Review of 'The Hush' by Sara Foster
Review of The Hush
What an emotionally gripping and intense post-pandemic novel! Sara Foster has written a brave and exceptional story that reflects so much of our times. Many of the concerns she explores of government control are all too real for many around the world facing such restrictions of movement and mandatory protocols with COVID. The parallels between reality and fiction are quite unnerving. Suspicion and panic have risen in many who feel they are losing human rights and the freedom to make choices.
In The Hush, the laws said to ‘keep everyone safe’ make some question as to whether there are dark plots and ill motives at work. With the intense monitoring of the public through a special watch that must be worn at all times, this tracking of movements by the government fuels apprehension. It appears privacy is gone and there are eyes and ears everywhere. Ironically this widespread fear becomes the new tool of control to keep society in check.
The core of the plot focuses on the disappearance of a number of young pregnant women and a strange occurrence of many stillborn babies that were seemingly healthy during gestation. It also explores women’s rights, especially in the realm of pregnancy, for here in this new order they are severely challenged and freedom of choice is on the chopping block. There are many surprises and twists, mystery and mayhem, plus on the edge-of-your-seat attempt rescues.
I followed with intense interest the interactions between the three generations of women from one family: Lainey, a 17 year old senior student; Emma, her mother a valued midwife and Geraldine the grandmother, a famous feminist spokesperson. Together and apart, they work through the challenges and relationship problems to find beneficial solutions.
As noted, this fast-paced dystopian thriller investigates the effects of government control and the potential for corruption in high places. But we, along with the characters, also try to decipher who are the true guardians of human rights? This conflict leaves the characters (and readers) floating in a wake of questions: who can be trusted with so many secrets abounding and secret organisations that ‘say’ they are the real protectors? Sara builds a steady case of doubt in our minds, leading us carefully up to the very end before disclosing the truth.
I bought this book after reading a friend’s review and knew I would really appreciate its message. Now that I have read it, I can say it cuts frightfully close to the bone with its insight and candour for it mirrors today’s COVID dilemmas.
Brilliant characterisations, professional understanding of the human psyche, master level writing craftsmanship and an original creative plot that keeps you guessing through every bend and brick in the road, makes this a heart-stopping, unforgettable story. The Hush is an intelligent and massively moving novel that will raise discussions for years to come. I highly recommend this 5 Star novel. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
