Sleep Toward Heaven

Amanda Eyre Ward

Could you forgive the unforgivable? A story of love and forgiveness centering on three women whose lives are inextricably entwined - a murderess on death row, her victim's widow and a doctor on a journey of self-discovery. The characters got under my skin and provoked a range of emotions from sadness and sympathy through to anger and revulsion. A sometimes uncomfortable but always compelling read that poses many questions about human nature.

Extract

'She just wants to die' the woman continues. 'She's going to die. But why the state has to do it for her I don't know.'
'She is a murderer' I say.
The woman looks at me blearily. 'I know' she says. 'But it seems strange to me. I mean, who is going to help to kill this sick woman? How is it going to make a difference to anyone?'
She has me there. I don't have an answer for that one.
'I mean' says the woman...'I mean, is holding a grudge helping anyone?'
Maybe something shows in my face. I am not crying. My eyes are as dry as a bone.
'I'm so sorry' says the woman. 'It's been a terrible day. Please forgive me.'
'How about another drink?' I say.

Parallels