Synopses & Reviews
Rayne Holland seems to have it all: a handsome, successful husband, a beautiful five-year-old daughter, and a rapidly rising film career. What everyone doesn't know is that behind closed doors, the picture isn't so perfect. And in the recesses of Rayne's mind she harbors a dark past that even she in unaware of. Then tragedy strikes, and Rayne slowly discovers that the story of her life is just beginning and nothing and no one are as they seem. . .
Review
"
In My Bedroom is so powerful and mesmerizing that I was compelled to read it in one sitting. The characters are well-drawn and full of life--I feel like I know them personally."
- Mary Monroe, author of God Still Don't Like Ugly
"A beautifully written novel. An amazing eye-opener."
- Kimberla Lawson Roby, New York Times bestselling author of Too Much of A Good Thing
"Fans of Donna Hill's bestselling novels An Ordinary Woman and Rhythms, will enjoy her latest."
- Essence
". . . beautifully written, very powerful book. . . the overall message is one of understanding and hope."
- RT Bookclub
"The makings of a made-for-television movie."
- Publishers Weekly
Synopsis
An
Essence Bestselling Novel About Three Unforgettable Women and Their Explosive Relationships
About the Author
Donna Hill lives in Brooklyn, New York.
Reading Group Guide
1. Rayne and Gayle considered each other friends since childhood. However with Gayles jealousy and Raynes inability to open up to her friend; exactly what was their relationship?
2. The male characters in this book represented a larger than life strength and power. But their came a time for each of the female characters to realize their own strengths; which allowed them to see the men for who they really were. …as human. How was this represented in the story?
3. Do you think that if Edith had communicated to Rayne that she was being sent to her Aunt Maes home for Raynes own protection, as opposed to being sent due to Ediths jealousy, that would have helped Rayne in her growth and development? Or did the (10) years spent alone with her father make it already too late?
4. It seemed that in Raynes case Dr. Dennis own past of incest and abuse helped her in figuring our the kind of trauma that Rayne may have experienced. Did this knowledge help Rayne of did it hinder her treatment?
5. How do you feel about Robertss attraction to a woman who was committed to a mental institution? Did the fact that he already knew her as a successful movie producer overshadow the fact of where she was? Was his interest appropriate? (He did make the statement to Rayne to not allow where you are define who you are)
6. The two Raynes fought for their place as the prominent personality, who won out and why?
7. Self worth and the feeling of safety were taken away from both Rayne and Dr. Dennis at an early age. What was the contributing factor and how were they able to find such great success in their careers when they were so insecure with who they were as women?
8. The death of Paul and Desiree, though devastating, was not the worst obstacle she had to deal with. Why did she seem at peace with their death and more afflicted with the fears of the “shadows”?
9. Amazingly Gayle was able to put her life and her marriage back together. How did Raynes presence help in that situation?
10. Could Paul and James be considered contributors to their wives insecurities or were they victims?
11. Dr. Dennis questioned Gayles friendship and loyalty when trying to convince her to allow Rayne to stay at her home. Was that fair? Or was it just necessary for Dr. Dennis to do whatever it took to save Rayne from shock therapy.
12. Rayne saved herself by taking her power back from her father as one of her final steps to recovery. What made her want to help Edith as well?
13. In this story of incest, power and survival; there is a wonderful story about the will to survive and overcome even the most devastating of events. How is this represented in each of the characters?