elliecarr97's Reviews (368)

Ali Smith’s Autumn is a beautifully written exploration of time, memory, and human connection. Often described as the first post-Brexit novel, it’s far more than a political commentary—it’s a symphony of memories, weaving together personal and collective histories to remind us of the fragile threads that tie lives together.

Smith masterfully captures how forgotten experiences shape the present, emphasizing the ephemeral nature of memory. Through the poignant relationship between Elisabeth and Daniel, the novel meditates on the idea that once a person is gone, their unshared memories vanish with them. It’s a haunting reflection: eventually, all of us will be forgotten.

Although the season of autumn isn’t mentioned constantly, its essence is deeply felt throughout the novel—in both its themes and its writing. Like autumn itself, the book is reflective, melancholic, and imbued with a sense of transition, decay, and quiet beauty.

The narrative also interrogates aging, deftly revealing how a brilliant past can fade into the margins when one is old, overshadowed by societal disregard. Yet, Smith offers hope in her portrayal of the bonds between people—connections that transcend time and history.

Autumn is a thought-provoking, tenderly crafted novel that lingers long after the last page, reminding readers of the fleeting, yet profound, beauty of life.

I’ve quickly become obsessed with The Shepard King series—these books are definitely a new favourite. Gothic, mysterious, and utterly gripping, they’re the first books to make me this hooked in months.

The writing style perfectly balances poetic elegance with an eerie undertone that fits the dark, magical world Gillig has created. The magic system, centered around cards, is incredibly unique and one of the most inventive I’ve come across. It’s intricately tied to the plot, adding layers of depth and intrigue that make the story even more captivating.

What I especially appreciated was the series’ brevity—just two books. It’s clear the author had the entire story mapped out before writing, allowing the plot and characters to feel meticulously thought through and fully developed. There’s no unnecessary filler or drawn-out arcs; every detail feels intentional and impactful.