Sometimes When I Sleep - Helen Salsbury

Sometimes When I Sleep - a novel by Helen Salsbury (paperback)

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For Harriet, Eden University is a chance to escape the shadows of a family tragedy and reinvent herself, even though she doesn't know exactly who she is or where she belongs. She's grown up hiding from curious eyes, and seeking refuge in the music of Dark Island, who appear to be the only ones who have words for her hidden traumas. Spurred by a promise from Dark Island that she's leaving the shadows, Harriet is convinced that university will be the place where all this changes. And yet, finding where she belongs is not easy. As the structures which have kept Harriet safe start to crumble, she comes to believe she has found a soulmate in the mysterious and compelling Iquis. But neither girl is telling everything, perhaps not even to themselves.

Influenced by Gothic literature, this coming-of-age story explores the intense relationships which form on the cusp between childhood and adulthood. It's likely to appeal to readers of Joanna Harris, Maggie O’Farrell, and Holly Bourne.

“Combines all the best elements of traditional gothic fiction with a relatable coming of age narrative between two female protagonists. The prose is both witty and poetic, exploring not only the relationship between the two girls but their connection to the world around.” Clare, Goodreads reviewer.

“One of those timeless, powerful books…” Kayla C reviews

“A mesmerising story that hooks the reader in from the first page, keeps you captivated and frantically turning the pages. The scenes and settings are described in such vivid detail that there are times when you can physically feel the rain on your skin and the cold of the snow chilling your bones.” Nicki, Goodreads reviewer and book blogger

"will make a perfect book club read as it has all the elements needed for some great discussions." AtomicBooks, Goodreads reviewer and book blogger