Thank you to NetGalley and Algonquin for the eARC!

Bronwyn Fischer’s debut novel, "The Adult," plunges readers into the tumultuous world of Natalie, a freshman navigating the uncertainties of college life. From the outset, Fischer’s prose captivates with its lyrical quality, painting vivid images of Natalie’s internal struggles and the new, intimidating environment she finds herself in. However, despite its beautiful prose, the novel's stream-of-consciousness style and certain plot elements may not appeal to all readers.

Natalie’s journey begins with a sense of dislocation and aimlessness, encapsulated in her late arrival to her first lecture and her subsequent wandering around campus. Her encounter with Nora in the park, while attempting to compose a nature poem, serves as a catalyst for the story. Nora, with her enigmatic presence, draws Natalie into a complex web of emotions and dependency. This relationship becomes the central focus of the novel, highlighting the intricate and often troubling dynamics of power and consent.

The secondary characters, Clara and Sam, add depth to Natalie’s college experience. Clara, her dorm neighbor, offers a semblance of normalcy and friendship, while Sam’s misogynistic advances add tension and highlight the broader societal issues Natalie faces. These interactions emphasize Natalie’s desperation to find her place and impress those around her, a theme that resonates with many young adults.

One of the novel’s strengths lies in its exploration of queer relationships and the nuances of consent. Fischer delves into the gray areas of these themes with sensitivity and insight, making "The Adult" a thought-provoking read for those interested in the complexities of human connections and personal growth. However, the novel is not without its flaws. The stream-of-consciousness narrative, while beautifully written, can feel slow and meandering, potentially alienating readers who prefer a more structured plot. Additionally, the anticipated plot twist around the 80% mark may seem predictable to some, diminishing its impact. The abrupt time jump from the penultimate chapter to the final one leaves certain plot points unresolved, which might frustrate readers looking for a more satisfying conclusion.

Despite these critiques, Fischer’s prose shines through, particularly in moments of introspection and descriptive passages. Her ability to convey Natalie’s inner world and the ambiance of her surroundings is noteworthy. This poetic style, reminiscent of C Pam Zhang’s evocative yet sparse writing in "How Much of These Hills Is Gold," adds a layer of beauty to the narrative.

Overall, "The Adult" is a commendable debut that, despite its pacing and structural issues, succeeds in portraying the raw, often painful transition from adolescence to adulthood. It is particularly well-suited for readers who appreciate introspective, character-driven narratives and those invested in the exploration of queer identities and relationships.

📖 Recommended For: Readers who enjoy character-driven stories, Fans of lyrical and evocative prose, Admirers of Stream-of-Consciousness Narratives, Those Interested in Complex Queer Relationships and Power Dynamics.

🔑 Key Themes: Power Dynamics and Consent, Queer Relationships, Self-Discovery and Identity, College Life and Transition to Adulthood, Inner Turmoil and Emotional Growth.