Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite

What Then? by Paraic Loftus begins with Coote, who is preoccupied with cleaning his pistol while wrestling with the disappearance of his friend Rex, a journalist entangled in controversial reporting. As Coote works through his routine in a drought-stricken town, he becomes increasingly concerned about the oppressive atmosphere surrounding his friends, particularly Vim, an activist facing threats from authorities for his outspoken views. Coote's reflections on the past and his relationships with Vim and Mar, who are involved in a secret organization, show us the dangers they all face. This escalates as Vim becomes more paranoid about being monitored, leading to a fateful confrontation with a coercive figure. As everything breaks down, Coote and Mar have to consider their responsibilities in a politically charged environment, culminating in a violent event that can shatter lives and lead to the consequences of resistance.

What Then? by Paraic Loftus does well in creating textured atmospheric detail and emotional depth, shining a light on themes of societal neglect and its very personal impact. I thought the stark imagery of a drought-stricken landscape juxtaposed with the pollution of a harbor set a brilliantly ominous tone for a story where feelings of isolation and fear in the face of political oppression are so prevalent that they are almost visible. Loftus makes this visible with near-cinematic depictions. Readers are invited to consider issues of memory and trauma through developed characters, like the lens of Corm and Mar as they buck against the specters of their past. Initially, the shifts in point of view were confusing, but once I found my groove it was smooth sailing. The dialogue is sharp, providing authentic views into relationships and the community, and a balance is struck between moments of thought and the urgency of activism. Overall, this is a book that packs a big punch for its size. Recommended.