A surprisingly powerful story that resonates with the reader.
Feature image credit: Pantera Press
From the get-go, I knew there was something special about Together We Fall Apart, the debut novel from Sophie Matthiesson.
Different from other books of its genre, it is powerful, moving, and a page turner. This story introduces us to Clare, a young woman who has been living in London for the past seven years working as a lawyer. A family crisis brings Clare back home to Melbourne. Being faced with her past makes her reflect on why she decided to leave. For one thing, she was forever in the shadow of her big brother Max and his long history with drug abuse, and was overcome with frustration at her parents for not making him get clean. Then there’s Miriam, the beautiful photographer, whose exciting life in London offered her the escape she had been longing for … So why doesn’t she want to go back?
Each chapter jumps between present day and the past. It’s an interesting way of strengthening the plot by providing a glimpse into the back story that has led to Clare’s current state of restlessness and discontent. While it can sometimes get confusing when the author jumps back and forth like this, Matthiesson has captured this style beautifully through her controlled writing and detailed character descriptions.
This book is about the complex relationships we have with family, lovers, and most importantly, ourselves. Its raw honesty resonates with the reader on a personal level and I’m sure everyone can relate to one aspect or another of this story.
After reading the author’s bio, I wonder how much inspiration for this book has come from her own life? Either way, Sophie Matthiesson is a fresh new voice in Australian fiction and certainly one to watch.
This one will stick with me for years to come.
Reviewed by Karlie Naulty
The views expressed in this review belong to the author and not Glam Adelaide, its affiliates, or employees.
Distributed by: Pantera Press
Released: July 2024
RRP: $32.99
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