Book Review: Palm Meridian by Grace Flahive
When I first heard about Palm Meridian, Grace Flahive’s debut novel, I was instantly drawn in by the premise—a retirement resort in Florida, exclusively for queer women, set in 2067. It sounded like a vibrant tapestry woven with full-bodied characters, wild celebrations, and a dash of bittersweet reflection. What I didn’t anticipate was how deeply Flahive’s heartfelt narrative would resonate with me, prompting me to reflect on life, love, and aging in a completely new light.
The novel unfolds over a single day, the day before our main character, Hannah, opts for euthanasia after being diagnosed with terminal cancer. It’s a daring choice that sets the stage for a whirlwind of emotions and celebrations. Instead of wallowing in sorrow, Hannah decides to throw a party for the entire Palm Meridian community, inviting not just her closest friends but everyone, because, as she believes, living vibrantly includes celebrating one last ride.
Hannah’s character feels like a warm hug—someone deeply relatable whose struggles with mortality evoke both laughter and introspection. Flashbacks pepper the narrative, allowing us to journey through the highs and lows of her life. From love affairs to broken friendships, these glimpses into her past enhance our connection to her present dilemma. I was especially touched by her longing to reconnect with Sophie, a pivotal figure in her life, whose absence creates an undercurrent of anxiety that persists throughout the party.
Flahive’s writing style, with its tender prose and moments of levity, beautifully balances the weight of the story. The author captures the essence of this unique community with a sense of camaraderie that is joyful and inspiring. Their nightly escapades at Frankie’s, the bar within the resort, offer a humorous yet poignant representation of a life fully lived. I could almost see the colorful drinks clinking together in celebration, amidst the backdrop of a Florida that is both enchanting and dystopian, with the world outside crumbling under climate change.
Although Palm Meridian is a short novel, I found myself craving more exploration of the characters and the world beyond the resort’s walls. While Flahive skillfully avoids a heavy-handed global commentary, I couldn’t help but wonder about the outside calamities that made Grandma Florida so enticing yet precarious. It provided a bit of a disconnect, as I yearned for a broader perspective that mirrored the intimate focus on Hannah.
That said, this was not enough to overshadow the joy I felt immersing myself in the party atmosphere. The warmth and love that emanated from the pages were infectious, and it left me pondering what my own future will look like. Will I have the same kind of vibrant community? Will I too celebrate my life at that age, amidst friends who value joy as much as I do? Perhaps my initial discomfort arose from the deeply personal reflections Hannah’s story sparked within me.
In conclusion, Palm Meridian is a gem that deserves a spot on your reading list. If you’re intrigued by themes of community, love, and the acceptance of life’s inevitable end, this book is for you. Grace Flahive has crafted a world that balances the lightness of celebration with the heaviness of reflection, making us reflect on our own lives and connections. I’m excited to see what Flahive does next—she’s certainly an author to watch!
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