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The Book of Guilt

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The Book of Guilt

By: Catherine Chidgey
Narrated by: George Naylor, Alison Campbell
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About this listen

England, 1979. Vincent, Lawrence and William are the last remaining residents of a secluded New Forest home, part of the government's Sycamore Scheme. Every day, the triplets do their chores, play their games and take their medicine, under the watchful eyes of three mothers: Mother Morning, Mother Afternoon and Mother Night.

Their nightmares are recorded in The Book of Dreams.
Their lessons are taken from The Book of Knowledge.
And their sins are reported in The Book of Guilt.

All the boys want is to be sent to the Big House in Margate, where they imagine a life of sun, sea and fairground rides. But, as the government looks to shut down the Sycamore Homes, the triplets begin to question everything they have been told.

Gradually surrendering its dark secrets, The Book of Guilt is a profoundly unnerving exploration of belonging in a world where some lives are valued less than others.

©2025 Catherine Chidgey (P)2025 Penguin Random House Australia Audio Thriller & Suspense
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the best thing to come out of new Zealand literature since pet - 10/10 would 100% recommend.

amazing social commentary

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Catherine Chidgey is such a talented writer, her characters come to life and I often find myself mulling over what has happened or what will happen next.
Loved The Axeman’s Carnival and this was also a standout. You find yourself thinking about it weeks later! Very clever author 🌟

Brilliant characters - so real ‘ll

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Well a story with a difference. Very well written. A bit confusing initially but all is revealed. Would have been nice to have a final reunion.

A slow burner but excellent

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A fascinating story I fiund hard to put down. Well written and happy to give 5 stars.

Excellent story and narration

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An excellent book. I found it difficult to stop listening. Catherine Chidgey created a frightening alternative world.

The book of guilt

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In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.