Laura Lippman's first foray into the horror genre sees writer Gerry bed bound and receiving phone calls from a woman who doesn't exist. "Dream Girl" unfolds via flashbacks to different points in Gerry's past. Based in Baltimore, Gerry is a bewildered boomer, finding the world somewhat unrecognisable in his advancing years. The book is rich in literary references and explores dementia through Gerry's Mother and his own loosening grip on reality.