In Defence Of The Act

Epoque Press is one of my favourite book publishers so I am always thrilled when they offer my an opportunity to review one of their new titles. I haven't had a bad book from Epoque yet and In Defence Of The Act is undoubtedly of of the most powerful novels I have ever read. It's subject matter is dark though, being centered on suicide, so if that is likely to be triggering to you, then please don't buy this book or, indeed, even continue reading this review.

In Defence Of The Act's narrator, Jess, is one of the most intriguing fictional characters I have spent time with. As a scientist drawn to research the phenomenon of suicides for socially beneficial reasons in the natural world, she has a far more nuanced view of this subject than it is generally acceptable to have in modern Western society. As the novel progresses, we understand more about the personal reasons which underlie Jess's interest in such a taboo subject. I could empathise with several aspects of her family dynamic which I think helped me to give Jess time to explore her own ideas and experiences within this story.

It did feel uncomfortable, initially, to be in the company of someone who doesn't immediately decry suicide as a 'terrible thing'. I think this is what I appreciated most about Effie Black's writing however. Through Jess, she is unafraid to step beyond that deeply conditioned response to the subject. In Defence Of The Act is such a powerful and emotional read. On finishing, I found myself simply wanting to sit quietly for a while, unpacking the myriad emotions and ideas about which I had just read. I don't think I will have the emotional stamina to re-read this book again any time soon either. I am still, a week after finishing, mulling it all over and revisiting my own reactions to the work. It certainly isn't an easy read, but is absolutely worthwhile.