Published by Simon Pulse
The world of literature usually mirrors the new trends and fashions, but there will always be places for the classic supernatural thriller and the timeless romance. For this reason, a book that is able to seamlessly combine both of these genres is instantly shaping up like a must-read, and Scott Westerfield’s Afterworlds is not far off the mark.
The novel is, in effect, two novels – the narrative alternates each chapter while remaining not-too-subtly linked. The first of these is the story of Darcy Patel, an 18 year-old who wrote a book in a month and got a publishing deal in two weeks. The enticing tale charts her journey as she, much to her parents’ horror, defers from college to live in New York, where she is to finish her book under the guidance of fellow writers, both veteran and novice. Not only that, but she is to fall deeply in love, adding to her plethora of new experiences.
The other half of the novel is narrated by Lizzie, Darcy’s ‘protag’ from ‘Afterworlds’: a dark supernatural thriller woven into a paranormal romance. After a merciless terrorist attack, Lizzie is left somewhere between the living and the dead, known to its occupants as the afterworld. She abruptly finds herself thrown into a world of fear, exposed to deathly secrets with only her new love, the alluring Yamaraj, to guide her.
However, in this concept lies my main qualm with the book. Whilst these two storylines take up exactly half the novel each, it is clear that Darcy’s narrative is far more captivating than her own character’s, and this makes for a slightly uncomfortable read. All aspects of Darcy’s world totally immersed me, particularly her relationship, which was portrayed heartwarmingly yet totally convincingly, whereas Lizzie’s relationship felt comparatively shallow and superficial – it was clear that the two plots were written to parallel each other, but this comparison felt distinctly one-sided.
However, this in no way stopped the book from being enjoyable, and overall, it was a thoroughly captivating read. If you are a fan of supernatural thrillers or timeless romances, this one’s for you.
Review by Will Triggs, Yr 10, Norton Knatchbull School