In the novel FROM ABOVE by J.D. Wynne–which explores dysfunctional family dynamics, plus other untoward events, including potential abuse from clergy–Paddy is the abusive, alcoholic patriarch of the Murphey clan. Some of Paddy’s offspring manage to get away, at least physically, just as soon as they are old enough. Others get left behind. None reach adulthood emotionally unscathed. Such is the long rambling tale of the Murphey siblings. There is Johnny, who escapes into the military, more than ready to leave behind the father who punched him at their mother’s funeral; Fionna, who flees into the arms of an Italian boy from the neighborhood market; Midge and young Rory.

The story is dialog heavy, while simultaneously a bit too light in terms of full-fledged story development. Character emotions are more told than shown, even during intense scenes which would be better served being fully seen and felt, as opposed to summarized. This lack of adequate development may leave readers frustrated, and wondering why so many of the individuals populating this world rarely get to the point of learning how to effectively stand up for themselves. The virginity of female characters, for instance, is often lost in distasteful ways, with continued ill-treatment by boyfriends who are suffered for far too long. Midge’s high school beau ejaculates all over her face and fancy dress in the parking lot during prom, for example, ruining the occasion she’s been looking forward to most of her life. Yet Midge stays with the boy after this humiliating episode, not role-modeling anything helpful that young adults today, who are just learning to be in romantic relationships themselves, might emulate.

Structurally speaking, an authentically satisfying climax, conclusion, and resolution are absent. Further, novels in the genre of ‘New Adult Romance/Sexuality’ are most valuable if they can provide–alongside cautionary tales–some plausible, engaging signposts towards how human relationships might empower young people, rather than predominantly emphasizing associations that continually tear down any healthy sense of self, as many characters in this story too consistently allow.

Potentially powerful with a somewhat rough execution, the novel FROM ABOVE by J.D. Wynne explores how certain people live in a reality where loved ones often offer perpetual disappointment, mistreatment, and abuse.

~C.S. Holmes for IndieReader