Afterwards: heart-breaking, emotional and truly uplifting

This is the story of loss and what happens afterwards. Emma finds herself unravelling and close to breaking point, but could her salvation lie in the sea? AFTERWARDS is a thought-provoking and powerful debut with a message of hope at its heart.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 13 April 2023
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd

This captivating novel delves into the realm of loss and its profound aftermath. As Emma returns home after a long day at work, she eagerly calls out to her husband, Jay, as is their daily routine. However, to her surprise, Jay is absent, leaving behind only his camera, which holds five photographs unlike his usual work. Determined to unravel the mystery behind these images, Emma embarks on a journey that takes her to the picturesque coastal town of Cornwall. Along the way, she rekindles old relationships and forms new ones, as she delves deeper into the enigmatic nature of the photographs. As Emma unravels the secrets of each picture, she finds herself on a perilous emotional journey, teetering on the edge of breakdown. However, in a surprising turn of events, she discovers solace in the sea, a small community of swimmers, and the unexpected promise of something she never thought she wanted.

"Afterwards" is a beautifully written debut novel that explores the complexities of grief and the resilience of the human spirit. Author Debbie Johnson has crafted a story that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant, leaving a lasting impression on readers.

The novel opens with Emma's return home after a long day at work. She eagerly calls out to her husband, Jay, expecting to hear his familiar voice. However, the kitchen is empty, and Jay is nowhere to be found. Emma's heart sinks as she realizes that something is amiss. She finds Jay's camera on the kitchen table, containing five photographs that differ from his usual style. Intrigued, Emma decides to follow the images and embark on a journey that takes her to Cornwall.

As Emma travels through the picturesque coastal town, she reconnects with old friends and family members. She also meets new people, including a group of swimmers who have a unique connection to the sea. Through their stories and experiences, Emma begins to understand the power of the ocean and the healing potential it holds.

The photographs that Jay left behind become increasingly mysterious as Emma delves deeper into their meaning. Each picture depicts a different scene or person, but they all share a common theme: loss and its aftermath. Emma struggles to understand the connection between the photographs and Jay's absence, but as she unravels the secrets, she realizes that the photographs are a way for Jay to communicate with her from beyond the grave.

Through her journey, Emma learns to confront her grief and accept the loss of her husband. She also discovers the importance of living in the present and finding joy in the simplest of things. The novel's message of hope and resilience is powerful and uplifting, reminding readers that even in the darkest of times, there is always the possibility of finding light and finding a way to move forward.

"Afterwards" is a beautifully written debut novel that will resonate with anyone who has experienced loss or is navigating the challenges of life. Author Debbie Johnson has created a character in Emma that is relatable and empathetic, and her prose is elegant and evocative. The novel's message of hope and healing is a testament to the power of the human spirit and the resilience of the human heart.

Weight: 320g
Dimension: 130 x 199 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398509153