The Afterlives

Thomas Pierce

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The Afterlives by Thomas Pierce is a novel that delves into the themes of life, death, and the afterlife through the eyes of the protagonist, Jim Byrd. After a near-death experience, Jim becomes hyper-aware of mortality and embarks on a journey with his wife, Annie, to search for answers about what comes next. The novel weaves together elements of speculative fiction, metaphysics, and love, exploring the existential dread of mortality and the quest for meaning beyond life.

Pierce's writing style in The Afterlives is described as smart, funny, and imaginative, with a focus on the profound aspects of the novel, particularly regarding what happens after death. The narrative skillfully navigates between the mundane activities of daily life and the metaphysical questions surrounding existence, offering a thought-provoking exploration of life, death, and the unknown realms beyond.

Characters:

Characters are flawed yet relatable, highlighting experiences of love, loss, and existential inquiry.

Writing/Prose:

The writing displays a blend of wisdom and humor, with thoughtful prose that tackles deep themes but sometimes meanders.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative delves into profound themes of death and existence using a unique contraption, intertwining multiple character stories and a non-traditional narrative structure.

Setting:

The story unfolds in a near-future setting that evokes real-life issues about mortality and the afterlife.

Pacing:

Pacing varies considerably, with some sections dragged out by interludes while the emotional conclusion stands out.

Notes:

The protagonist, Jim Byrd, has a near-death experience at 33.

Jim is a financial analyst who explores the concept of life after death.

The Reunion Machine offers a unique twist on Judgment Day, allowing exploration of the spirit world.

The book introduces 'daisy particles', reflecting themes in quantum theory.

It explores concepts of multiple universes and the nature of existence.

Pierce forbids the typical tragic love story, allowing Jim and Annie to have a more grounded relationship.

Some subplots about past characters, like Robert and Clara, felt unnecessary to some readers.

The narrative switches between first and third person perspectives.

The book stimulates deep reflection on mortality and existence.

It combines elements of Southern Gothic with American romanticism and humor.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of mortality, death, and existential dread.

Has Romance?

The central romance between Jim and Annie provides emotional depth and focuses on their relationship amidst themes of life and death.

From The Publisher:

"Ridiculously good" ( The New York Times ) author Thomas Pierce's debut novel is a funny, poignant love story that answers the question: What happens after we die? (Lots of stuff, it turns out).

Jim Byrd died. Technically. For a few minutes. The diagnosis: heart attack at age thirty. Revived with no memory of any tunnels, lights, or angels, Jim wonders what-if anything-awaits us on the other side.

Then a ghost shows up. Maybe. Jim and his new wife, Annie, find themselves tangling with holograms, psychics, messages from the beyond, and a machine that connects the living and the dead. As Jim and Annie journey through history and fumble through faith, they confront the specter of loss that looms for anyone who dares to fall in love. Funny, fiercely original, and gracefully moving, The Afterlives will haunt you. In a good way.

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