Review: “Cenotaphs”
This book came to me via a book club. I chose it because I was in the mood for a relatively short read, and the plot sounded intriguing.
The Premise
A chance encounter leads to an odd relationship between an old man and a middle-aged woman. In each other, they find something beyond romance — a connection that transcends the realities of their lives. They help each other to overcome loss and find a new kind of love that goes deeper than sex and romantic love: family, belonging, peace.
The Pros & Cons
This was truly a unique novel, and beautifully done. Told in alternating parts by Ben, a retiree with a reputation as a sage advisor to troubled souls; and Sam, a middle-aged woman working in finance, the tale slowly unravels to reveal an unusual relationship between two kindred spirits.
I loved the way their pasts are uncovered layer by layer as we learn who they each were before they came to know each other. There were truly shocking moments as the reader grapples to combine the character we’ve grown to admire, with the violence buried in his past; similarly, Sam’s tragic experience felt jarring to her here-and-now exuberant personality.
The prose is excellent and takes you on a journey through unbearable loss and the power of redemption. There is a lyrical sense to the writing, and also a tinge of magic realism amidst the words.
My only slight con was that I felt there were a few contrived or confusing moments, such as Sam’s behaviour to make Ben jealous, and also the discussion between Sam and Ben’s friends was very detailed and felt out of place among the rest of the book for me personally.
Conclusion
I enjoyed this book, though I admit its style may not be for everyone. Overall, it feels like a novel that can be dissected and explored for literary purposes, as there were clearly many deeper, profound meanings despite the simplicity of the story. There was also a plethora of themes covered within this short book, giving an overall enriching experience as you wind down to the last page. I would recommend to readers who want something deep and moving that will stay with you.
