Don't Let Her Stay

Content Warning: This novel contains descriptions of emotional abuse, death by suicide, and stigmatizing and potentially offensive language and stereotypes regarding people with mental health conditions. Its contents are reflected in this study guide.

How does the novel obscure the fact that Chloe is gaslighting Joanne? What narrative tricks does the author use to support Chloe’s version of events? Where does the author suggest Joanne’s narration is unreliable?

How does the novel use twists to recast and recontextualize events that already occurred? In what ways does this increase the narrative tension?

When Richard leaves for his trip in Chapter 33, do you think he is aware of the danger he’s leaving Joanne and Evie in? Do you think he always planned to come back early?