Assessment:
Plot/Idea: Hallberg starts with a strong plot hook, exploring the complexities of growing older by fusing the lives of two people who have nothing in common on the surface. Subplots throughout the novel don't quite measure up to the main storyline, but readers will be intrigued by Letty Mae's travails.
Prose: Letty's voice is swift and succinct, delivered in compact, crisp sentences. Other sections of the novel come across as more fluid, but Hallberg capably uses those contrasting styles to portray different perspectives.
Originality: The main premise of Hallberg's novel—two people discovering unexpected solace with each other in the midst of hard times—has been done before, but there is a deeper meaning behind this narrative that probes life's more subtle paradoxes.
Character/Execution: Letty is a relatable protagonist, though her character lacks depth aside from her dissatisfaction with her marriage. Drucker is interesting, an enigmatic character who has moments where he is decidedly unlikable, but Hallberg later provides background to his story that will help readers better understand his development.
Date Submitted: June 24, 2024
“I freaking adore this book. I love the story and there are so many subtle details throughout that lend incredible depth, whether to a single moment, a scene, or the story as a whole.
Even the smallest things, like her headache easing a bit just from tossing her pantyhose—you don’t even realize what that truly meant in the moment, not until later…
There are some truly beautiful realizations about life, death, love, and mortality that I think are really going to resonate with readers. His loss is tragic, but necessary, and he meets such a beautiful end.
This is a novel that I highly recommend reading more than once. Returning to it a second—or even third—time, there is just so much to discover. And it sticks with you, long after you’ve put it down.”
October 2, 2024|10 Top Books of the Year, 2022-Present, 5_Stars, All Reviews, F/20th Century (1901-2000), F/Drama/Literary/Storytellers, F/Woman/Women/Chick Lit
Genre: F/Literary Fiction/Women
5 Stars
Caryl Hallberg writes an interesting dramatic tale with A Brush With Mortality
In A Brush With Mortality, the reader is introduced to Letty Mae, and the setting is the turn of the century, entering the 21st century. I haven't read anything by this author before, and what a hidden gem. If you don't remember the turn of the century, you may be familiar with the scare of Y2K, but that is not the biggest concern of Letty. This is Letty's journey, and she is trying to find herself, and figure out who she is now. I can relate; however, my new self, became apparent at age 40, and then again, 50. Some days, you are constantly searching for the purpose to get out of bed. I like Letty, and I could definitely relate to her and what she was going through. Yes, when you hit a certain age, you try to figure out who you are now. You also have to figure out how to be a parent to a grown adult, it's something that can be a battle. Letty and her journey hits all the notes of rediscovering herself. Caryl Hallberg not only tells the story but shows it with words as well. A reader can get lost in the story. This story is a timeless tale and a very unpredictable story, my favorite kind! This is definitely an unforgettable read, and it's heart filling, and can be heartbreaking. A Brush With Mortality is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book also write a review.
“If you like a dark twisty book with sexuality and LGBQTIA this book is for you.”
"Wow" That is all I have to say..."
