“In the tiny world of chess, have you ever wondered how crappy it is to be a pawn?” Sidney’s lips came together, and her forehead wrinkled. “No, I can’t say I’ve ever considered that line of thought.” “Their only role is sacrifice and diversion.”
A part of me hated this book. A part of me loved it. But I mostly just want to discuss it with others. Regardless, I didn’t put it down from start to finish, so I guess that says something about the writing of Don’t Believe It. And as the New York Times book review states, “You can’t blame Charlie Donlea if the ending of his novel makes your jaw drop. The title alone is fair warning that his characters are no more to be trusted than our initial impressions of them.”
Book Summary of Don’t Believe It
The Girl of Sugar Beach is the most watched documentary in television history—a riveting, true-life mystery that unfolds over twelve weeks and centers on a fascinating question: Did Grace Sebold murder her boyfriend, Julian, while on a Spring Break vacation, or is she a victim of circumstance and poor police work? Grace has spent the last ten years in a St. Lucian prison, and reaches out to filmmaker Sidney Ryan in a last, desperate attempt to prove her innocence.
As Sidney begins researching, she uncovers startling evidence overlooked during the original investigation. Before the series even finishes filming, public outcry leads officials to reopen the case.
Delving into Grace’s past, Sidney peels away layer after layer of deception. But as she edges closer to the real heart of the story, Sidney must decide if finding the truth is worth risking her newfound fame, her career . . . even her life.
Discussion Guide (trying to avoid spoilers)
Throughout the book, what theories did you have about who killed Julian? Were you surprised when the truth was revealed?
After learning the truth, were you surprised that Grace tried so fervently to prove her innocence?
Were you surprised that Sidney didn’t record more of her interviews? Or that even after such popularity, she still continued to operate solo or with only one cameraman?
Were you satisfied with the book’s ending? Why or why not?
Do you think a sequel should be written?
If you liked this book, you should check out "The House in the Pines" next.
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