wide variety of individuals who have been subjected to and have subjected others to abuse. I am continually surprised by the attitudes of those outside the situation. Despite condemning the actions of the abuser there remains tendency to place blame on the victim. There are few things move disempowering to a victim and empowering to an abuser than blaming the victim. While you would expect that a person take steps of self protection, society, as explored in this novel, leaves the victim lacking confidence the she will receive protection and leaves her feeling they are more exposed by seeking help.
In my view, this novel was most powerful in that it exposed victim blaming in society and exposed the tendency in the reader. The fact I became so involved in the story and disturbed by the content left no choice but to give this a 5 star rating. While the book is a quick read, don't ignore the opportunity at introspection provided by The Book of You
Posted to The Literary Lawyer
A Thriller with an Important Message - 5 Stars
I can't honestly say that I enjoyed this book. It was difficult to read. Both the content and style of writing contributed. Firstly, much of the story was told in the second person. In my experience, this narrative perspective is seldom used and I have found it to be jarring and voyeuristic.
On the surface, this was a story about obsession, abuse and the failure of society to recognize and respond. The story focuses on Clarissa and her stalker, Rafe. Unlike other portrayals of stalkers, Rafe is not a small slimy man content to live in the shadows. He is a large presence and a near constant companion. The continual interactions are uncomfortable as I imagine they were meant to be. You will be upset by the lack of options available to Clarissa and the by the actions and reactions of the characters.
I imagine that the majority of readers found themselves telling Clarissa that she should be more proactive, she should talk to someone or lamenting was you think is a lack of self preservation. I found I was doing this right from the start but it soon felt that I was meant to question my own reactions. It was very easy to blame Clarissa for her action and inaction. It was easy to shift or share the blame for the bad actions of the stalker.
In my professional life, I have dealt with a wide variety of individuals who have been subjected to and have subjected others to abuse. I am continually surprised by the attitudes of those outside the situation. Despite condemning the actions of the abuser there remains tendency to place blame on the victim. There are few things move disempowering to a victim and empowering to an abuser than blaming the victim. While you would expect that a person take steps of self protection, society, as explored in this novel, leaves the victim lacking confidence the she will receive protection and leaves her feeling they are more exposed by seeking help.
In my view, this novel was most powerful in that it exposed victim blaming in society and exposed the tendency in the reader. The fact I became so involved in the story and disturbed by the content left no choice but to give this a 5 star rating. While the book is a quick read, don't ignore the opportunity at introspection provided by The Book of You
August 8, 2015
2.5 stars. I both read and listened to the audio version of The Book of You. The story had a riveting beginning, and an interesting and believable premise—a young woman working at a university becomes a victim of stalking by a male colleague. He becomes obsessed with her following a terrifying incident in which she was involved with him. Following the incident he is continuously texting her, sending her gifts, and appearing out of nowhere. The woman journals her thoughts and collects evidence to take to the police, following advice from the leaflets she has that instruct her in dealing with stalkers. Unfortunately her stalker seems to be one step ahead of her...
For some reason I never felt that bone chilling, disturbing, and suspenseful feeling I expect in a psychological thriller. I love a good psychological thriller for how they get into the characters’ heads, but this one seemed to have a lot of unnecessary “fillers” that I found uninteresting. Overall I was a bit disappointed, but had I been able to relate to the main character I might have had a different reaction. I will say the story makes one think!
For some reason I never felt that bone chilling, disturbing, and suspenseful feeling I expect in a psychological thriller. I love a good psychological thriller for how they get into the characters’ heads, but this one seemed to have a lot of unnecessary “fillers” that I found uninteresting. Overall I was a bit disappointed, but had I been able to relate to the main character I might have had a different reaction. I will say the story makes one think!
November 18, 2019
Wow. This is by no means an easy read as it features stalking, kidnap, violence and abuse and at times it is truly terrifying- forget to breathe terrifying. Clarissa Bourne is stalked by a man with whom she foolishly has what MIGHT be described as a one night stand. He will not let go and pursues her in a variety of ways. The story takes the form of a journal in which she records the events and this works brilliantly. At times it is creepy and terrifying and so, so scary and of course, I couldn’t put it down.
Overall, this is an outstanding thriller and very shocking and if you like dark and twisty then this one is for you!
Overall, this is an outstanding thriller and very shocking and if you like dark and twisty then this one is for you!
July 21, 2016
This book could have been so much more than it was. In fact, it was wholly a missed opportunity perhaps in part to the fact the author is a first-time writer. While the premise is exciting enough, the delivery falls flat and the story just doesn't live up to the covers proclamations of a non-stop thrill ride.
The first issue I had with this book was the female lead. Clarissa is in her late thirties but still incredibly naive, her mother knits her mittens to wear and she seems entirely unaware of the powers that exist to protect her from the unwanted affections of creepy stalker Rafe. The writing comes across as if the author herself is unforgiving of the police. Clarissa doesn't attempt to contact the police until far into the story and instead relied upon vague advice leaflets from support organisations.
Oh, and also find issue with the fact that the story is set in the city of Bath, England and yet Clarissa and Rafe are two names you almost never hear this side of the Atlantic.
There is a distinct lack of character development at almost all areas of the book. I really wanted Clarissa to be a strong "don't mess with me or else" character but her delicate persona and inability to confront Rafe at almost all opportunities was frustrating to say the least.
For sensitive readers, be warned this story features graphic descriptions of sexual violence. Generously, this is a two star read.
Average, and not at all what the cover art promises.
The first issue I had with this book was the female lead. Clarissa is in her late thirties but still incredibly naive, her mother knits her mittens to wear and she seems entirely unaware of the powers that exist to protect her from the unwanted affections of creepy stalker Rafe. The writing comes across as if the author herself is unforgiving of the police. Clarissa doesn't attempt to contact the police until far into the story and instead relied upon vague advice leaflets from support organisations.
Oh, and also find issue with the fact that the story is set in the city of Bath, England and yet Clarissa and Rafe are two names you almost never hear this side of the Atlantic.
There is a distinct lack of character development at almost all areas of the book. I really wanted Clarissa to be a strong "don't mess with me or else" character but her delicate persona and inability to confront Rafe at almost all opportunities was frustrating to say the least.
For sensitive readers, be warned this story features graphic descriptions of sexual violence. Generously, this is a two star read.
Average, and not at all what the cover art promises.
February 25, 2017
Taking this review down because the point I was trying to make had a lot to do with a theory I've had knocking around my head for a while, that relates to quite a lot of books in the same genre as this one, and it didn't really make much sense in isolation.
But I'll leave this bit up - there's a really graphic and disturbing rape scene in this book, FYI if rape is a 'trigger' for you or if, like me, you'd just rather avoid yet another thriller using it as a lazy 'shocking' plot device.
But I'll leave this bit up - there's a really graphic and disturbing rape scene in this book, FYI if rape is a 'trigger' for you or if, like me, you'd just rather avoid yet another thriller using it as a lazy 'shocking' plot device.
July 20, 2017
I jumped in and devoured this book in two days time, I read it partly because I've been writing stalker-themed fanfics for some time and I want to know more about this theme.
At first I was intrigued by by the finely written details and the description of what is going on in the tormented victim's mind after she suffered by a stalker she couldn't seem to escape from. I'm sickened to my stomach when I saw how this stalker posted himself as a harmless admirer who only wanted the MC's affection, being manipulative, making what he had done look like just part of his courtship, turning the MC's friends against her, etc. I want to give credit to the author for making all these awful details look realistic.
I can't stress this enough: This stalker guy is so disgusting! And don't even mistake for a second what he did is out of love! Because once the MC disobeyed him and told him to back the fuck off, he called her 'bitch' right away and that's his true feeling for her, not his romanticized BS.
At the same time, the MC was appointed to be a juror in a rape case, this courtroom plot line serves to highlight all the awful things which can happen to the victims when they are at the mercy of the legal system which supposedly should protect them---and many of us know better: reporting the stalking to the police often proves to be useless, raped victims are humiliated and damaged once again in the court room, victims are either being labeled as whores or 'asking for it' whenever there are contradictions (no matter how small or slight) in their testimonies. Therefore, I can understand why the MC hesitated for so long before she made any move against the stalker, I understand to a degree.
Yet, after reading 2/3 of the story, I got bored. I wanted this book to end so badly. I have had enough of the MC being afraid of the stalker yet allowing the sicko to continue ruining her life. Plus one of the reason why I found this book to be increasingly boring is because everything is so black and white in this book: the stalker is evil (which he is) and the MC and her new boyfriend are good, after a while, these characters get old.
I guess my main problem with the last 1/3 part of the story is the MC: she is a 38 years old grown woman, not some scared teenage girl who doesn't know better, but she is still so........useless. I'm sorry but there is no other way to describe this MC. I try hard to avoid blaming the victim, I understand that she has been in a bad situation for a long time so I don't expect her to be all bold and strong, still when reading this novel I had been waiting for her to be a bit stronger, to overcome her fear and limitation, to stand up against this shameless stalker once and for all, sadly she hasn't done it in most of the book...........even to the very ending she I mean, if someone stalked me and threatened me like what the stalker in the book had done to the MC, I would cut him up myself, I won't wait till the stalker
I had thought about giving out 3 stars for the fine details and the sense of realism at the beginning part of the story, but 0.5 star has to be taken away for the underwhelming ending and the weak MC. So, 2.5 stars only.
J. Taylor's review highlights many problems in this book.
At first I was intrigued by by the finely written details and the description of what is going on in the tormented victim's mind after she suffered by a stalker she couldn't seem to escape from. I'm sickened to my stomach when I saw how this stalker posted himself as a harmless admirer who only wanted the MC's affection, being manipulative, making what he had done look like just part of his courtship, turning the MC's friends against her, etc. I want to give credit to the author for making all these awful details look realistic.
I can't stress this enough: This stalker guy is so disgusting! And don't even mistake for a second what he did is out of love! Because once the MC disobeyed him and told him to back the fuck off, he called her 'bitch' right away and that's his true feeling for her, not his romanticized BS.
At the same time, the MC was appointed to be a juror in a rape case, this courtroom plot line serves to highlight all the awful things which can happen to the victims when they are at the mercy of the legal system which supposedly should protect them---and many of us know better: reporting the stalking to the police often proves to be useless, raped victims are humiliated and damaged once again in the court room, victims are either being labeled as whores or 'asking for it' whenever there are contradictions (no matter how small or slight) in their testimonies. Therefore, I can understand why the MC hesitated for so long before she made any move against the stalker, I understand to a degree.
Yet, after reading 2/3 of the story, I got bored. I wanted this book to end so badly. I have had enough of the MC being afraid of the stalker yet allowing the sicko to continue ruining her life. Plus one of the reason why I found this book to be increasingly boring is because everything is so black and white in this book: the stalker is evil (which he is) and the MC and her new boyfriend are good, after a while, these characters get old.
I guess my main problem with the last 1/3 part of the story is the MC: she is a 38 years old grown woman, not some scared teenage girl who doesn't know better, but she is still so........useless. I'm sorry but there is no other way to describe this MC. I try hard to avoid blaming the victim, I understand that she has been in a bad situation for a long time so I don't expect her to be all bold and strong, still when reading this novel I had been waiting for her to be a bit stronger, to overcome her fear and limitation, to stand up against this shameless stalker once and for all, sadly she hasn't done it in most of the book...........even to the very ending she I mean, if someone stalked me and threatened me like what the stalker in the book had done to the MC, I would cut him up myself, I won't wait till the stalker
I had thought about giving out 3 stars for the fine details and the sense of realism at the beginning part of the story, but 0.5 star has to be taken away for the underwhelming ending and the weak MC. So, 2.5 stars only.
J. Taylor's review highlights many problems in this book.
October 2, 2016
I will not read a book about stalkers again, the experience is too raw to properly portray it on a book, and all the attempts that I have read so far have failed . This book was no different, I am glad that I was satisfied by the ending but I think that the story lacks an air of complexity, it made me feel for the main character , but at the same time it didn't make her story believable, being stalked is an experience that I don't think could ever be properly written about . And besides I hate how stalkers think in all the books, these are people to be avoided in real life , and their company doesn't make any easier or pleasant in a book.
July 26, 2016
This is definitely one of the worst things I've ever read. Probably the worst one. My problem isn't the subject matter, which is universally appalling. It's just about everything else. I disliked the narrative style. I disliked the main character - the victim. She was impossibly hard to like, in fact, I never managed to connect with her, let alone care about her, or about what is happening to her. That at least should've been easy, but it wasn't, because, well, the annoying narrative style, as well as Clarissa's voice, which kept distracting me, with a bounty of unneeded nonsense and silly ramblings, created an emotional boundary of sorts. And it isn't because she's slow seeking help, or secretive about her situation, or because she's presented a weak, wimpy or possibly timid clothes-knitting mouse, it's because of all the stupidities, and her incessant focus on jerks. It's this annoying stream of silliness, as she reflects on pretty much every little detail of, well, everything. And l don't mean her being frightened, that seems perfectly reasonable.
Also pretty much every character in this painfully stupid story is horrible. It's so horrendously bad, that anything else shines in comparison. Rafe is perfectly disgusting, though, and a creepy sort too, but a creep being creepy, doesn't add more than vivid and unsettling gore. As such I felt equally irritated and grossed out. Had there been some unreliability too, it might've been more to my liking.
I liked Before I Go the Sleep, and Gone Girl, the books this one is being compared to, and by that logic, I ought to like The Book of You as well, or at least not dislike it, but that's the only surprising part about it, that it lacks any interesting, or surprising, plot twists. It's more an account of the horrors of falling victim to a deviant wanker, than it's a well plotted suspense novel. It's either way to predictable or, I've become extremely skilled at guessing every possible scenario, and thereby setting myself up for unavoidable disappointment.
Lastly, I DO NOT seek to belittle victims of rape, and stalking, obviously different people react to severe trauma in different ways. And I wouldn't down-rate a book about stalking and rape, because I had a problem with being subjected to such issues either, if so, I would simply have avoided the book. My problem is with the personality chosen for this particular fictive character, with its narrative style, and with the fact that this doesn't offer anything close to what one would expect, when a book is been sold of as comparable to GG and BIGTS. Because, again, if I hadn't expected ingenuity, and I had chosen to read it anyhow, I would've been less disappointed, and maybe even a tiny bit less annoyed. Anyways, I can't recommend a book I dislike, but obviously it's only my opinion as its average rating is much less grumpy.
Also pretty much every character in this painfully stupid story is horrible. It's so horrendously bad, that anything else shines in comparison. Rafe is perfectly disgusting, though, and a creepy sort too, but a creep being creepy, doesn't add more than vivid and unsettling gore. As such I felt equally irritated and grossed out. Had there been some unreliability too, it might've been more to my liking.
I liked Before I Go the Sleep, and Gone Girl, the books this one is being compared to, and by that logic, I ought to like The Book of You as well, or at least not dislike it, but that's the only surprising part about it, that it lacks any interesting, or surprising, plot twists. It's more an account of the horrors of falling victim to a deviant wanker, than it's a well plotted suspense novel. It's either way to predictable or, I've become extremely skilled at guessing every possible scenario, and thereby setting myself up for unavoidable disappointment.
Lastly, I DO NOT seek to belittle victims of rape, and stalking, obviously different people react to severe trauma in different ways. And I wouldn't down-rate a book about stalking and rape, because I had a problem with being subjected to such issues either, if so, I would simply have avoided the book. My problem is with the personality chosen for this particular fictive character, with its narrative style, and with the fact that this doesn't offer anything close to what one would expect, when a book is been sold of as comparable to GG and BIGTS. Because, again, if I hadn't expected ingenuity, and I had chosen to read it anyhow, I would've been less disappointed, and maybe even a tiny bit less annoyed. Anyways, I can't recommend a book I dislike, but obviously it's only my opinion as its average rating is much less grumpy.
September 10, 2017
Super atmospheric and creepy, but the end was a little lackluster for me. Might be more of a 4 right at this moment but I have a feeling that with time it will end up being a 3, so a 3 it is.
March 29, 2017
Clarissa is being stalked by a man (Rafe) whom she knows. She finds out terrible things about him and about his actions in the past and she can't get away from him. Her life starts to dissolve and he is so manipulative, he manages to appear concerned so that her own friends question her mental health. Then Clarissa begins to feel attracted to Robert, with whom she sits on a jury panel. As Rafe becomes more and more violent and deranged, Clarissa begins to fear for her own life.
It's a great story and full of suspense. I dropped the final star because I felt Clarissa's character was a bit shallow. A well-deserved four stars.
It's a great story and full of suspense. I dropped the final star because I felt Clarissa's character was a bit shallow. A well-deserved four stars.
February 5, 2014
I read the blurb that accompanies this book which details how Clarissa is becoming scared of Rafe who doesn’t take no for an answer, wherever she goes he is there. There is something about stalkers that fascinates me. What is the motivation to keep trying to be with someone who doesn’t want to know? All this is made much worse because she works with Rafe so she can’t totally avoid him. When Clarissa is called for jury service she is relieved, could this be a form of sanctuary from Rafe for a couple of weeks?
I was hooked from the first page of this book, Clarissa is following the advice she has gleaned from the leaflets about stalkers advise, write down everything so many of the excerpts are from her notebook, small so that she can carry it everywhere with her. This book is 'The Book of You' as it details everything that Rafe does that impacts her life.
As the excerpts hop backwards to the time Clarissa first met Rafe we also learn of her lost love Henry, her longing for a baby and her love of sewing. You can almost taste the crisp cold air in London as she makes her way backwards and forwards to the court to listen to the evidence of a female witness who Clarissa can’t help but imagine a connection with, both helpless and unable to turn to anyone for help.
There are some great characters in this book, the other jury members, the witnesses and the defendants, the prosecutors and the judge were all distinct people with just enough background detail for me to feel I had really met them but not so much that it slowed the pace of the story down.
It is easy to distinguish the present day, the main part of the book covers seven weeks of Clarissa’s life, from the written notebooks by the font which meant that this was an easy read despite the jumps in times and place.
This is a five star read despite the fact that I felt a little disengaged at the end, not strongly enough to be disappointed but after such a good beginning the ending felt a little contrived. Despite this I would recommend this to everyone (except stalkers) who enjoy a good read with a storyline that makes you question how you would react, what is the right response if someone won’t leave you alone?
I received an ARC from Amazon Vine in return for this honest review.
I was hooked from the first page of this book, Clarissa is following the advice she has gleaned from the leaflets about stalkers advise, write down everything so many of the excerpts are from her notebook, small so that she can carry it everywhere with her. This book is 'The Book of You' as it details everything that Rafe does that impacts her life.
As the excerpts hop backwards to the time Clarissa first met Rafe we also learn of her lost love Henry, her longing for a baby and her love of sewing. You can almost taste the crisp cold air in London as she makes her way backwards and forwards to the court to listen to the evidence of a female witness who Clarissa can’t help but imagine a connection with, both helpless and unable to turn to anyone for help.
There are some great characters in this book, the other jury members, the witnesses and the defendants, the prosecutors and the judge were all distinct people with just enough background detail for me to feel I had really met them but not so much that it slowed the pace of the story down.
It is easy to distinguish the present day, the main part of the book covers seven weeks of Clarissa’s life, from the written notebooks by the font which meant that this was an easy read despite the jumps in times and place.
This is a five star read despite the fact that I felt a little disengaged at the end, not strongly enough to be disappointed but after such a good beginning the ending felt a little contrived. Despite this I would recommend this to everyone (except stalkers) who enjoy a good read with a storyline that makes you question how you would react, what is the right response if someone won’t leave you alone?
I received an ARC from Amazon Vine in return for this honest review.
July 2, 2015
I was so engrossed in this book it took me four hours to read it. It's about bad choices and what can happen . Rafael invited his co-worker Larissa to his book reading and afterwards a drink becomes one or two I or four. lol. Which equals a one night stand and waking up in the morning realising you made a horrible mistake. You take the longest shower and just pass it off as a bad decision.
Only Rafael does not see it that way . He starts to believe they have a relationship. He stalks her night and day. Studies her life inside and out. Thats what I call a creeper.
Imagine walking outside your door and he is there . imagine him following you and trying to hold you..touch you. He would of gotten mace awhile ago. He becomes friends with her friends, knows her schedule ...torments her with pictures of that night. Thing she is she never remembered half of it. Creeper.
Things become worse, police wont help. which left me perplexed. The ending was a big surprise. I cant wait tob read her future novels. Very suspenseful and creepy. Highly recommended for psychological thriller fans!!!!
Only Rafael does not see it that way . He starts to believe they have a relationship. He stalks her night and day. Studies her life inside and out. Thats what I call a creeper.
Imagine walking outside your door and he is there . imagine him following you and trying to hold you..touch you. He would of gotten mace awhile ago. He becomes friends with her friends, knows her schedule ...torments her with pictures of that night. Thing she is she never remembered half of it. Creeper.
Things become worse, police wont help. which left me perplexed. The ending was a big surprise. I cant wait tob read her future novels. Very suspenseful and creepy. Highly recommended for psychological thriller fans!!!!
December 9, 2014
Audio Review.
Disappointing ending. There was no closure. I listened to the entire book and that is how it ends??? Plus, this is not one book that will give you much faith in the judicial system.
At first I thought the heroine was weak and pathetic and her "loving" parents turned her in to a woman who never stood up for herself. Then I saw what she was doing and why she felt the way she felt. I was sad for her. Was she stupid or just too kind of a person???
If there is a sequel, I will probably read it. I did not love the narrator's voice. I feel when the characters' dialogue were supposed to sound sympathetic, they sounded annoyed and condensing.
I would have given it 4 stars if not for that terrible ending with no information on whether there is a sequel.
Disappointing ending. There was no closure. I listened to the entire book and that is how it ends??? Plus, this is not one book that will give you much faith in the judicial system.
At first I thought the heroine was weak and pathetic and her "loving" parents turned her in to a woman who never stood up for herself. Then I saw what she was doing and why she felt the way she felt. I was sad for her. Was she stupid or just too kind of a person???
If there is a sequel, I will probably read it. I did not love the narrator's voice. I feel when the characters' dialogue were supposed to sound sympathetic, they sounded annoyed and condensing.
I would have given it 4 stars if not for that terrible ending with no information on whether there is a sequel.
March 29, 2015
Clarissa is being stalked by a man named Rafe who also happens to be a co-worker. Being the smart woman she is, she starts a journal of every time he follows her, talks to her, calls her, leaves her gifts. She's waiting until she has enough to take it to the police.
It starts as a routine stalking (if there is such a thing) and the suspense builds page by page by page. You see and feel the escalation of Clarissa's fright and of Rafe's obsession. The ending is quite explosive.
I read this one in less than one day. Any book that can keep me that interested deserves 5 stars!
This is the author's debut novel ... I can hardly wait to see what's next from her.
It starts as a routine stalking (if there is such a thing) and the suspense builds page by page by page. You see and feel the escalation of Clarissa's fright and of Rafe's obsession. The ending is quite explosive.
I read this one in less than one day. Any book that can keep me that interested deserves 5 stars!
This is the author's debut novel ... I can hardly wait to see what's next from her.
November 26, 2017
3.5 stars round up to 4.
Yeehaw! That was a terrifying book! I think the scariest thing on this planet is how frustrating the law works in terms of sexual harassment/assault/stalking. In her debut novel, Claire Kendal sets the stage from page one, her protagonist, Clarisse is being stalked by Rafe, a man who she had a one night stand with. Rafe won 't let go of Clarisse and follows her everywhere she goes. That is why Clarisse is absolutely relieved when she gets selected for seven week jury duty. But this doesn't deter Rafe from continuing to leave Clarisse presents at her apartment. Although Clarisse tries to report it to the authorities, she is pretty much left on her own and so she begins to keep a journal of her encounters with Rafe. Clarisse is further relieved to make friends with Robert, a fellow juror that seems tough enough to keep Rafe far away.
Switching between 1st and 3rd person perspectives, Kendal delivers a pulse pounding thriller that made me only want to read this book...during the day...in public.
That being said, this book did suffer from some problems. Clarisse is a juror on the rape case of Carlotta. Rafe is stalking her, but she really likes Robert. She's upset that her friend Rowena was manipulated by Rafe. Her boss Graham is upset she will be gone and she doesn't like Grant, a fellow juror. What's up with authors using the same letters for characters names? Also, the 1st and 3rd person perspectives tended to confuse me, but only because they were often within the chapters and not separated.
Despite those little problems with the book, I could not put this book down!
Yeehaw! That was a terrifying book! I think the scariest thing on this planet is how frustrating the law works in terms of sexual harassment/assault/stalking. In her debut novel, Claire Kendal sets the stage from page one, her protagonist, Clarisse is being stalked by Rafe, a man who she had a one night stand with. Rafe won 't let go of Clarisse and follows her everywhere she goes. That is why Clarisse is absolutely relieved when she gets selected for seven week jury duty. But this doesn't deter Rafe from continuing to leave Clarisse presents at her apartment. Although Clarisse tries to report it to the authorities, she is pretty much left on her own and so she begins to keep a journal of her encounters with Rafe. Clarisse is further relieved to make friends with Robert, a fellow juror that seems tough enough to keep Rafe far away.
Switching between 1st and 3rd person perspectives, Kendal delivers a pulse pounding thriller that made me only want to read this book...during the day...in public.
That being said, this book did suffer from some problems. Clarisse is a juror on the rape case of Carlotta. Rafe is stalking her, but she really likes Robert. She's upset that her friend Rowena was manipulated by Rafe. Her boss Graham is upset she will be gone and she doesn't like Grant, a fellow juror. What's up with authors using the same letters for characters names? Also, the 1st and 3rd person perspectives tended to confuse me, but only because they were often within the chapters and not separated.
Despite those little problems with the book, I could not put this book down!
Read
October 6, 2015DNF @ p.46 -- no star rating
I just couldn't do this. I'm not going to rate this because I don't know if this one may have gotten better if I'd stuck with it.
Rafe is some creepy creep that's stalking Clarissa. We're talking heebie-jeebies creep.
What I didn't like and why I had to abandon this:
1. We immediately know this guy is stalking her; we just don't know why or in what capacity they know each other because she's afraid of being rude to him. So she gives in to his "innocent" demands that they go for coffee, that she stick around after his poetry book reading, that she allow him to be concerned for her well-being. It's pathetic but you can start getting a picture of how easy this guy keeps injecting himself into her daily routine. Thing is, she's terrified to the point where she has to look all ways where ever she's at to make sure he hasn't followed her. This is where it began annoying me. We don't have the full picture just yet, so I can only react on what I've read so far. So dammit! Turn around and forcefully tell him to stop following you or you'll call the police. Well, easier said than done because I'm sure in real life, it's not so simple-cut. But as a spectator/reader, this is my reaction cause all I know is that she knows him from work(?), school(?), friend of the family(?) Alert some of these people you know in common if he won't leave you alone.
2. I do not like the style of writing. Clarissa is writing a daily journal because the one time she did call 911, they told her he had commited no crime. Apparently, stalking is not a crime. There has to be some kind of physical violence before the police can step in and take some action She is instead advised to start keeping a journal to use as evidence for when something does happen to her. Unbelievable!
The problem with this is that it's not written in journal style, other than by logging the dates as headings. Clarissa tells the story like she's telling a story, not like she's keeping a daily tab of this guys actions. She uses present tense and refers to Rafe as you, as if she were writing him a letter:
You are shaking your head in a pantomime of how wounded and misunderstood you are.
Your performance is clear even through the murky vapor of this awful room.
This thought is being said as Clarissa is telling us about a lunch encounter with Rafe and her best friend. It made it more difficult to figure out if she was talking to one of them or if this was a telepathic thought she was sending out to Rafe. I had to go back and reread more than a few sentences to see who was the "you" she was referring to.
3. I hate books/movies/ TV shows where a character is being warned with a loudspeaker, bright bold yellow highlighter, flares that you have something bad you are trying to warn them off, but said character acts like she doesn't see/hear any shrill alert in your voice.
Friend 1:*waving hands wildly* Don't go through that door! There's a serial killer behind it!
Friend 2: What? There's a cereal coupon behind this door? Uhm, yum. I could go for some
breakfast. *starts to open door*
I thought this would be a really creepy read for October but it annoyed the heck out of me before I even hit 50 pages of it.
I just couldn't do this. I'm not going to rate this because I don't know if this one may have gotten better if I'd stuck with it.
Rafe is some creepy creep that's stalking Clarissa. We're talking heebie-jeebies creep.
What I didn't like and why I had to abandon this:
1. We immediately know this guy is stalking her; we just don't know why or in what capacity they know each other because she's afraid of being rude to him. So she gives in to his "innocent" demands that they go for coffee, that she stick around after his poetry book reading, that she allow him to be concerned for her well-being. It's pathetic but you can start getting a picture of how easy this guy keeps injecting himself into her daily routine. Thing is, she's terrified to the point where she has to look all ways where ever she's at to make sure he hasn't followed her. This is where it began annoying me. We don't have the full picture just yet, so I can only react on what I've read so far. So dammit! Turn around and forcefully tell him to stop following you or you'll call the police. Well, easier said than done because I'm sure in real life, it's not so simple-cut. But as a spectator/reader, this is my reaction cause all I know is that she knows him from work(?), school(?), friend of the family(?) Alert some of these people you know in common if he won't leave you alone.
2. I do not like the style of writing. Clarissa is writing a daily journal because the one time she did call 911, they told her he had commited no crime. Apparently, stalking is not a crime. There has to be some kind of physical violence before the police can step in and take some action She is instead advised to start keeping a journal to use as evidence for when something does happen to her. Unbelievable!
The problem with this is that it's not written in journal style, other than by logging the dates as headings. Clarissa tells the story like she's telling a story, not like she's keeping a daily tab of this guys actions. She uses present tense and refers to Rafe as you, as if she were writing him a letter:
You are shaking your head in a pantomime of how wounded and misunderstood you are.
Your performance is clear even through the murky vapor of this awful room.
This thought is being said as Clarissa is telling us about a lunch encounter with Rafe and her best friend. It made it more difficult to figure out if she was talking to one of them or if this was a telepathic thought she was sending out to Rafe. I had to go back and reread more than a few sentences to see who was the "you" she was referring to.
3. I hate books/movies/ TV shows where a character is being warned with a loudspeaker, bright bold yellow highlighter, flares that you have something bad you are trying to warn them off, but said character acts like she doesn't see/hear any shrill alert in your voice.
Friend 1:*waving hands wildly* Don't go through that door! There's a serial killer behind it!
Friend 2: What? There's a cereal coupon behind this door? Uhm, yum. I could go for some
breakfast. *starts to open door*
I thought this would be a really creepy read for October but it annoyed the heck out of me before I even hit 50 pages of it.
November 26, 2023
Hoewel het grimmige van de stalking zeker op mij overkwam zijn er toch een aantal dingen die ik minder vond. Zo vertelt het personage aan niemand dat ze wordt gestalkt, ook niet als er wordt gevraagd wat er met haar aan de hand is. Ik kan me niet zo goed voorstellen dat er echt helemaal niemand is die je in vertrouwen durft te nemen. Dan de romance tussen haar en een van de andere juryleden, waarom moest dat er nou eentje zijn met cheating? Waarom die herhaling maar dan dat het haar overkomt met een ander, terwijl ze het ook al mee had gemaakt met haar ex? Ik weet niet het voelde een beetje goedkoop en onnodig voor het verhaal.
Het is in ieder geval een verhaal wat zich langzaam opbouwt, maar wel de nodige kleine spanningsbogen heeft die je scherp houden. De stalking gaat van kwaad tot erger. Tussendoor lees je ook hoe Clarissa de rechtszaak waarvoor ze in de jurybank zit ervaart. Dat kan misschien wat langdradig en onnodig voelen, maar het zorgt er wel voor dat er wat meer gebeurt in het boek dan alleen de stalking.
Het is in ieder geval een verhaal wat zich langzaam opbouwt, maar wel de nodige kleine spanningsbogen heeft die je scherp houden. De stalking gaat van kwaad tot erger. Tussendoor lees je ook hoe Clarissa de rechtszaak waarvoor ze in de jurybank zit ervaart. Dat kan misschien wat langdradig en onnodig voelen, maar het zorgt er wel voor dat er wat meer gebeurt in het boek dan alleen de stalking.
February 1, 2019
3.5
This is a very atmospheric book and I’m glad I didn’t find the audio book for this, because that would’ve made me even more uncomfortable. It started so good, however somewhere after the 2/3 all the creepiness that hooked me to the book was toned down. And that end, oh; it was insipid compared to the rest of the book.
The story follows Clarissa as she’s relieved to be called on jury duty because that means she can get away from her colleague that won’t leave her alone and she can finally have some peace. The book switches from things happening in the moment, in the court (told in 3rd person) and the journal entries (1st person) and that was done great; I personally enjoyed the journal entries more, although maybe enjoyed isn’t the right word as it shows her feelings and thoughts while being stalked by her co-worker. As the story progresses the stalking becomes more extreme, and it was so well written that her fear can be felt; I made my skin crawl.
Rafe’s obsession, and the ability not to get it to his head that she wasn’t interested in him, was a bit fascinating. But my fear was bigger than my fascination for his inability to comprehend rejection.
All that being said, now I have to complain about the last 1/3 of the book WITH SPOILERS. Even though things that happened in the court room had some effect on Clarissa’s story with Rafe, some things, like her kinda relationship with Robert, felt eh unnecessary. Becoming paranoid and suspecting every male character in the book, I thought in the end it would turn out that Robert is a psycho too, that would’ve been a much better end than the one that happened – it turns out Robert’s a lying, cheating bastard.
This is a very atmospheric book and I’m glad I didn’t find the audio book for this, because that would’ve made me even more uncomfortable. It started so good, however somewhere after the 2/3 all the creepiness that hooked me to the book was toned down. And that end, oh; it was insipid compared to the rest of the book.
The story follows Clarissa as she’s relieved to be called on jury duty because that means she can get away from her colleague that won’t leave her alone and she can finally have some peace. The book switches from things happening in the moment, in the court (told in 3rd person) and the journal entries (1st person) and that was done great; I personally enjoyed the journal entries more, although maybe enjoyed isn’t the right word as it shows her feelings and thoughts while being stalked by her co-worker. As the story progresses the stalking becomes more extreme, and it was so well written that her fear can be felt; I made my skin crawl.
Rafe’s obsession, and the ability not to get it to his head that she wasn’t interested in him, was a bit fascinating. But my fear was bigger than my fascination for his inability to comprehend rejection.
All that being said, now I have to complain about the last 1/3 of the book WITH SPOILERS. Even though things that happened in the court room had some effect on Clarissa’s story with Rafe, some things, like her kinda relationship with Robert, felt eh unnecessary. Becoming paranoid and suspecting every male character in the book, I thought in the end it would turn out that Robert is a psycho too, that would’ve been a much better end than the one that happened – it turns out Robert’s a lying, cheating bastard.
May 31, 2018
This was an intense psychological thriller. It did not shy away from harsh details that were quite hard to read. The book follows Clarissa, a woman who is being stalked by a colleague. She is desperately trying to gather evidence to be able to take her case to the police. At the same time, she is called in for jury duty for the trial of a prostitute who has been gang-raped. Seeing parallels between the two cases, Clarissa realises how heavy the burden of proof is, while her stalkers actions are rapidly beginning to escalate.
The pacing of this book was fantastic and I felt constantly compelled to continue reading. The main character was smart and relatable and it was easy to feel her frustrations while also being scared for her. The ending of this book was perhaps the weak point. It didn't feel quite 'wrapped-up' but not so much that it ruined the book.
For a debut novel, this was great. I will keep an eye out for this author's future books.
The pacing of this book was fantastic and I felt constantly compelled to continue reading. The main character was smart and relatable and it was easy to feel her frustrations while also being scared for her. The ending of this book was perhaps the weak point. It didn't feel quite 'wrapped-up' but not so much that it ruined the book.
For a debut novel, this was great. I will keep an eye out for this author's future books.
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