I received an Advance Reader copy of this book from NetGalley and Penguin Random House International. Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House International.
Title: The Comet Seekers
Author: Helen Sedgwick
Publisher: Penguin Random House International
Published: 25 August 2016
“There’s a comet predicted, she says. It’s going to be very bright.”
– The Comet Seekers
Sedgwick’s debut novel is a slow born, mesmerizing the reader best in the silent hours between dusk and dawn, when the world is finally slowing down.
The book follows Róisín and François while creating a net embracing their past, present, and future.
Róisín is the daughter of an astronomer, joining the science team to observe the fracturing of a comet in Antarctica. Francois is the base’s chef and soon they fall in love with each other, not knowing that their connection goes back further.
The most interesting part about the story is how Sedgwick switches back and forth through time to show the connections of the two main characters and the families to each other, which she beautifully crafted. In general, Segwick’s writing style is an outstanding feature of the novel because it is just so fitting and well-written. Sometimes the story is a bit dark with all the regrets/ past events, and the mixture of science and the supernatural (ghosts of the past) make this story appear surreal for some parts, which I did not like so much.
But all in all, the story is a pleasant read. Just take your time, find a quiet place to sit and delve into the fascinating world of Róisín and François.
Rating: 4/5
