Many thanks to NetGalley, William Morrow and Harper Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of this wonderful novel by Nikki Erlick, with the audiobook narrated by a fabulous cast. All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!
The Poppy Fields is a place of hope for battered hearts to heal. In the CA desert, it's an experimental and controversial treatment center that allows those devastated by grief to sleep through the pain for a prolonged period of time. But there are some side effects. Four different strangers and a dog find themselves on a journey to the Poppy Fields for different reasons.
What a concept to ponder - in the woes of staggering grief, would we take the chance of alleviating some of that pain and waking up feeling healed and hopeful? I really liked the way this book focused on these 4 different individuals, letting us in on their private grief paths and stories. While a speculative fiction book, it felt real because all of us have experienced grief, and everyone processes loss in such vastly different ways. Just as she did with her wonderful debut novel, The Measure, the author explores experiences and feelings that are very personal yet universal. I alternated reading and listening to the audiobook, but the narration cast is spectacular and I felt more immersed in the story listening to individual voices. Both are highly recommended - just like The Measure, this would be a great book club pick.
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