Book Review: After She Wrote Him by Sulari Gentill

"I can see him so clearly. It’s like he exists, like I’m being allowed to watch.”
“Watch what?”
“His life … his mind …”
Leith laughed , shaking her head. “You think I’m mad?”
“Yes and no. You’re a writer.”

___ Sulari Gentill, After She Wrote Him (Earlier published as Crossing The Lines)

If you're a writer or a reader, you can understand the bond we develop with imaginary characters. In this book, this bond is way too deep.

When I read the blurb of this book on Netgalley, I was skeptical, as it seemed a little complicated. I am a very impatient reader, so I was not sure if I'd be able to handle it. But I decided to read this book, as a writer. And I'm glad.

Reason? Its fascinating plot.

Madeleine is a Lawyer and a crime writer. She is working on her new manuscript that tells the story of Edward. Edward is a literary fiction writer and he's writing about Madeleine, a happily married (or she believes so) woman who is a lawyer and a dedicated crime writer.

So yes, they both are writing each other and they're a little too obsessed about their protagonists. So obsessed that they start to materialize, they converse, begin to fall in love with each other, eventually.

So, who is the actual writer? Who is the protagonist? And who is the killer in Madeleine's crime fiction? Would Edward be able to solve the mystery? And what about Madeleine's married life?

The writing style is very interesting and unique. It's barely noticeable, but sometimes I could even differentiate the writing styles of these two writers (of two different genres).

It's a crime fiction, which is interesting, however predictable (at least I predicted it but it didn't disappoint me as it still kept me interested). But it's a fascinating love story, as well. I found this strange relationship between these two writers/protagonists very endearing. It's like their cozy, exclusive, little space. Their conversations, their understanding, their much needed availability, the emotional connect...I found it 'somehow' relatable.

'He was fascinated by the notion of a story truly told by both the writer and the protagonist. Perhaps this was the partnership that all writers sought, that he had never before completely achieved.'

The story has been told from two points of view, obviously. The points of view shift quite swiftly and frequently and the author has done a brilliant job because the shift is so smooth that it doesn't confuse you.

Was it a complicated read? Initially, yes. I found it a little difficult to adjust to this narrative but you get use to it. It gripped me, in a very intriguing and endearing manner. The characters and their world they have created for each other is so interesting and convincing.

It's different, eccentric, one of a kind. Loved it!


Thank you, Netgalley for the ARC.