I'm finding The Buried Life hard to review. I'm trying to do this outstanding novel justice. But where to start? I haven't stopped thinking about the characters since I finished the book a few days ago.
Kezi 28, rejected by her parents is living a life of regret, caught between her strict religious upbringing and living a life as her true self.
"..knowing that between God and the church and your family everything was taken care of, she would never experience any of that again. And the comfort, the belonging, the protection, the certainty, the love, the sanctuary: she missed it and she resented missing it, and she fought its enduring claims." - page 23
Adrian 43, is a scholar, an expert on death. His studies have stalled and his long-term relationship has ended. Adrian feels adrift, it's only his friendship with the vibrant and energetic Kezi that keeps him afloat.
"Weary of Irene, weary of the journey, and most especially weary of himself...... The surrounding countryside wore that tousled appearance of autumn, an in-between fatigue that lacked the energy to tidy itself up, and entirely in keeping with his own mood." - page 39
Laura 57, a successful town planner meets Adrian by chance in a cheese shop. Their easy banter and long conversations have Laura questioning where she stands in her marriage but can't imagine a life without her husband.
"..she had absorbed his beliefs, she had willingly embraced all that comprised Tony Sheldrick's world, and she was wanting, still, to excuse him, wanting the man and the only life she knew not to collapse. What was wrong with her? What flaws in her could allow this to happen?" - page 232
I loved how Goldsmith gives each character their own distinct voice. Adrian and Kezi, neighbours, have a lighthearted and supportive friendship. Kezi was Adrian's closest friend despite their age gap. He loved her authenticity.
Laura and Adrian's friendship starts when they are both at a low point. Laura is realising her perfect marriage is riddled with cracks.
Goldsmith's prose are lyrical and mesmerizing, rich in poetry and music. The Buried Life is a story of life and death, how life's circumstances affect us deeply and true friendships help to awaken and heal buried hurts.
Viscerally described scenes, polished prose and the power of music to both heighten and soothe emotions play an important role in this powerful novel of awakening.
My rating 5 / 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Publisher: Transit Lounge Publishing
Publication date: 1st March 2025
Genre: Literary Fiction
Pages: 328
RRP: AU$34.99 (trade paperback)
Source: Courtesy of the publisher via Quikmark Media
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