Review of 'Among Other Things' by Olivia Simons
Review of 'Among Other Things' by Olivia Simons
Publication Date: March 14th, 2023
For info on the novel and the author: Righteous PR
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REVIEW
‘Grief isn’t beautiful, so why should I try to be?’
This line by twin Marlene Ellis really sums up the heart of this novel. It is a story steeped in remorse, loss and regrets. It displays the many deaths that can occur in a person’s life and in some cases in a short span. Death of a parent, death of a relationship, death of a child (through miscarriage) and even death of hopes and dreams. And none of this paints a pretty picture— for grief is intense sadness that includes shock, numbness, denial and anger. Among Other Things shows these emotions quite well through its two main characters, twin sisters, Marlene and Grace.
But with all the realistic sadness seen in this novel, Among Other Things is not just about a series of gloom and doom twists and turns of life. With the lows, come some pretty special highs that bring change, resurrection and healing: much of which starts with the loss of an only parent. Death is a leveller. It draws a person from the shadows into the light and yes can plunge one into darkness, too. But that’s the starting point, not the finish line. These twin sisters have different reactions to their mother’s passing, for they have lived different lives.
Among Other Things is more focused on Marlene as it is told from her point of view. She is the prodigal daughter. Whereas Grace is the one who stayed home, close to her mother, did all the right things and lived the best life. Marlene is the rebel who lost a mother she never really knew. The mother she took for granted, blamed, mistreated and disrespected. She is the one filled with an added grief, because now it is too late to make amends for her bad behaviour. How will she move forward when she cannot receive atonement for her past sins? And when she discovers, through a letter left among her mother’s things, why she never revealed the identity of her father, Marlene understands how much her mother loved and protected her from the ugly truth. She wishes she could turn back the clock and fix the things she has broken—particularly her relationships. But although she cannot pour out her heart to her mother now and receive forgiveness, she still has a sister—and her sibling connection becomes even more precious and must be protected, restored and nurtured into wholeness. Thankfully Grace has a kind heart and will take positive steps towards her undeserving sister. And Marlene will learn to support Grace who is not only dealing with the loss of their mother, too, but also infertility and marital issues.
This novel begins with the words ‘You’re pregnant.’ For some women that is good news but for others—a shocking and unwelcomed revelation. For Marlene it is the worst words she could ever hear as the father of her child is unavailable. When she consults him, his solution is brutal. She is shaken and realises this forbidden relationship must end. This action will come in an unexpected way. While sitting in a clinic, her phone rings. It’s her sister with bad news. In a heartbeat, she gathers her belongings, says goodbye to Rose her landlady and leaves the city. Although her mother’s death is the catalyst that breaks the destructive cycle she has been trapped in, it brings her home to her roots. Being away for ten years means much has changed. But she is determined to restore her relationship with her twin sister. Their reunion is difficult but she tries to make amends while assisting with the funeral arrangements. Many memories are passed between them that ultimately draw them closer. I felt the whole process was quite moving and sincere and the author delivers the scenes and emotions well.
Among Other Things is told in first person with Marlene being the speaker. She is a well layered character and even though she has massive flaws and made some terrible mistakes, I feel a lot of what happened to her was a result of a lack of communication with her mother. Marlene’s anger and rebellion towards those closest to her, fuelled some bad decisions. Whenever she compared herself to her twin sister, she fell short, too. If her mother had told her the truth of her father, would it have changed or prevented all the tragedy that followed? Maybe.
The novel clearly shows how twin relationships can be difficult ones. Sometimes their personalities are polar opposites. The mistake some people make is expecting twins to be the same—especially if they look alike. Often they feel they have to compete. This heavy burden of false ideals creates unwanted friction and a sense of unworthiness. This can happen between any siblings, of course, but possibly twins feel it more.
Rose is another important person in this story. She is not only Marlene’s landlady but also a mother figure in her life. We get the backstory of how this woman found Marlene, took her in, after she left her mother and sister and moved to the city. It was a nice touch to see Rose reappear at critical life moments to offer much needed support.
I have to say Among Other Things surprised me in many ways. The theme and weight of grief it portrays could be overwhelming for some but I felt it was addressed sensitively and effectively. Marlene does change from the start and even Grace has little measures of growth, so in the end this is not merely a prose elegy of sorrow and melancholy but also a celebration of maturity and joy. For out of serious reflection – life resurrects from lamentations. And healing and wholeness are the outcome. 5 Stars for a great debut. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Julia @righteouspr.com.au and author Olivia Simons for my review copy.
About the Author:
Author, Olivia Simons, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in creative writing and went on to develop her debut novel, Among Other Things. She spends her time between work as a copywriter and searching through hidden bookshops. If you can’t find her, she’s probably at home reading.
