"Severance" by Ling Ma is a unique and thought-provoking novel that combines elements of science fiction, satire, and dystopian fiction. The story follows Candace Chen, a young woman working in New York City during a global pandemic that turns people into mindless automatons. As society collapses around her, Candace joins a group of survivors who are trying to navigate the new world.
One of the standout aspects of "Severance" is Ma's writing style, which is sharp and witty, with a dark humor that adds depth to the story. The novel also explores themes of capitalism, consumerism, and the search for meaning in a world that seems to have lost all sense of purpose.
Ma skillfully weaves together Candace's past and present, gradually revealing the events that have shaped her into the person she is today. The character development is rich and complex, and readers will find themselves empathizing with Candace as she struggles to find her place in a world that has been turned upside down.
Overall, "Severance" is a compelling and thought-provoking read that will stay with you long after you've finished it. It's a haunting and timely exploration of what it means to be human in a world that is constantly changing. Highly recommend for fans of literary fiction and dystopian novels.