Description
Skade Felsdottir has been tormented by a dark secret for twelve years. Now, she is confronting her demons and trying to keep it together… maybe. Skade has made a name for herself as a skilled photographer and is back in her hometown, working on a photo essay book about descansos, roadside memorials for loved ones who have passed away. During her research, she uncovers more than just the memorials and must confront her troubled past before it gets the best of her.
Struggling with addiction, unhealthy relationships, and mental health issues, Skade’s future (and present) seems uncertain. She forms an unusual relationship with Kit, a shy construction worker and self-taught puppet master, all while trying to avoid her narcissistic ex-boyfriend who has conflicting ideas of their relationship. Surprises await her at every turn, and she must remain vigilant to outlast her demons.
American Still Life is a story about forgiveness, healing from trauma, and finding joy in unexpected moments. While the main crisis in the story may be situationally unfamiliar to many readers, it captures attention and motivates readers to seek and pray for closure. Skade represents those who may appear happy on the outside but are unknowingly struggling on the inside, unfortunately hidden from many. Naremore’s writing is descriptive and poignant, making for a beautiful and compelling read. American Still Life will be added to many TBR lists for consecutive reads. Readers will enjoy (as I did) learning about the art, history, and meaning of descansos and the personalization of memorials.
I feel privileged to have read Skade’s story from start to finish, with the joys and sorrows in between. While I usually avoid prolonged conflict in stories (as in real life), the balance of negativity portrayed is well-executed and strays from causing the reader unnecessary turmoil. The story gradually builds up to a climactic ending that will leave readers stunned. The chapters are concise, providing maximum information and enjoyment in a few pages that pique the readers’ interest and investment.
I noticed parallels between American Still Life and Gillian Flynn’s Sharp Objects: both stories and authors grasp at the heart, don’t miss, squeeze, and don’t let go until the end, and even then is questionable as the story lives for a while afterward. American Still Life is rated M for mature due to language, violence, sexual content, and self-harm/suicide. The comprehension level for both intellectual and emotional elements would be high school level and above.