Four half-siblings navigate complex relationships and burgeoning sexuality during a summer holiday in France, only to face an unexpected apocalyptic event that challenges their survival and forces them to confront their deepest fears and desires. The novel seamlessly transitions from a coming-of-age drama to a dystopian thriller, exploring themes of family dynamics, identity, and the fragility of human connections in the face of catastrophe.

Reader Review Summary

In Kerry Andrew's captivating new novel, "We Are Together Because," the author masterfully weaves together a tale of complex family dynamics, self-discovery, and the unraveling of the world as we know it. The story follows four half-siblings – Luke, Connor, Thea, and Violet – as they spend their first holiday together in their father's house in the south of France. As they navigate their new relationships and individual struggles, strange and inexplicable events begin to unfold around them, hinting at an impending apocalypse.

Andrew's lyrical prose is a standout feature of the novel, painting vivid and sensory descriptions that transport readers to the lethargic summer days spent by the poolside in France. The characters are well-crafted and distinct, each grappling with their own preoccupations and desires. Luke, the most easy-going of the four, seeks to bring a new shape to their unconventional family. Connor and Thea, born just six months apart, struggle to hide their growing attraction to each other. Violet, the youngest, tries to figure out her identity while dealing with a traumatic event from her past.

The exploration of love, identity, and sexuality is authentic and compelling, offering a tender and honest portrayal of the characters' experiences. Andrew's confident and fluid prose keeps readers engaged, even as the story takes an unexpected turn halfway through the novel.

As the world begins to unravel and the siblings are faced with the challenge of survival, the novel shifts gears, delving into a post-apocalyptic scenario that is both unsettling and thought-provoking. While some readers may find the lack of explanation for the apocalyptic events frustrating, the focus on the characters' experiences and the lyrical writing make for a gripping and emotionally resonant read.

One of the novel's strengths is its ability to seamlessly blend the coming-of-age narrative with dystopian elements, creating a unique and memorable reading experience. The characters' preoccupations and relationships continue to evolve and deepen even as the world around them crumbles, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.

"We Are Together Because" showcases Kerry Andrew's immense talent as a writer, with their ability to craft beautiful, sensory-rich prose and explore complex themes of family, identity, and survival. While the novel may not satisfy readers looking for a traditional dystopian story with clear explanations and resolutions, it offers a powerful and introspective look at the human experience in the face of an unraveling world.

With its compelling characters, lyrical writing, and thought-provoking themes, "We Are Together Because" is a must-read for fans of literary fiction and those who appreciate a fresh take on the dystopian genre. Kerry Andrew has delivered a beautiful and impactful novel that will linger in readers' minds long after the final page is turned.