Negative Spaces
by C.A. O’Brien
Most domestic secrets die with an individual family member, leaving siblings and offspring with questions that will never be answered. Misgivings and doubts plague these generational lineages when truths are buried along with the guarded co-conspirator – unless another knowing participant speaks up.
After being brought up in foster care, Lou finds a make-shift family in her late teens that includes a love interest, a grandmotherly type landlady, and the property-owner’s family. Unexpected connections are revealed during this short-term arrangement, and suspicions arise as it relates to the paternal accuracy of her landlady’s grandchildren and the death of her friend’s father.
As a result of her upbringing, Lou has developed an interesting coping mechanism to help her to assess the true character of those whom she comes in contact with.
Forty years later, Lou has retired to Mexico and a series of events stirs up the past.
Reviews of Negative Spaces:
5.0 out of 5 stars for NEGATIVE SPACES
“Insightful reflections of human relationships. The complexities of love, familial ties and mostly love of self. Written in such an elegant style, carefully chosen words and expressive sentences that captured a moment, an observation or understanding. A beautiful writer.”
“A satisfying read of a well-crafted, full-circle story. Told from two different perspectives, the insightful writing style enriches the personalities of the characters and captures memorable life moments.”
“A great read with complex and enigmatic characters. As the story developed, I found the protagonist lingering with me long after putting the book down. I highly recommend this novel.”
