Post-Traumatic: Utterly compelling literary fiction about survival, hope and second chances

Vivian is a complex heroine in Chantal V. Johnson's debut novel, Post-Traumatic, who is blazingly, indelibly alive. She is self-aware and lost, cutting and wounded, resilient and vulnerable, and struggles with the memories and after-effects of her bad childhood. After a family reunion, she finds herself alone and starts to unravel. The book is a new kind of survivor narrative that brims with warmth, laughter, and hope.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 04 May 2023
Publisher: Dialogue

Vivian is a captivating character in contemporary fiction, exhibiting a profound self-awareness and a sense of being lost while simultaneously displaying resilience and vulnerability. These multifaceted traits combine to create a fully realized human being, reflecting the complexities and intricacies of the human experience.

Reading "Post-Traumatic" is an exhilarating experience that feels somewhat illicit. Dawnie Walton, the author of "The Final Revival of Opal & Nev," has crafted a story that delves into the aftermath of trauma and explores the resilience of the human spirit.

On the surface, Vivian appears to be a success story. She is a dedicated lawyer who advocates for mentally ill patients at a psychiatric hospital, showcasing her commitment to social justice and her ability to make a positive impact on the lives of others. However, beneath her outward appearance, Vivian carries the weight of her past and the challenges she faces as a Black, Latinx woman living in a predominantly white society.

She lives in a constant state of hypervigilant awareness, making even the simplest of activities a thrilling and anxiety-inducing experience. The memories of her troubled childhood and the ongoing pressures of societal expectations weigh heavily on her, leaving her feeling fragmented and unsure of her place in the world.

For years, Vivian has relied on a combination of dating, dieting, dark humor, and smoking weed with her best friend, Jane, as a means of coping with her struggles. However, after a family reunion prompts Vivian to take a bold step, she finds herself alone in new and terrifying ways, without Jane to confide in. As she starts to unravel, Vivian must confront the demons of her past and find a way to repair what matters most to her.

"Post-Traumatic" is a remarkable debut from a stunning talent. It presents a new kind of survivor narrative, featuring a complex heroine who is vividly and indelibly alive. Readers who have enjoyed books such as "Open Water," "A Little Life," or "Luster" will find much to appreciate in this razor-sharp book about the aftermath of trauma.

What sets "Post-Traumatic" apart is its ability to balance warmth, laughter, and hope with the darker themes of trauma and recovery. Walton masterfully weaves together a tapestry of characters, each with their own unique struggles and vulnerabilities, creating a rich and immersive narrative. The writing is vivid and evocative, drawing the reader into Vivian's world and immersing them in her emotional journey.

The characters in "Post-Traumatic" are well-developed and relatable, with their flaws and imperfections adding depth to their personalities. Vivian, in particular, is a captivating protagonist who undergoes a remarkable transformation throughout the story. She is self-aware, determined, and fiercely loyal to those she cares about. However, her past trauma and the ongoing pressures of her social identity have left her with deep scars that threaten to consume her.

Jane, Vivian's best friend, is a supporting character who plays a crucial role in her journey of healing. Jane is a source of comfort and stability, but she also struggles with her own demons and insecurities. Their friendship is tested as Vivian confronts the truth about her past and the challenges she faces in the present.

Other characters in "Post-Traumatic" include Vivian's parents, who have their own complicated relationship with their daughter and the trauma she has experienced. Vivian's romantic interests, both past and present, also contribute to her journey of self-discovery and healing.

The themes explored in "Post-Traumatic" are universal and deeply relevant to contemporary society. The book addresses issues of trauma, resilience, identity, and the complexities of interpersonal relationships. It sheds light on the ways in which trauma can shape a person's life and the challenges they face in navigating the aftermath of such experiences.

Through Vivian's journey, "Post-Traumatic" offers a message of hope and healing. It demonstrates that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to find strength, resilience, and a sense of purpose. The book encourages readers to embrace their vulnerabilities, seek support, and work towards healing and growth.

In conclusion, "Post-Traumatic" is a remarkable debut novel that offers a fresh and compelling perspective on the aftermath of trauma. Dawnie Walton's writing is vivid, evocative, and deeply relatable, drawing the reader into Vivian's world and immersing them in her emotional journey. The book's themes are universal and deeply relevant to contemporary society, offering a message of hope and healing. "Post-Traumatic" is a must-read for anyone who appreciates well-crafted storytelling and wants to explore the complexities of the human experience.

Weight: 252g
Dimension: 196 x 127 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780349702469