All the Colors of the Dark Book Discussion Guide

Chris Whitaker is back at it again with his fifth novel, All the Colors of the Dark, published in 2024. If his name sounds familiar, it’s probably because he’s already cemented his spot as a New York Times and Sunday Times bestselling author. Oh, and did I mention this book is a Read with Jenna Book Club pick? It’s also snagged international bestseller status—not too shabby!

What’s Included in This Guide: Online & Printable Versions

Everything you need for a successful book club meeting for All the Colors of the Dark is included below. You’ll find discussion questions, food and drink ideas, and more!

We also have an optional printable book club kit to take your meeting to the next level. This blog post is customized to the guide and includes the following pages:

• Character List
• Discussion Questions
• Quotes from the Book
• Themed Book Ideas
• Printable Bookmarks
• Extra Info: Author facts
• Themed Food & Drink Ideas
• Book Covers from Around the World
• Custom Journal Page for Meeting Details
• Themed Notes Page
• List of Additional Book Club Resources

Book Club Questions | Additional Recommendations | Printable Book Club Kit

Characters | Summary | Book Club Ideas

About the Author | Q&A with Chris Whitaker | Book Review

All the Colors of the Dark

So, what’s the buzz about? The novel zooms in on two kids, Saint and Patch, whose quiet lives in the Ozarks take a sharp turn after a violent event changes everything. When Patch steps in to save a young woman, the ripple effects from that one moment spread throughout their tight-knit community and beyond.

Set in the U.S. between the 1970s and the 2000s, this book isn’t just about one event; it’s about the ripple effects it causes. Whitaker explores big themes like women’s fight for independence, the way trauma lingers, and how we figure out who we are.

Fair warning, though—this isn’t a light read. It dives into tough topics like abuse, violence, and mental health struggles. But if you’re up for something emotional and powerful, this book might just be worth your time.

All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker

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Release date: June 25, 2024
Genre: Family Life Fiction
Hardcover: 608 pages
Publisher: Crown

All the Colors of the Dark Book Reviews

“Chris Whitaker kept me frantically turning the pages and somehow made me cry at the end. . . . Brava!”—Kristin Hannah, #1 New York Times bestselling author

“With deeply affecting characters and ambition to spare, Whitaker has conjured a dazzling epic that defies easy categorization.”—Publishers Weekly, starred review

“Breathless . . . the story ripples out, spanning decades and perspectives, to consider how one moment transforms the lives of a little boy and the people who love him.”—The Washington Post

“Engrossing, heartbreaking and uplifting in equal measure—I’ve never read anything quite like it. This book will stay with you for a very long time.”—Lucy Foley, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Paris Apartment

All the Colors of the Dark Summary

The novel starts in the Missouri Ozarks with 13-year-old Joseph “Patch” Macauley. He’s got a rough life—born with one eye, bullied constantly, and living with his mom, Ivy, who’s struggling with addiction. But Patch has a vivid imagination, calling himself a pirate, a label his mom encourages to distract him from their struggles. His only real friend? Saint, a passionate beekeeper who lives with her grandma, Norma.

One day, everything changes. Patch saves Misty, his crush, from a violent man named Eli Aaron. But in the process, Aaron kidnaps Patch, leaving Saint desperate to find him. She investigates everyone from the local police to the town doctor. It’s a race against time, especially when another girl, Callie, goes missing. After nearly a year, Saint finds a lead that uncovers Aaron’s disturbing behavior. A fiery confrontation follows, leading to Aaron’s presumed death and Patch’s rescue. But nothing is the same.

Back home, Patch struggles to move on. Grace, Aaron’s daughter, had cared for him during his captivity, and now she’s gone. Obsessed with finding her, Patch distances himself from Saint and even Misty, who begins a tentative romance with him. Life takes Patch in unexpected directions—he becomes a talented artist, painting portraits of missing girls, works grueling jobs, and eventually quits school. Meanwhile, Saint uncovers more secrets in their community, including horrific crimes tied to the seemingly trustworthy Dr. Tooms.

As years pass, the story branches out. Patch turns to robbing banks to fund his search for Grace. Saint, now a police officer, struggles with her personal life—an abusive marriage, a secret pregnancy, and a decision to prioritize her career over societal expectations. Patch and Saint’s paths diverge and intersect in profound ways, testing their bond at every turn.

When Patch finally finds Grace, now free from Aaron’s clutches, the story takes another dramatic twist. His act of heroism comes with sacrifices, including imprisonment. But even behind bars, Patch is relentless in seeking justice for Grace and other victims. Saint, on the other hand, is forced to confront her own traumas, navigate the complexities of motherhood, and unravel dark truths about those she thought she knew.

The novel concludes with bittersweet reunions and unresolved questions. Patch, now a father, reconnects with Saint and their shared past. But the story doesn’t tie things up in a neat bow—it leaves you pondering the ripple effects of trauma, resilience, and love.

Book Club Questions for All the Colors of the Dark

If you’ve just finished All the Colors of the Dark (and if you haven’t, seriously—spoiler alert), I’ve got a bunch of juicy book club discussion questions lined up for you. This book is heavy with themes of love, loss, identity, and the complexity of human relationships, so there’s A LOT to talk about. Grab your tea (or wine) and let’s dive in!

1. From the very start, Patch is a dreamer—pretending to be a pirate as a kid and diving into an almost obsessive quest to find Grace as an adult. But how much of Patch’s actions are driven by a genuine need for closure, and how much are they influenced by his childhood fantasies? Do you think his romantic ideals hold him back or make him stronger?
2. Saint is smart, driven, and constantly trying to save everyone around her—whether it’s Patch or the people she serves as a police officer. But is all this self-sacrifice actually a form of coping with her own trauma and guilt? Let’s chat about whether Saint’s relentless need to fix things is a strength or a way to distract herself from her own feelings.
3. We know Grace through Patch’s eyes for a large part of the novel, and he sees her as the ultimate muse. But Grace is far more than a symbol. How do you think Grace’s upbringing shaped her into the person she becomes? Is she a survivor or a victim? And what did you think of her dynamic with Patch—did their connection feel real to you, or was it more about Patch’s need for redemption?
4. Wealth, poverty, and social status are major themes in this novel. From Patch’s complicated background to Saint’s struggle with expectations, it’s clear that money and class aren’t just surface-level issues. How do you think the characters’ financial situations impact their choices and relationships? How does class play a role in Patch’s search for Grace?
5. Why does young Saint feel like she has to take on the responsibility of finding Patch? Even though her grandmother (and basically everyone else) tells her to drop it, she pushes on. What drives her? And why does Chief Nix support her, even when he knows it could be dangerous?
6. Each character seems to be chasing something—or someone. Jimmy pursues Saint. Saint pursues Patch. Patch pursues Grace. Does anyone actually get what they’re after? Or is the pursuit itself what defines them? I’m curious to know your take on this recurring theme of desire.
7. Patch and Saint both go through some pretty intense journeys, but do they really change throughout the book? Or are they just learning to cope with the cards they’ve been dealt? What are your thoughts on their personal evolution (or lack thereof)?
8. These days, tracking someone down is as easy as Googling a name. But in the 70s and 80s, Patch and Saint have to rely on completely different methods to search for their loved ones. What did you think about the way they conducted their search—without social media, smartphones, or search engines? What made their pursuit of answers so unique?
9. At a certain point, Saint chooses to join Patch in searching for Grace. This decision changes her life in a big way. What do you think motivates her? And how does this choice alter her future?
10. Patch and Saint both have choices in life, but they choose different paths. Why do you think they make these choices, even when there are other options available to them? Are these paths driven by personal beliefs or circumstances? Do you think one is more noble than the other?
11. Saint notes that this is the first time Patch has saved a missing girl, but interestingly, she doesn’t claim the credit for the success. Why do you think she holds back? Is it a sign of humility, or is there something deeper at play?
12. This novel spans a few decades. As the years roll on, what kind of changes do we see in the town of Monta Clare and the larger country? Are there any moments or shifts in time that really stood out to you?
13. Even after all these years, Saint still sees Patch as a kid—someone she’s known forever. Why do you think she views him this way? Do you think it’s because of the history they share, or is there something deeper about how she perceives him?
14. Having a purpose is huge in this book. But what happens when that purpose shifts, or when it’s no longer possible to fulfill? Look at how the characters’ purposes evolve over time. What do you think the novel says about the importance of having something to live for?
15. The novel deals with a lot of trauma, and we often see the characters grappling with what they’ve lost. But how many victims are there, really? Or do you think they’re all survivors, in their own way? How do you view their resilience (or lack thereof)?
16. Patch’s art is central to the novel, and his paintings carry a lot of weight. What do the paintings offer to Patch? How do Sammy and other characters interpret them? Are the paintings merely a form of expression, or do they serve as a deeper symbol of the story’s themes?
17. Monta Clare is practically bursting with secrets. Which secret surprised you the most? Did any of the hidden truths change how you viewed a particular character?
18. Grace is a major figure in Patch’s life, but as the story unfolds, we’re left questioning whether she’s a real person or if Patch created her as part of his survival instinct. What did you think about her? Is she someone Patch truly loved, or is she a symbol of his trauma?
19. The novel touches on so many aspects of love—familial love, romantic love, love for art, and even self-love. What do you think the book says about these different kinds of love? How do love and sacrifice play into the decisions the characters make?
20. Okay, this book is full of messed-up family dynamics. Between Patch and Ivy, Saint and Norma, Misty and Charlotte, it’s clear that family isn’t always about happy holidays and perfect reunions. Which family relationship hit you the hardest? Did any of them surprise you, or were there moments where you thought, “Ugh, why can’t they just get along?”
21. Let’s talk about the villain, Eli Aaron. This guy is seriously twisted, but what do you think motivates him? He’s got that weird religious justification for his killings, but is there more to him than just being pure evil? Or is he just a product of the trauma he’s inflicted on his daughter, Grace?
22. The book constantly explores the gray areas between right and wrong. We see characters like Tooms, who performs illegal abortions even though he’s deeply religious, and Saint, who struggles with her own idea of justice. Do you think there’s ever a point where a character’s actions are justified even if they break the rules? Who did you sympathize with more: the law-abiders or the law-breakers?
23. Patch’s paintings of missing girls aren’t just random pieces of art—they’re a form of mourning, a way of grappling with his own trauma, and a representation of the victims he feels connected to. But do you think his focus on the tragedy of others keeps him from fully moving forward with his life? Or is art his way of coping with all the darkness around him?
24. Saint marries Jimmy thinking he’s the simple, good guy. But the reality is, he’s not as perfect as he seems. What does Jimmy’s character say about how we view people on the outside vs. what’s going on underneath? How does this relate to Saint’s idea of what she should want versus what she actually needs?
25. Several characters, like Sammy and Tooms, are on a quest for redemption, each with their own struggles and regrets. But do you think redemption is truly possible for everyone in the book? Which characters would you say actually earn their redemption, and which ones are just fooling themselves?
26. Whether it’s Tooms keeping his abortion secret or the whole town turning a blind eye to what Eli Aaron is doing, secrets are a huge theme in this novel. How do these secrets affect the characters? Do you think some things are better left unsaid, or do the consequences of keeping these secrets outweigh the lies?
27. So many of the characters are haunted by their pasts—whether it’s Misty’s guilt, Saint’s emotional scars from her marriage, or Grace’s years of trauma with her father. How does the novel portray trauma and its long-lasting effects? Do you think any of the characters truly find healing by the end of the story?
28. The novel wraps up with some pretty intense moments, especially with the deaths of key characters. But does it feel like everyone gets the closure they need? Or does the ending leave you feeling like there’s more left to resolve? What do you think happens next for characters like Saint and Charlotte?
29. Lastly, what does the book say about letting go? So much of this story revolves around characters holding on to things—whether it’s trauma, guilt, or lost loved ones. Do any of them actually let go by the end? Or is it more about learning to live with what they’ve lost?
30. The ending has a big, cathartic moment with Eli Aaron’s death. How did you feel about that moment? Was it satisfying, or did you think it was a little too rushed? And what about Grace’s reaction? Was her relief justified, or is there a part of her that’s always going to be haunted by what happened?

All the Colors of the Dark Characters

Joseph “Patch” Macauley

Patch is one of those characters who leaves a mark. Born with one eye, he’s described as wiry, with blonde hair “touching gold” and a smile that could charm anyone. But his childhood? Far from easy. Growing up in poverty with a mother struggling with addiction, Patch turned to imagination for survival, adopting the persona of a pirate—a thread that runs through his life, giving him strength and a sense of identity.

Despite being bullied and neglected, Patch has a strong moral compass. This is clear when he steps up to help Misty in a dangerous situation as a child, recognizing “the acute burden of seeing a girl in trouble.” This moment is so key—it shows us his courage and determination to do the right thing, no matter the cost.

As an adult, Patch channels his artistic talent into painting portraits of missing girls—a haunting yet beautiful testament to his inability to look away from life’s tragedies. His relationships with Saint, Misty, Sammy, and Charlotte are full of love but also strain, as his obsessive search for Grace often takes precedence. In the end, though, finding Grace helps him come full circle, allowing him to embrace a quieter life and truly be there for his daughter, Charlotte.

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Saint

Saint is the ultimate mix of brains, grit, and heart. As Patch’s childhood best friend, she’s fiercely loyal and determined. She starts off as an awkward kid and grows into a woman who, while physically attractive, doesn’t care much for appearances. Her strength lies in her stubbornness and her empathy.

From the start, Saint defies traditional expectations. Even as a kid, she’s not interested in playing the part of homemaker, instead focusing on big questions and her dreams of making a difference. This sets her at odds with her grandmother, Norma, who constantly pressures her to conform.

Saint’s journey is one of self-discovery and resilience. She escapes an abusive marriage, rises to the rank of police chief, and tirelessly pursues justice—not just for Patch but for so many others. Her empathy makes her an exceptional officer, but it also weighs on her. By the end of the novel, Saint learns to trust herself, realizing she doesn’t need her badge to validate her sense of right and wrong. Letting Patch walk free is a powerful testament to this growth.

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Ivy Macauley

Patch’s mother, Ivy, is a deeply tragic figure. Widowed by the Vietnam War, she struggles to support her son, juggling low-paying jobs and battling addiction. Despite her flaws, her love for Patch is undeniable. She weaves a fantastical pirate identity for him, giving him an escape from their harsh reality.

Sadly, Ivy’s life spirals after Patch’s kidnapping, and her addiction consumes her. The town judges her harshly for her poverty and appearance, but beneath it all, she’s a mother trying her best in impossible circumstances. Her quiet death marks the end of a troubled yet loving presence in Patch’s life.

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Norma

Saint’s grandmother, Norma, is a tough-as-nails woman with a big heart hidden under layers of practicality. A bus driver and devout Catholic, she’s also a heavy drinker and smoker—contradictions that make her endlessly fascinating. The town whispers that she’s a lesbian, based on her cigar-smoking, short-haired persona, but Norma brushes off the gossip.

Norma’s strength and resourcefulness shine, whether it’s through her woodworking skills or her blunt, no-nonsense approach to life. However, her traditional views create friction with Saint, particularly when it comes to gender roles. She remains blind to the faults of Saint’s abusive husband, Jimmy, insisting that women are meant to serve their men. Their relationship is complicated but loving, and Norma’s sudden death leaves Saint grappling with unresolved tensions.

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Sammy

If you’ve ever rooted for a messy redemption arc, Sammy’s your guy. He’s a mentor and father figure to Patch, but let’s be real—he’s also a bit of a disaster. Sammy owns the local art gallery in Monta Clare, where he’s better known for his womanizing and drinking than his artwork. Think tweed jackets, gold watches, and a completely unnecessary cane. Patch describes him as “handsome, though he carried an air of fallen-from-grace.”

Underneath the prickly exterior, Sammy has a heart of gold. He nurtures Patch’s artistic talent, looks out for him during his prison stint, and even helps raise Patch’s daughter, Charlotte. Sammy’s backstory adds depth to his character. His romance with Mary, derailed by her wealthy father’s bribe (a Rothko painting, of all things), comes full circle by the novel’s end. He admits, “I’d leave the Rothko where it was, because I already had something far more beautiful to make a life with.” It’s a touching redemption for a man who, despite his flaws, always seemed to try.

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Chief Nix

Nix is a character whose quiet strength sneaks up on you. The Monta Clare police chief is a father figure to Saint, but he’s much more than the town’s lawman. He’s described as having a “kind face” and a mustache, but his story is far deeper than his appearance. Nix is in a secret relationship with Tooms, the town doctor, a love they’ve kept hidden to avoid small-town scrutiny.

Nix is proof that morality isn’t always black and white. He takes justice into his own hands to avenge Callie, a victim of her father’s abuse. He buries secrets—literally—to protect others, but the weight of his choices becomes too much. His tragic suicide is both a heartbreaking end and a poignant reminder of his selfless love for Saint and Tooms. In his final words, he tells Saint that life is a collection of roles and responsibilities and that to love and be loved “is more than enough for a thousand ordinary lifetimes.” It’s a bittersweet farewell to a character who embodied quiet, profound humanity.

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Marty Tooms

Tooms is one of those characters who stays with you long after the final page. As Monta Clare’s doctor, he’s kind, melancholy, and deeply moral. Patch describes him as a man whose smile is “written with pain,” and that sums him up perfectly.

Tooms is a quiet hero, breaking rules to do what’s right. He secretly performs abortions for women in need and tends to Ivy Macauley without pay, despite the town’s judgment of her. He admits to Patch that he attends church not to find peace, but “to ask forgiveness for acts I know in my heart I will commit again.” Tooms is deeply religious, yet his actions challenge traditional morality in ways that feel heartbreakingly human.

He’s also fiercely loyal, even lying to Patch about Grace’s fate to spare him more pain. After losing Nix, Tooms retreats to the farm they once shared, living out his days in quiet solitude. It’s a peaceful but somber ending for a man who bore so much for others.

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Misty Meyer

Misty is one of those characters who feels larger than life, even in her absence. She’s Patch’s on-again-off-again partner and Charlotte’s mother. Born into privilege, Misty is the classic overachiever: a track star, Harvard-bound, and effortlessly admired. But beneath the surface, she’s tough and resilient.

After surviving a traumatic childhood event where Patch saves her, Misty struggles with guilt and survivor’s remorse. She briefly finds romance with Patch, but their relationship is complicated by their shared trauma and diverging paths. Misty eventually leaves Harvard to raise Charlotte in Monta Clare, ensuring her daughter has the stability and love she herself lacked.

Misty’s life is tragically cut short by cancer, but her legacy lives on through Charlotte. Her final act is one of love and sacrifice, ensuring Patch is part of their daughter’s life. She’s a character who lingers in the hearts of readers, much like she does for the people she loved.

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Eli Aaron (or Robert Peter Frederick)

Eli Aaron is one of the most chilling villains you’ll encounter in fiction—a calculated serial killer hiding behind a veneer of righteousness. By day, he’s a photographer, preying on girls with promises of stardom. By night, he buries their bodies with rosaries, convinced he’s “doing God’s work.” He targets girls who sought abortions from Tooms, labeling them “penitent sinners,” in a twisted act of judgment.

The novel doesn’t shy away from making Eli deeply unsettling. When Saint meets him as a child, his physical presence alone is terrifying: “His hands hung like meat by his side. His eyes were empty till he smiled, his teeth bright against stubbled skin.” The man is a walking nightmare.

But Eli’s horror doesn’t stop with his victims—it extends to his own daughter, Grace. He forces her to live on the run, threatening her into silence about his crimes. Grace’s life is a prison of fear and isolation, with Eli as her captor. By the novel’s climax, when Patch and Saint finally kill him, his death feels like justice—not just for Grace but for the countless lives he shattered.

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Grace

Grace is everything her father is not—kind, brave, and full of hope. As Eli’s daughter, her life has been defined by terror, but she refuses to let it define her spirit. Grace is the kind of character who sneaks into your heart without you realizing it.

Her relationship with Patch is the emotional anchor of the story. She saves him from her father’s clutches, keeping his hope alive in the darkness with her stories and her quiet strength. Later, Patch realizes she’s been his muse all along—his paintings captured her essence before he even knew her.

Patch describes her beauty with an artist’s eye: “The delicate purse of her lips, the full green of her eyes… Her hair was richly red, her dress pinched at a narrow waist.” But Grace is much more than a muse. She’s a survivor, a symbol of resilience and kindness in the face of unimaginable trauma.

What’s fascinating is how the narrative keeps Grace somewhat mysterious. While we see the impact she has on Patch, much of her characterization remains in the shadows. It’s a choice that makes her feel almost mythical, a beacon of light guiding Patch through his personal darkness.

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Jimmy Walters

If Eli is the blatant monster, Jimmy Walters is the wolf in sheep’s clothing. On the surface, he’s the ideal small-town guy—earnest, blue-eyed, and hardworking. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find an insecure, controlling man who turns his frustration and failures into weapons.

Saint marries Jimmy partly because her grandmother insists he’s “a good man” and partly because she’s drawn to his seemingly uncomplicated nature. But Jimmy’s simplicity is a facade. When his veterinary career doesn’t take off, he spirals into bitterness and alcoholism, blaming Saint for his shortcomings.

The relationship becomes abusive, culminating in a violent outburst when Saint admits she visited an abortion clinic. Jimmy’s behavior reflects how deeply ingrained misogyny and entitlement can corrupt even those who appear “upstanding.” His death—caused accidentally by Patch during a confrontation—feels like a tragic but inevitable end for a man consumed by his own demons.

All the Colors of the Dark Character List

Character	Role	Key Traits	Notable Arcs or Moments

Joseph “Patch” Macauley

Protagonist, artist, Grace’s love interest

Romantic, courageous, tough, artistic

Overcomes trauma to find Grace, paints missing girls, gains closure to be present for his daughter, Charlotte.

Saint Macauley

Protagonist, Patch’s childhood best friend, Monta Clare’s police chief

Smart, stubborn, empathetic, self-sacrificing

Escapes an abusive marriage, devotes life to justice, realizes self-worth beyond her badge, supports Patch’s freedom.

Ivy Macauley

Patch’s mother

Loving, but struggles with addiction and poverty

Creates a pirate persona for Patch to protect him emotionally, succumbs to addiction after his abduction.

Norma

Saint’s grandmother and guardian

Tough, unsentimental, devout Catholic, independent

Advocates traditional gender roles, blind to Jimmy’s flaws, dies suddenly, leaving Saint with unresolved feelings.

Sammy

Patch’s mentor, local gallery owner

Charismatic, abrasive, nurturing, fallen-from-grace

Redeems himself by helping Patch and Charlotte; rekindles romance with Mary, admitting past mistakes.

Chief Nix

Monta Clare’s police chief, Saint’s mentor, Tooms’s lover

Kind, morally complex, secretive

Takes justice into his own hands, dies by suicide to save Saint guilt, reminds her of the multifaceted nature of love.

Marty Tooms

Town doctor, Nix’s lover

Kind, melancholy, morally conflicted

Performs abortions in secret, refuses to betray women’s trust, finds quiet peace after Nix’s death.

Misty Meyer

Patch’s former love interest, Charlotte’s mother

Stubborn, tough, loving

Survives trauma, sacrifices for her daughter, maintains a complex but respectful relationship with Patch.

Charlotte Meyer

Patch and Misty’s daughter

Tough, feisty, skeptical

Struggles with abandonment fears, reconciles with Saint and Patch, embraces love and trust.

Eli Aaron

Antagonist, serial killer, Grace’s father

Manipulative, evil, fanatical

Murders girls under the guise of religion, terrorizes Grace, killed by Patch and Saint in a climactic confrontation.

Grace

Eli’s daughter, Patch’s love interest

Kind, clever, resilient

Saves Patch during captivity, acts as his muse, finds freedom and peace after Eli’s death.

Jimmy Walters

Saint’s ex-husband, minor antagonist

Controlling, uptight, abusive

Emotionally and physically abusive to Saint, dies after confrontation with Patch.

Chris Whitaker Author Biography

Chris Whitaker is a British author known for his compelling novels that blend suspense and emotional depth. Born in London, Chris spent a decade working as a financial trader before shifting gears to become a full-time writer. He now lives in Hertfordshire with his wife and three young children.

His debut novel, Tall Oaks, won the CWA John Creasey New Blood Dagger, and his third novel, We Begin at the End, has been widely praised, including being named Waterstones’ Book of the Month.

Chris’s journey into writing was an unexpected one, sparked by a life-changing event in his youth, and he has since built a reputation for creating gripping and heartfelt stories.

Q&A about All the Colors of the Dark with Chris Whitaker

Q: How has it been since your book came out?

A: It’s been a whirlwind since it came out. I found out about the Read with Jenna thing about a year before publication, and I was sworn to secrecy. I couldn’t tell anyone, so I just kept it quiet, and I was really excited. After that, everything kind of went mad. I started touring and haven’t stopped, really. The Joe Biden thing was huge too—when I saw her reading my book on the beach, I couldn’t believe it! It was surreal, and that was a real moment of recognition for me.

Q: When did you first begin working on this novel and what made you start it?

A: I started working on “All the Colors of the Dark” around 2019, right after I finished writing “We Begin at the End.” The idea was really simple at first—two abducted teenagers fall in love in the dark, and then the boy escapes and can’t find his way back to her. I was still working multiple jobs, and honestly, I didn’t expect much to come of it. But then lockdown happened, and everything changed. “We Begin at the End” became a big success, and I realized I could actually quit my other jobs and be a full-time writer, which was something I never thought would happen.

Q: Was the buzz about this book bigger than your last?

A: It definitely felt bigger. Jenna picking it for her book club was a huge moment, and when she said it was the best book she’d ever chosen, it instantly became number one on Amazon. From there, it just kept going. I had a whole new team working on the book, and seeing how dedicated they were made the process even more exciting. The buzz definitely felt bigger, and I had an incredible team behind me, so it’s been amazing to see how far it’s gone.

Q: How did you portray an American so authentically in your novel?

A: I hadn’t traveled much in the US before writing this book, but I relied heavily on research. I spent a lot of time learning about the towns and the weather and the way the landscape looked. What really helped me though was the characters. I spent a year just writing dialogue, learning how they speak and react to each other. That’s how I got to know them intimately, and it made their voices and the American setting feel real. The experience of a child in trouble is universal, but the characters and the settings come to life when you really dive deep into their lives.

For full interview with Chris, click here!

All the Colors of the Dark Book Club Ideas

Here are some All the Colors of the Dark book club ideas that will not only deepen your discussion but also make your next meeting something memorable. Grab your friends, your coffee (or wine), and let’s get creative!

A DIY Painting Session

Patch’s paintings are central to the novel—his art is not only a form of expression but also a way for him to deal with his past. Why not get your book club involved in a little creative exercise of your own? Grab some canvases, paints, and brushes (or even watercolors if you’re feeling laid-back) and host an art night inspired by the book.

Have everyone paint a piece that represents something from the novel—whether it’s a specific scene, character, or theme. Afterward, share your creations with the group and explain what inspired them. Who knows? You might even discover something new about the book or each other while you create!

A Scavenger Hunt

Monta Clare, the town at the heart of All the Colors of the Dark, is filled with secrets, twists, and hidden truths. Why not bring that mystery vibe to your book club with a scavenger hunt? Create a series of clues based on events, symbols, and characters from the novel.

For example, “Find something that represents Patch’s search for Grace” or “Locate an item that represents Saint’s evolving sense of responsibility.” You could even hide little props around your meeting space or homes. As your group solves the clues, take the time to discuss what each moment meant to you and how it reflects the characters’ journeys.

Character Deep-Dive

The characters in this book are complicated, with deep layers and secrets that make them feel real and raw. Why not do a deep-dive into the psychological and emotional makeup of your favorite (or least favorite) character? As a fun twist, before the meeting, have everyone come prepared with a “character profile” based on their own interpretations. Use these questions to guide your profiles:

What would they do if they could change their past?
Once everyone shares, discuss how the characters’ flaws and desires drive the plot forward. It’ll definitely spark some insightful debates on who the real protagonist is—and who the real antagonist is too!

What motivates this character?

What do they fear the most?

The Music Behind the Story

The time period of All the Colors of the Dark spans the 70s and 80s, so why not take a musical trip down memory lane? Create a playlist of songs from that era that could have been the soundtrack to the novel.

Have each book club member pick a song that resonates with them from the book—whether it’s a character’s personal journey or a pivotal moment in the plot. Then, share why you chose it. Does the music match the mood of the book? How do the lyrics connect to the themes or characters? This will get your group thinking creatively about the novel in a totally fresh way!

All the Colors of the Dark Book Club Food Ideas

Now, let’s get to the fun part—what to serve at your book club while discussing All the Colors of the Dark. Since the novel has a bit of a gritty, small-town vibe, I’d suggest going for some comfort food with a twist. Here are a few ideas:

1. Classic American BBQ – Think pulled pork sandwiches, coleslaw, and baked beans. The kind of food that feels like home but is a bit messy (just like the plot of this book).
2. Dark Chocolate Cake – For that dark, mysterious vibe! This book has some deep, emotional layers, and this rich dessert is the perfect match.
3. Mini Chicken Pot Pies – Warm, comforting, and a bit nostalgic. Perfect for the intimate, homey feel of Monta Clare.
4. Drinks – For an extra touch of drama, serve up some dark cocktails like a classic Old Fashioned or a Whiskey Sour. Or keep it non-alcoholic with a fizzy blackcurrant soda!

Quotes From All the Colors of the Dark

The following quotes from the book would each make a great talking point as part of a book club discussion. Be sure to bring any quotes you highlighted along the way as well.

“Later that day the cops would crawl over the intricacies of his life and discover he was into
pirates because he had been born with only one eye, and his mother peddled the romance of a
cutlass and eye patch because often for kids like him the flair of fiction dulled a reality too
severe.”
(Part 1, Chapter 1, Page 3)

“Ivy Macauley wore a smart dress cut low on her chest like she wanted to show the world
they were decent but did not own the right clothes for the occasion.”
(Part 1, Chapter 12, Page 25)

“‘How come you can do so much?’ Saint said, as her grandmother fetched a block plane to
smooth a wavelet. ‘You ever ask that question to your grandfather when he was alive?’ Saint
shook her head. Norma went on.”
(Part 1, Chapter 14, Page 30)

“The North Carolina Coastal Plain. The sandhills. No one knows for sure why they do it. But
it’s real purple. It glows. It’s like proof, Patch. There’s magical things out there just waiting on
you.”
(Part 1, Chapter 24, Page 58)

“‘It strengthens your faith, now that you have your friend back,’ Norma said. Saint looked
up at her. ‘God started the fire. And now he wants the credit for putting it out.’”
(Part 3, Chapter 53, Page 125)

“Most nights he studied till late, surprised by his own limitations. He had made good
grades at school. He had never questioned his own future, his abilities, his faith in himself and
in the fact that everything would be just fine.”
(Part 5, Chapter 115, Page 290)

Popular Highlights

At ten years old he realized that people were born whole, and that the bad things peeled layers from the person you once were, thinning compassion and empathy and the ability to construct a future. At thirteen he knew those layers could sometimes be rebuilt when people loved you. When you loved.

Saint wanted to ask what it was like, to lose the thing that defined you. But perhaps she knew: it left you someone else. A stranger you had no choice but to tolerate, and see each day and feel and fear.

“I just wanted to show you that sometimes things survive despite the harshest of odds.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Get a Printable Version of the Book Club Guide?

Yes! We have a printable version, just scroll down below.

Is There a Tell Me Everything Audiobook?

Yes, there is an audiobook version of All the Colors of the Dark.

Narrated by: Edoardo Ballerini

Released: June 25, 2024

Listening length: 14 hours and 37 minutes

Language: English

Most people praise the characters as richly developed and describe the complexity of the novel as hauntingly captivating, descriptive, and epic. They say the story is heartbreaking and reveals the intricacies of human emotions.

What’s This Book About in a Nutshell?

• A missing person mystery, a serial killer thriller, a love story, a unique twist on each, Chris Whitaker has written a novel about what lurks in the shadows of obsession and the blinding light of hope.

Is There a All the Colors of the Dark Movie?

Ah, the burning question! As of now, there isn’t a movie adaptation of All the Colors of the Dark. But given how cinematic Chris Whitaker’s writing is, filled with tension, vivid settings, and gripping characters, I wouldn’t be surprised if Hollywood or a streaming service comes calling in the near future. There’s definitely potential for this to hit the big screen (or the small screen for that matter)—imagine those atmospheric, suspense-filled moments translated into a visual experience! Until then, though, you’ll just have to imagine it in your head… and trust me, it’s a wild ride.

Is All the Colors of the Dark a Good Book Club Pick?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a book club pick that will spark deep conversations, All the Colors of the Dark is a perfect choice. It’s rich with complex characters, moral dilemmas, and thought-provoking themes like family, redemption, and the impact of trauma. Plus, the novel has plenty of twists and mysteries to keep everyone on their toes and talking long after you’ve finished reading. Whether you’re unpacking Patch’s redemption arc, discussing the emotional weight of the characters’ journeys, or dissecting the dark, atmospheric setting of Monta Clare, there’s so much to talk about! It’s the kind of book that invites debate and different perspectives, making it an engaging choice for any book club.

Are There Other Books by Chris Whitaker?

Yes, and if you loved All the Colors of the Dark, you’re in for a treat! Chris Whitaker has a few other brilliant novels up his sleeve. Here’s a quick rundown:

We Begin at the End – A slow-burn thriller with a deep emotional core. This one has been creating waves and was even named Book of the Month by Waterstones. It’s all about crime, redemption, and the haunting aftermath of a tragedy.

Tall Oaks – His debut novel, which won the CWA John Creasey New Blood Dagger. It’s a compelling mystery set in a small town, brimming with twists and turns.

Is All the Colors of the Dark a Standalone Novel?

Yes, All the Colors of the Dark is a standalone novel. While Whitaker has other books (like We Begin at the End), this one tells a complete story within its pages. There’s no cliffhanger or unanswered questions—everything is wrapped up by the end. However, if you enjoy his writing, you’ll definitely want to explore his other novels, as they all share that signature mix of mystery, emotional depth, and suspense.

How Long is All the Colors of the Dark?

All the Colors of the Dark is a hefty read at 608 pages, but don’t let that intimidate you! The story moves at such a gripping pace that you’ll find yourself breezing through it despite its length. It’s a rich, layered novel with a deep emotional core and complex characters, so you’ll likely be completely immersed in the world Whitaker has created. Whether you’re reading it in a few sittings or spreading it out over a week, the length only adds to the depth of the experience. Happy reading!

Books Like All the Colors of the Dark

James by Percival Everett

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A brilliant, action-packed reimagining of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, both harrowing and darkly humorous, told from the enslaved Jim’s point of view.

When the enslaved Jim overhears that he is about to be sold to a man in New Orleans, separated from his wife and daughter forever, he decides to hide on nearby Jackson Island until he can formulate a plan. Meanwhile, Huck Finn has faked his own death to escape his violent father, recently returned to town. As all readers of American literature know, thus begins the dangerous and transcendent journey by raft down the Mississippi River toward the elusive and too-often-unreliable promise of the Free States and beyond.

While many narrative set pieces of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn remain in place (floods and storms, stumbling across both unexpected death and unexpected treasure in the myriad stopping points along the river’s banks, encountering the scam artists posing as the Duke and Dauphin…), Jim’s agency, intelligence and compassion are shown in a radically new light.

Brimming with the electrifying humor and lacerating observations that have made Everett a “literary icon” (Oprah Daily), and one of the most decorated writers of our lifetime, James is destined to be a cornerstone of twenty-first century American literature.

The Wedding People by Alison Espach

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A propulsive and uncommonly wise novel about one unexpected wedding guest and the surprising people who help her start anew.

It’s a beautiful day in Newport, Rhode Island, when Phoebe Stone arrives at the grand Cornwall Inn wearing a green dress and gold heels, not a bag in sight, alone. She’s immediately mistaken by everyone in the lobby for one of the wedding people, but she’s actually the only guest at the Cornwall who isn’t here for the big event.

Phoebe is here because she’s dreamed of coming for years―she hoped to shuck oysters and take sunset sails with her husband, only now she’s here without him, at rock bottom, and determined to have one last decadent splurge on herself. Meanwhile, the bride has accounted for every detail and every possible disaster the weekend might yield except for, well, Phoebe and Phoebe’s plan―which makes it that much more surprising when the two women can’t stop confiding in each other.

In turns absurdly funny and devastatingly tender, Alison Espach’s The Wedding People is ultimately an incredibly nuanced and resonant look at the winding paths we can take to places we never imagined―and the chance encounters it sometimes takes to reroute us.

Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout

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From Pulitzer Prize–winning author Elizabeth Strout comes a “stunner” (People) of a novel about new friendships, old loves, and the very human desire to leave a mark on the world.

It’s autumn in Maine, and the town lawyer Bob Burgess has become enmeshed in an unfolding murder investigation, defending a lonely, isolated man accused of killing his mother. He has also fallen into a deep and abiding friendship with the acclaimed writer Lucy Barton, who lives down the road in a house by the sea with her ex-husband, William.

Together, Lucy and Bob go on walks and talk about their lives, their fears and regrets, and what might have been. Lucy, meanwhile, is finally introduced to the iconic Olive Kitteridge, now living in a retirement community on the edge of town. They spend afternoons together in Olive’s apartment, telling each other stories. Stories about people they have known—“unrecorded lives,” Olive calls them—reanimating them, and, in the process, imbuing their lives with meaning.

All the Colors of the Dark Review

I Loved This Book – Entirely and Absolutely!

I’m still a little emotional after finishing All the Colors of the Dark. It all started with me crying at the hairdresser’s (yes, really) and ended with me crying in bed, late into the evening. If you’re looking for a book that digs deep into your soul, this is it. It’s one of those rare reads that truly touches you in ways you didn’t know were possible.

I’ve seen a few reviews mention that the beginning is a slow burn, but trust me, I was hooked from the first few pages. For me, those early chapters aren’t just filler; they lay the most beautiful, intricate foundation for a story that is intense, overwhelming, and mesmerizing (all in the best way possible).

As this was my first Chris Whitaker book, I was worried it might not have the murder/mystery vibes I usually crave. But let me tell you – in the background of all the emotional depth and rich character relationships, there’s a serial killer lurking, subtly shifting the course of this small town’s life. It’s a perfect balance of tension and heartache.

If I could describe this book, I’d say it’s like fine wine – something to savor, not rush through. Take your time with it. Let the relationships unfold slowly over the pages, allowing the gravity of each moment to sink in. All the Colors of the Dark is best absorbed slowly, giving you the time to reflect on the lifetime of emotions and connections it spans.

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Happy reading! ❤️