The Alternatives, Caoilinn Hughes
“The narrative shifts from prose to play, offering readers an immersive glimpse into the chaotic and complex relationships between the Flattery siblings.”
The Alternatives is a witty, intelligent, and impassioned novel by Irish writer Caoilinn Hughes. The novel introduces us to the Flattery sisters – Olwen, Rhona, Maeve, and Nell, each of them with impressive careers and their own unique perspectives on life. Olwen, the eldest, becomes increasingly consumed by a horrifying awareness of the earth’s future and abruptly vanishes from her home. Driven by a mixture of love and concern, Rhona, Maeve, and Nell set out on a mission to find her, and their journey brings them together in the Irish countryside for the first time in years – forcing them to confront their pasts and the uncertain future that lies ahead.
At the heart of the novel is a brilliant crescendo that unfolds as the sisters reunite under one roof. The narrative shifts from prose to play, offering readers an immersive glimpse into the chaotic and complex relationships between the Flattery siblings. The stage directions and dialogue create a palpable sense of tension and urgency, as the sisters grapple with the weight of the climate crisis and their own personal struggles.
Hughes's writing is not only profoundly intelligent, but also imbued with a sharp wit and humour. She cleverly manages to engage the reader, despite the inclusion of some complex philosophical ideas. I could easily have become lost amongst their PHDs and existential angst, but instead, the fiery Flattery sisters continued to draw me in. I adored each of them in equal measure and would happily have read a whole book about any one of them.
Despite Olwen's initial desire for solitude, Hughes deftly demonstrates the importance of friendship and sisterhood, with a real sense of community and human connection beautifully evoked throughout the book.
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