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A review by criticalgayze
Chrysalis by Anna Metcalfe
challenging
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Dedication. Return on investment. What should we give to others, and are we owed something in return? These are the concepts that sat with me while I read this novel that may have snuck its way into my top ten of the year.
This is the story of three people’s experience with the titular metamorphosis of a woman post-assault. As she begins her journey toward healing, she becomes self-satisfied, which is seen both as alluring and off putting. As she transforms, she receives from others without returning, which is seen as the tribute of the narrators until it is not. All the narrators experience the pride of the savior and the jilt of the lover, often cyclically. And slowly they watch as their idol and tormentor encourages this behavior in her growing online following.
So what are we allowed to take from others? And are we obligated to return the favor, especially when it is given without request?
This is the story of three people’s experience with the titular metamorphosis of a woman post-assault. As she begins her journey toward healing, she becomes self-satisfied, which is seen both as alluring and off putting. As she transforms, she receives from others without returning, which is seen as the tribute of the narrators until it is not. All the narrators experience the pride of the savior and the jilt of the lover, often cyclically. And slowly they watch as their idol and tormentor encourages this behavior in her growing online following.
So what are we allowed to take from others? And are we obligated to return the favor, especially when it is given without request?