Is This Love?

This is a book about the untidy, complicated underbelly of love and love's end. It is funny, true, wise, and utterly authentic, and will recognize yourself over and over. It is a deeply unsettling, but unputdownable account of a marriage unravelling, narrated by J in the days, weeks, and months after the marriage collapses. It is an addictive, deeply unsettling, and provocative novel of deception and betrayal, and passion turned to pain.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 04 August 2022
Publisher: Profile Books Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate and messy realm of love, exploring its complexities and ultimate demise. With a blend of humor, authenticity, and wisdom, it resonated deeply with me, reminding me of aspects of my own life.

Written from the perspective of J, who is left bewildered and heartbroken after their spouse's unexpected departure, the story unfolds in a series of diary entries from the departed wife, adding another layer of ambiguity and intrigue.

What initially appears to be a straightforward divorce case soon reveals itself to be a complex tapestry of deception and betrayal. J questions everything they thought they knew about their spouse, their love, and their relationship. As the story progresses, each character's version of events undermines the others, challenging our assumptions about victimhood, agency, love, and control.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this novel is the gender ambiguity of J. Throughout the story, the reader is left to wonder whether J is a man or a woman, and this uncertainty adds an extra layer of complexity to the narrative. It forces us to reevaluate our preconceptions and biases about gender roles and relationships.

"Is This Love?" is a thought-provoking and deeply unsettling exploration of the intricacies of love and the consequences of deceit. It challenges our perceptions of what it means to be a victim, an agent, and a lover. The writing is masterful, with vivid descriptions and compelling characters that keep the reader engaged from start to finish.

This book has left a lasting impression on me, and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys exploring the darker corners of the human psyche and the complexities of relationships. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of literature to shed light on the human experience.

Weight: 340g
Dimension: 218 x 138 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800810280
Edition number: Main