Elsewhere is a short novel (in pages) but really packs a punch. There is plenty in this book for the reader to contemplate. There seems to be a theme lately of books that examine motherhood and the role of the mother. Elsewhere is a great addition to that list. The village where the book takes place showcases motherhood as something to be sought after but once the mother becomes a victim of the mysterious "affliction," she is picked apart for flaws and totally removed from the memory of the community, as if she never existed. It is a very interesting concept and I would love to know more backstory regarding the author's inspiration. My only gripe is that I wish the reader was given more details to the cause of the "affliction" and why it only occurs in this particular place but I suppose that's all part of the speculation. Some people may be annoyed by the minimal dialogue but otherwise, the pacing of the novel was perfect.
In sum, I enjoyed reading Elsewhere. I found it to be an impressive follow-up to Saint X and would recommend it.
Thank you to Celadon and BookishFirst for providing my ARC.
In sum, I enjoyed reading Elsewhere. I found it to be an impressive follow-up to Saint X and would recommend it.
Thank you to Celadon and BookishFirst for providing my ARC.