Anna O: A Novel
“A riveting, unsettling crime novel that will keep you turning pages well past your bedtime. Is Anna O a sleeping beauty or a sleeping killer? Matthew Blake's tension-filled thriller is as elusive and mysterious as sleep itself.”—Nita Prose, #1 New York Times author of The Maid and The Mystery Guest *** Joining the ranks of Gillian Flynn, A. J. Finn, and Alex Michaelides, Matthew Blake delivers the thriller of the year: a dark, twisty, and shocking mystery about a young woman who commits a double murder while sleepwalking, and then never opens her eyes again. THE WORLD WILL KNOW HER NAME *** What if your nightmares weren’t really nightmares at all? We spend an average of 33 years of our lives asleep. But what really happens, and what are we capable of, when we sleep? Anna Ogilvy was a budding twenty-five-year-old writer with a bright future. Then, one night, she stabbed two people to death with no apparent motive—and hasn’t woken up since. Dubbed “Sleeping Beauty” by the tabloids, Anna’s condition is a rare psychosomatic disorder known to neurologists as “resignation syndrome.” Dr. Benedict Prince is a forensic psychologist and an expert in the field of sleep-related homicides. His methods are the last hope of solving the infamous “Anna O’” case and waking Anna up so she can stand trial. But he must be careful treating such a high-profile suspect—he’s got career secrets and a complicated personal life of his own. As Anna shows the first signs of stirring, Benedict must determine what really happened and whether Anna should be held responsible for her crimes. Only Anna knows the truth about that night, but only Benedict knows how to discover it. And they’re both in danger from what they find out.
Anna O: A Riveting Exploration of Identity and Healing
Matthew Blake's "Anna O: A Novel" is a captivating and thought-provoking literary work that delves into the complexities of identity, mental health, and the power of self-discovery. In this novel, Blake skillfully weaves a narrative that not only entertains but also prompts readers to contemplate the intricate facets of the human psyche.
Synopsis: "Anna O" introduces readers to the eponymous protagonist, a character grappling with the challenges of mental health and the enigma of her own identity. The narrative takes us on a journey through Anna's experiences, blending elements of mystery, psychology, and personal growth. As the story unfolds, readers are drawn into Anna's world, where the line between reality and the workings of the mind becomes increasingly blurred.
Exploration of Mental Health: Blake sensitively explores the intricacies of mental health in "Anna O." Through the protagonist's struggles, the author sheds light on the often misunderstood and stigmatized realm of psychological disorders. The novel serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding when confronting the complexities of mental well-being.
Character Development and Identity: The strength of "Anna O" lies in the compelling development of its characters. Anna's journey becomes a metaphor for the broader quest for self-discovery and the construction of one's identity. Blake skillfully navigates the layers of his characters, creating a narrative that is not only engaging but also resonant with the universal human experience of seeking one's true self.
Narrative Style and Atmosphere: The novel is characterized by a captivating narrative style that keeps readers immersed in Anna's world. Blake's prose is evocative, creating an atmosphere that mirrors the emotional landscape of the characters. The pacing is well-executed, with each chapter unveiling a new layer of the story, keeping readers eagerly turning the pages.
Themes of Healing and Resilience: "Anna O" is ultimately a story of healing and resilience. As the narrative unfolds, readers witness Anna's journey toward self-acceptance and the discovery of her own strength. The novel encourages reflection on the transformative power of confronting one's demons and the healing that can emerge from within.
Conclusion: In "Anna O: A Novel," Matthew Blake delivers a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of mental health, identity, and the human spirit. The novel's rich character development, evocative prose, and thematic depth make it a standout work in contemporary literature. Blake's ability to navigate the complexities of the mind and heart results in a novel that resonates with readers long after the final page. "Anna O" is not merely a story; it is an introspective journey that invites readers to contemplate their own paths of self-discovery and healing. Highly recommended for those seeking a novel that combines entertainment with profound insights into the human condition.
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Matthew Blake, Author 
Crafting Intriguing Tales from the Depths of Sleep
Enter the world of Matthew Blake, a London-based author and storyteller whose narratives explore the enigmatic realm where dreams and reality collide. With a unique blend of research, mystery, and a keen eye for storytelling, Blake has etched his name onto the literary canvas, captivating readers with his debut novel, Anna O.
Matthew Blake's journey into the world of fiction was sparked by a captivating revelation: the average person spends a staggering thirty-three years of their life asleep. This realization became the catalyst for extensive research into sleep-related crimes and the mysterious resignation syndrome. It was during this exploration that Blake uncovered a thrilling question: if someone commits murder while sleepwalking, are they innocent or guilty? The answer to this question became the heartbeat of his novel, Anna O.
Before delving into the world of fiction, Matthew Blake honed his skills as a researcher and speechwriter at the Palace of Westminster. His academic journey included the study of English at Durham University and Merton College, Oxford, where his passion for language and storytelling found fertile ground.
Anna O, Blake's debut novel, achieved international acclaim even before its release, garnering 16 offers within 48 hours and securing multiple record-breaking deals worldwide. Released in the US on January 2nd, the novel quickly became a sensation, captivating readers with its gripping narrative and thought-provoking themes.
Beyond the world of literature, Matthew Blake has also made his mark as a screenwriter, collaborating with esteemed platforms such as the BBC, ITV Studios, and various UK indies. His ability to weave compelling stories extends across multiple mediums, showcasing a versatile talent that resonates with audiences.
As a London resident, Matthew Blake continues to be a creative force, pushing the boundaries of storytelling. Explore the depths of sleep, mystery, and the human psyche through the lens of Matthew Blake's imagination, where each page is an invitation to unravel the secrets hidden within the folds of consciousness.
Connect with Matthew Blake:
- Website: Matthew Blake
- Twitter: @Matthew__Blake
- Instagram: @matthewblakewriter
Blake has demonstrated exceptional skill in creating a remarkable character with a remarkably complex disorder. The meticulousness and extensive research he has put into this fascinating first novel are apparent, as it seamlessly intertwines two narratives, concise chapters, and his unique ability to create suspenseful moments that urge readers to continue reading. This achievement is truly deserving of recognition.
While it may be too early to declare "ANNA O" as the best book I will read in '24, I can confidently say that Anna Ogilvy will remain etched in my memory for quite some time and it's going to be hard to top it.
Moreover, the insights I gained about sleep and this particular psychiatric disorder, Resignation Syndrome, are noteworthy.
Harper Collins has acquired a treasure, and enthusiasts of Psychological Thrillers have struck gold.
I wholeheartedly give this novel a resounding "You've Got To Read This Now" rating, and Matthew Blake has undoubtedly earned a permanent spot on my radar as an auto-buy author from this point forward.
First off, this plot was Hitchcockian to the extreme. Finely layered and peppered with deftly hidden clues, I didn’t have a chance to guess what was to come before even one of the jaw-dropping reveals. Told through multiple POVs and Anna’s own journal entries, the onion-like buildup to this dynamite plot was truly sublime. I do have to say, however, that the twists were the ultimate stamp of perfection. Actually causing me to shout “WHAT?!?” as my jaw quite literally dropped more than once, they were clever and cunning in a way few authors can muster.
Then there were the sharp characters who felt wholly true-to-life in a book that had a ripped-from-the-headlines appeal. With believable behaviors and equally realistic thoughts, they were used by Blake to con and misdirect yours truly over and over again. Take it from me, I fell in love with them all. Well, until the truth was revealed in all of its glory, of course. After that, some got my sympathy and others my happily doled out disdain.
I do have to say, however, that <b>the middle was rather obscure and long-winded. Diving deeply into the psychology of the case, I have to admit that I felt lost multiple times. Pile on the fact that it was a complex and intricate plot, and it was inevitable that I’d lose my way here and there. By the end, though, the blindingly brilliant climax and shock-inducing conclusion were sure to leave a s*** eating grin on my face just the same.
As I walk away from this novel, I can’t help but wonder what kind of crazy, virtuoso-like mind came up with this plot. Detailed and utterly awe-inspiring, it seriously reminded me of The Silent Patient in all of its mind-blowing intensity. Was it just a bit too long and perhaps somewhat overly convoluted? Yes, maybe a tad. All in all, however, I highly recommend giving this book a shot despite its early mixed reviews. Just don’t go in expecting an adrenaline-fueled storyline dripping in suspense. After all, the slow rollout of this groundbreaking mystery was just another one of its charms. Rating of 4.5 stars.
Thank you to Matthew Blake and HarperCollins for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Dr. Benedict (Ben) Prince is a forensic psychologist who is also an expert in sleep-related crimes. He has written articles and a book that have brought him to the attention of the public, especially regarding the case of Anna O. Anna Ogilvy stabbed her two best friends to death in her sleep when she was twenty-five. Since that night four years ago she has been in a deep sleep. This sleep, diagnosed as resignation syndrome, is a condition where a person enters an involuntary extended deep sleep as a way to avoid trauma. Ben recently wrote an article that suggested ways to address this condition, perhaps even cure it.
Ben works at the Abbey Sleep Clinic. When his boss Dr. Virginia Bloom summons him to a secret meeting with a man from the Ministry of Justice, he learns that Anna O. is going to be moved into the clinic. They want him to wake her up so she can be charged with murder. However, there are more secrets involved in this case that make success anything but a simple, guaranteed outcome.
Anna O. is a excellent, electrifying, exceptional, layered, and very unique novel. It is a very, very good complex psychological thriller. Anna O. is also much more literary, intricate, and thoughtful than the majority of psychological thrillers out there. Additionally, it does not follow the formula almost every other psychological thriller follows. The pre-publication notes on Anna O. really raised expectations to a pinnacle of excellence, which did a bit of a disservice to this intelligent, suspenseful, well-written novel that should be targeting literary readers who will appreciate and enjoy the basic mystery aspects while relishing all the other references made and layers it offers.
The narrative is told through several point-of-view, mainly Ben's, and Anna's journal entries. There are plenty of references to Hitchcock movies that help to add a thoughtful depth and an atmospheric tension. Readers can also expect references to many many literary works. Characters are portrayed as full realized, realistic complicated individuals. Readers are privy to private thoughts There are clues interspersed in the plot along with plenty of misdirection. Anna O. is definitely an engrossing literary psychological thriller written to be read carefully rather than racing through the pages.
Disclosure: My review copy was courtesy of HarperCollins via Edelweiss.
