A review by franalibi
A Room Called Earth by Madeleine Ryan

emotional hopeful informative inspiring lighthearted mysterious reflective relaxing sad fast-paced

• Strong character development? N/A
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

5.0

It’s the first time in ages that I’m actively noting down my review as I read a book. And I felt I needed to do this with A Room Called Earth.

Who knew a whole 24 hours recounted of a young woman getting ready for a party on Christmas Eve-Eve would be written in such a way that i would consume this book in under 24 hours...

As she gets ready, it feels like you’re getting ready with her as you see her rituals, products, her thoughts and self awareness. She is spiritually in tune with herself and the world - where the author (through the character) highlights on issues in Australia and the protagonist’s past life events.

During the novel, floral scents and imagery links to female sexuality, as well an exploration as what society expects a woman to present herself as and be submissive to the patriarchy and power of man. Which in itself is something the protagonist basically says is b******.  Anecdotes are shared to give light to her observations at the party and lessons to the reader. She welcomes self love and oh how I want to feel the same way...

The progression of this novel was seamless and the more she opened up to other characters, the more you learnt about her feelings and life. It was a bittersweet ending and I feel privileged to be able to have read such a stunning debut of a novel.