A review by milliemark
Ripe by Sarah Rose Etter

dark emotional reflective sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

An all-consuming read about the trappings of the corporate world, that paints modern capitalist society in a dystopian light and really delves into how the pressures and expectations of jobs can take their toll on our mental health. 
Set in Silicon Valley the story follows Cassie in her day to day life working at a start-up and how the stresses of her work life, the rising costs of where she lives and the horrific disparity between the wealthy and the poor in her city are slowly consuming her. 
The imagery of 'the black hole' as a metaphor for Cassie's anxieties and depression - that frequently swell, threatening to consume her - was a clever addition to narrative. Etter's writing is beautifully melancholic and sharp, and is really what made this book shine for me. 
I do really recommend this book and I was totally gripped by it when I was reading - but I would say it's for everyone, and has a heavy theme of depression worth noting if you're thinking about picking this up!
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