Many thanks to NetGalley, Celadon Books and MacMillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the sophomore novel by Alexis Schaitkin, audio narration by Ell Potter - 4.5 stars!
Vera grew up in a remote mountain town with Elsewhere - any place besides their town - just a thought. Their town has an affliction - mothers disappear, never to return. No one ever knows when or whom will vanish - but when they do, the other mothers sweep in to gather and burn any remaining photos, clothing or proof of their existence. Vera's own mother disappeared into the clouds and now that she is a mother, she feels the anxious pull of thought that she could leave her child. Should she leave first?
This is not an easy read; it requires thought, speculation, and introspection. But I loved all the topics it introduced - how we give of ourselves to our families no matter the cost; how mothers are judged by others; what we would do for our children; community and isolation. The narrator's voice was perfect for this book - it was lyrical, otherworldly, and gave life to the beautiful verse. I was a huge fan of Schaitkin's debut novel, Saint X. With her latest, she is definitely a must-read author.
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