Eight years ago Geniver Loxley lost her baby daughter Beth.
Ever since she has been struggling to make sense of what happened and move on with her life. While her husband Art builds his business reputation and their fortune, Gen can’t forget Beth.
Then a stranger turns up at her door telling Gen the very thing she’s been longing to hear – Beth is still alive.
It’s insane. Unthinkable. But why would someone make up such a story? Ignoring the warnings of her husband and friends, Gen begins to hope – hope that quickly turns into fear and paranoia.
With questions swirling around her head, Gen is determined to uncover the truth. But who can she trust? Why is Art so reluctant to get involved? To save his wife from further hurt? Or something much more sinister? Is Beth even really out there? And, if so, who is responsible for taking her?
What is the truth about Beth Loxley?
Close My Eyes, written by Sophie McKenzie, is a brand new release from Simon & Schuster.
Available in paperback where all good books are sold for $24.99. Also available as an ebook for $13.99.
Finished this novel,it was very hard too put down. I found it really good and enjoyed the end I was right had a feeling from when first met the character. I would definitely read another book by this author and genre. Anyone who is a parent should read this, it tugs at the emotions.
Once I started reading this book it was really hard to put down. It takes you through the highs and lows of the main character throughout her journey. Gripping and suspenseful drama that makes me what to read more from this great author. Would recommend this read to anyone and have already spoken to many about how much a great read this book was. Thoroughly enjoyable.
Now that I have finished the book,I can say that I loved it.I found a little slow at first but after Lucy was introduced I found it hard to put down. I would definitely read another book by Sophie Mckenzie especially if its a sequel.And I have already passed this novel onto a friend. Thanks MoM
I absolutely loved this book. After the first 5 chapters I think the pace picked up heaps. It was a bit slow at first for me (although it jumped into the story straight away) but when it picked up it really picked up and I trouble putting it down. One of the best thrillers I've come across in ages! It had me guessing at every turn. I would definitely recommend this book if you like thrillers and even if you don't!!!!
This book is really really good, I really felt if engaged me a lot, I found It very difficult to put down, had to be reading it all the time, really annoyed the crap out of my hubby! which made it even better,
very good story , would be happy to read it again!
Now that I've finished the book,I really don't know how I feel about it,I think because it ended very differently from what I was expecting.It was hard to put down and definitely a great read.Another reviewer likened it to Jodi Piccoult's type of book.I agree,very much like her style of writing.I would definitely recommend it.I would also read any other book from this Author.
The characters in this book were intriguing, each with their own back story that had twists throughout the book. It was refreshing to read a book that actually talked about still birth (even though that event is part of the twist and turns in the storyline, involving many characters), and the different emotions experienced. The topic was tackled well by the author. The story had me unable to put the book down, with all the unexpected twists. Look forward to reading more from this author.
I really enjoyed the book the plot was close to home with a stillbirth and I admired her determination to find the truth. Totally unbelievable and some of the characters has great flaws but overall well written and thought out. The ending left me wondering what would happen next ( ok so it's a bit obvious) but still I really enjoyed it and will be passing it on to my mum to read.
Thank you for picking me. To be honest, I found it quite start to begin with however, then came Lucy. I admired the characters determination to find the truth. It was hard to put down from time to time. Love it how some characters had flaws as we do. I would recommend. I've passed onto my mum now to read. Thank you :)
This book is really really good, I really felt if engaged me a lot, I found It very difficult to put down, had to be reading it all the time, really annoyed the crap out of my hubby! which made it even better,
very good story , would be happy to read it again!
Once I started reading this book it was really hard to put down. It takes you through the highs and lows of the main character throughout her journey. Gripping and suspenseful drama that makes me what to read more from this great author. Would recommend this read to anyone and have already spoken to many about how much a great read this book was. Thoroughly enjoyable.
Now that I've finished the book,I really don't know how I feel about it,I think because it ended very differently from what I was expecting.It was hard to put down and definitely a great read.Another reviewer likened it to Jodi Piccoult's type of book.I agree,very much like her style of writing.I would definitely recommend it.I would also read any other book from this Author.
Sophie Mckenzie had me along for the ride. I thought it a little far fetched in the beginning, but then found myself questioning everyone involved and it got Interesting. It wasn't til' towards the end I suspected the Husbands step-sister Morgan, but then looking at her personality It should have pointed to her. She was DEFINITELY a mysterious character from the beginning and the Husband and Morgan's initial contact in meeting should have shown me a sign. But it wasn't until the end. Enjoyed! :)
Now that I have finished the book,I can say that I loved it.I found a little slow at first but after Lucy was introduced I found it hard to put down. I would definitely read another book by Sophie Mckenzie especially if its a sequel.And I have already passed this novel onto a friend. Thanks MoM
As though i havent completed it but it sounds really great for me.am still in the middle of the page but it is dragging me daily to read some more things to the further.after finishig the book am sure i will wait for the next one from this author.thanks you very much.
All of the twists and turns that surround the main character are certainly intriguing, and the very start of the book had me hooked, a page turner, one you wont want to put down, and hits on some very emotional issues that will be close to the heart of many.
The ending however didn't quite "flow" for me, and I must admit I was disappointed with the ending, it left me feeling all dark and heavy.
The characters in this book were intriguing, each with their own back story that had twists throughout the book. It was refreshing to read a book that actually talked about still birth (even though that event is part of the twist and turns in the storyline, involving many characters), and the different emotions experienced. The topic was tackled well by the author. The story had me unable to put the book down, with all the unexpected twists. Look forward to reading more from this author.
I found the premise of the story intriguing. The writing reminds me of Jodi Picoult. I'm very curious to see how it turns out. Where is Beth? Did Art really set her up? Why, why, why? I'm hoping he did, I like villains (evil laugh).
This book pulled at your heart strings and make you think about things that you shouldn't. It is not the sort of book that I normally would read but I am glad I did. It kept me turning the pages until the very end. A little disappointed in the ending but a good read
A suspenseful, thrilling, heart wrenching page-turner. I could feel Gen's pain from the minute I started reading, and was quickly drawn into the story from the very first shock.
The author's writing style flows and is easy to read with no complicated or confusing language. The story line is easy to follow, and keeps you reading on as you're dealt with one shock after another all the way through the story.
I didn't really like the journal entries throughout the book. I found them annoying and out of place, and from the first one I had already guessed who was behind them. I understand why they were there but I think the story wouldn't have been much different if they weren't included.
Towards the end, the story starts to seem rather far-fetched. Once I had finished the book, I wasn't really sure of my feelings about it. I felt like the suspense of the story line was building up to something huge, but I was left feeling somewhat dissatisfied. Even the chilling diary entry as the finale didn't feel right to me.
I would be willing to read another book from this author before forming a definitive opinion of her as a writer. I have passed the book onto my sister to read and I'm interested to see what her opinion of it will be.
I am only half way through this book and what can I say! It gets you right into to book and I believe it makes you part of the story. The storyline makes you wanting to turn the page to find out more.It is heart touching and I will recommend everyone to read this book.Can't wait to finish reading it. Thank you for allowing me to review this book and I can't wait to finish it.
Thankyou firstly for selecting me to review this book.Even though I haven't finished it yet,I am totally hooked!This book is easy to read and the character descriptions keep you interested.I will be passing it on to my friends to read.I'll post my final review when finished.
I enjoyed reading this and felt from the beginning the paranoia of Gen. It was a page turner where i was wanting to know what happens next and what she will find in the end. It did intrigue me and is definitely a psychological thriller in all senses of the word
When I started reading this book I was indifferent about the main character - and this opinion did not get any better as I read more. However, I really enjoyed the non stop action that started on page one and lasted right up until the end. I just wish I had liked the main character more because I did not care about her or what happened to her. The mystery of this story was addictive it was absolutely compelling - I had no idea what could possibly have happened and in the end this was because it was a ridiculous outcome - believability was sacrificed for the story which led to an enthralling read but unsatisfying finale. All told I found the book a page turner but I am not sure if I will seek the author out again.
Finished this novel,it was very hard too put down. I found it really good and enjoyed the end I was right had a feeling from when first met the character. I would definitely read another book by this author and genre. Anyone who is a parent should read this, it tugs at the emotions.
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Article
‘Trust Your Intuition’: How To Advocate For Your Child In Hospital
Mother’s instinct is a funny thing. At home, we trust it without question. But put us in a hospital setting with an unwell child, surrounded by doctors, nurses and monitors, and suddenly we start doubting ourselves.
What if I’m overreacting? What if I’ve got it wrong?
So we stay quiet, even when we know something just isn’t right with our child. I’ve been there myself – when my usually ‘tough’ son was doubled over with stomach pain. I was told in the emergency department that it probably wasn’t his appendix. But I knew he wouldn’t have begged me to take him to hospital unless it was serious. Because I know him better than anyone. Turns out, it was appendicitis.
It’s a really common place for parents to land. You’re grateful for the care your child is getting, but at the same time, you feel this huge responsibility to speak up if something doesn’t feel right.
Here’s the thing though: that instinct you’re feeling? It matters more than you might think.
Why your gut feeling matters more than you realise
According to Paediatric Nurse Unit Manager, Canterbury Hospital, Leticia Jackson, parents bring something to the hospital that no test or machine ever could.
“Parents often say they ‘just know’ when something isn’t quite right with their child, and in a hospital, that gut feeling is incredibly valuable,” she explains.
Leticia Jackson, Paediatric Nurse Unit Manager, Canterbury Hospital
While medical teams rely on observations, tests and equipment, parents know the little details. The way your child usually smiles. How they react when they’re tired. What’s normal for them.
So when something feels “off”, even if everything looks okay on paper, it can actually be an early warning sign.
“When parents trust those instincts and speak up, this creates a powerful partnership that can sometimes catch a problem before it becomes an emergency,” Leticia says.
Worried about speaking up? You’re not alone
A lot of parents hesitate about advocating for their child.
You don’t want to come across as difficult. You don’t want to question the people caring for your child. And sometimes, you just don’t feel confident enough to push the issue.
Leticia gets it.
“It is completely understandable for parents to feel hesitant,” she says. “No one wants to be seen as difficult or to second-guess the hardworking people caring for their child.”
But here’s a helpful way to look at it: you’re not challenging the medical team, you’re helping them.
Parents are the constant. Staff change shifts, care for multiple patients, and rely on snapshots of information. You’re there the whole time, noticing the subtle changes.
“Our medical team doesn’t view a concerned parent as overreactive, but as a partner,” Leticia explains. “Your voice matters.”
Remember, we know our children better than anyone.
What to do if you’re worried: the Raise It process
If you’re in a NSW public hospital or health service and you’re worried about you or your child’s condition getting worse, there is a clear process you can follow called Raise It.
Raise It is designed to help patients, carers and family members get help fast if they’re worried about a change in their loved one’s condition.
Here’s how it works:
Talk: Start by speaking to a nurse, midwife, doctor or health worker about your concerns.
Ask: Still worried? Ask to speak to the nurse or midwife in charge and request a Clinical Review.
Call: If you’re still concerned, you can escalate further using the Raise It process to get urgent attention from a senior health worker.
You don’t need medical knowledge. You don’t need to be certain. If you feel something isn’t right, or your child is getting worse, Raise It. You just need to speak up.
What should you actually look out for?
Sometimes it’s not one big, obvious sign. It can be small, subtle changes that just don’t sit right.
Things like:
Changes in breathing (fast, laboured or noisy)
Skin looking pale, mottled, or developing unusual rashes
Your child being unusually drowsy, floppy, or hard to wake
Confusion or behaviour that’s out of character
Pain that isn’t improving with treatment
Or simply that feeling that your child is getting worse
And sometimes, it’s just that gut feeling you can’t explain.
That’s enough.
“You are helping us, not bothering us”
If there’s one message Leticia wants parents to take away, it’s that you aren’t bothering the medical team, you’re helping them.
“In my years as a Nurse Unit Manager, I can say with absolute certainty that many critical changes in a child’s condition have been identified first by a parent. While our clinical staff are highly skilled at performing regular observations and interpreting data, parents are the only constant presence who truly know their child’s baseline behaviour, personality, and what is normal for them.
“I have seen numerous instances where a parent’s insistence that their child is “just not themselves” – despite vital signs appearing relatively stable – has prompted a deeper clinical review that uncovered everything from early signs of sepsis to a life-threatening respiratory crisis.”
The Raise It process exists because healthcare teams know how important parents are in keeping children safe.
“Speaking up doesn’t mean you don’t trust the team,” she says. “It means you’re partnering with us to make sure nothing gets missed.”
And if you’re still worried about being judged?
“Whether your concern turns out to be something or nothing, your instinct to raise it is always valid.”
You should never second guess yourself when it comes to yours or your childs health- or anyones for that matter. Go with your thoughts. It is natural to want to protect a loved one especially when it comes to health situations, and the feeling you get when you think you didnt do enough to advocate or fight for them…it is not a kind or nice way to feel. Many people have ended up being heartbroken and picking up pieces for years because of feeling they didnt do enough.
A very good and informative article. I have read so many stories about mums just knowing when things are not right and demanding second and third opinions until they got the right answer. Sometimes mums just know. It is our job as care takers of our families. Listen to your gut!
Years ago, I spoke up for my 14-year-old daughter, but my concerns weren’t fully listened to. I’ve always wished I had pushed harder. She was sent home without much testing, and two days later, she passed away.
So, if you ever have concerns—no matter how minor—please speak up and keep advocating. Trust your instincts; they are there for a reason.
This is so important for parents to know how to raise it further if they don’t think their child is receiving the medical support they need! I know this article refers to the NSW system but other systems have similar procedures just with different names. I know in QLD it’s called Ryan’s Rule.
It’s so important to follow your gut instincts and express your concerns indeed. I have never hesitated to advocate for my children in various situations and I don’t care what other people think about it. Not all doctors and medical staff appreciate it when you question them, I’ve experienced that it may result in angry indignant responses.
How true this is! While nurses and doctors are the medical professionals doing their job on the daily, we know our children better than anyone and what is ‘normal’ for them. I would always speak up if I had noticed any changes in my child’s health and encourage other parents to do so too. No question is silly!
This really is such an important issue and a good topic to discuss with people, I am often surprised that people are worried about being judged. This is not something I care about; the priority is for the care and health of everyone is my family. Parents know their children and need to work with health professionals for the best outcomes for their children.
This is such an important issue to raise, and no one should ever feel ashamed, nervous or that they are being OTT for advocating for their kids, themselves or loves ones in hospital. In QLD we have Ryan’s Rule. A three step process where your concern will be escalated if they believe the patients condition isn’t improving or is worsening.
I have never been afraid to advocate for my children and partner and extended family and also friends. It is so important to listen and to trust intuition. When people have not listened, I have persevered and kept on with insisting on care and making sure they truly listened and took action.
4:44 pm
Close my eyes
6:53 pm
great suzspense read
11:10 am
Suspenseful and gripping drama novel
12:54 am
loved it
abit slow at first but straight to the point loved the twisted n turns
End was good too not who i was thinking.will tell peopl e
about this book .
6:04 pm
loved it
6:50 pm
More like "Keep Your Eyes Open"!!!
5:22 pm
LOVE IT
very good story , would be happy to read it again!
1:51 pm
Wow what a book!!!
5:45 pm
A page turner
3:26 pm
Close your eyes
6:53 pm
great suzspense read
8:47 pm
I read in one day!
5:22 pm
LOVE IT
very good story , would be happy to read it again!
11:10 am
Suspenseful and gripping drama novel
1:51 pm
Wow what a book!!!
12:28 pm
WOW! Who would have thought, a Husband?
6:04 pm
loved it
11:22 pm
really very interesting
9:33 pm
Close My Eyes not for the faint hearted
The ending however didn't quite "flow" for me, and I must admit I was disappointed with the ending, it left me feeling all dark and heavy.
Despite that it was a very compelling read.
5:45 pm
A page turner
5:47 pm
Nice start
I hope she gets a great revenge too :)
9:19 am
a page turner
9:47 pm
Great but the ending left me disappointed
The author's writing style flows and is easy to read with no complicated or confusing language. The story line is easy to follow, and keeps you reading on as you're dealt with one shock after another all the way through the story.
I didn't really like the journal entries throughout the book. I found them annoying and out of place, and from the first one I had already guessed who was behind them. I understand why they were there but I think the story wouldn't have been much different if they weren't included.
Towards the end, the story starts to seem rather far-fetched. Once I had finished the book, I wasn't really sure of my feelings about it. I felt like the suspense of the story line was building up to something huge, but I was left feeling somewhat dissatisfied. Even the chilling diary entry as the finale didn't feel right to me.
I would be willing to read another book from this author before forming a definitive opinion of her as a writer. I have passed the book onto my sister to read and I'm interested to see what her opinion of it will be.
11:18 am
Close my eyes
I am only half way through this book and what can I say! It gets you right into to book and I believe it makes you part of the story. The storyline makes you wanting to turn the page to find out more.It is heart touching and I will recommend everyone to read this book.Can't wait to finish reading it. Thank you for allowing me to review this book and I can't wait to finish it.
4:06 pm
From the beginning hard to put down!
9:13 am
A good mystery
6:03 pm
I'm hooked
I haven't finished yet. But from the beginning I'm invested in the characters.
Does Gen believe Lucy?
Is Art really involved?
And I'm suspicious of Hen. What's her story?
I love stories that you can't wait to finish and this is one of them.
10:10 pm
Baffling mystery solved by unbelievable ending
4:44 pm
Close my eyes
12:54 am
loved it
abit slow at first but straight to the point loved the twisted n turns
End was good too not who i was thinking.will tell peopl e
about this book .
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