The Library Suicides by Fflur Dafydd

My Rating - 4 out of 5 stars

Publisher - Hodder

Genre - Fiction
Publishing year - 2023
Language - English
ISBN - 978-1-3997-1110-4
Pages - 310

Book Review - 

The Library Suicides marks my first experience with Fflur Dafydd's work, and I was drawn to it by its intriguing premise—a thrilling story set in a library. As a book enthusiast, the combination of suspense and a literary setting was irresistible, and this novel delivered on multiple fronts.

The plot centres on twin sisters, Ana and Nan, who work in a library and harbour a shared intent for revenge against a man they believe is responsible for their mother's death. While they often appear to act as one entity, the narrative masterfully unveils the differences between the sisters. Their divergent thoughts, emotions, and levels of knowledge about their plan form the crux of the story, weaving an intricate web of tension and mystery.

Set in a small, unnamed country, the novel paints a dystopian world where paper is banned, and bizarre societal policies are in place, such as the exclusion of men from the police force and the literary community. 

These elements lend the book a chilling, speculative tone that prompts readers to reflect on contemporary issues, especially the rise of digital media and the potential decline of physical books. The setting serves as a stark reminder of the possible trajectories our world might take, making the story feel eerily relevant.

The characters are unsettling and complex, each bringing a distinct unease to the narrative. Ana and Nan are compelling protagonists, their layered relationship teetering between unity and secrecy. Supporting characters like Dan, the porter, and Eben, the book reviewer, add further intrigue. 

Eben, in particular, stands out due to his tumultuous relationship with Elena, the twins' late mother. Elena, a celebrated author, had a strained dynamic with Eben, her harshest critic. This subplot examines the profound impact reviews can have on authors—a theme I deeply connected with as both an author and a book reviewer.

The title, The Library Suicides, takes on greater significance as the story progresses. It's not merely about human tragedy but something far more expansive and symbolic, a revelation that enriches the reading experience.

While this contemporary dystopian novel may not cater to everyone's tastes, it is a thought-provoking, unnerving, and daringly original work. If you are willing to step out of your comfort zone and engage with a narrative that challenges conventional storytelling, it is worth your time.

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