Life Without Me by Anna Legat, published by Accent Press, May 2015

Magic realism with humour and depth

“Great debut novel; intriguing storyline, humour, attention to detail and a bit of raunchiness too!

Funny, fast paced and original romp through a very different kind of family life. I love Anna Legat’s writing – it’s gritty, acerbic at times and peppered with laugh out loud moments. This book is totally unsentimental, and sometimes too close to home for comfort, but very entertaining all the same.

Life Without Me offers great escapism.

It’s a well written story and observation on modern family life. A clever idea written in a style that keeps you on the page.

This is a fast paced, punchy and gripping novel with no holds barred.” Amazon customers

“The characters are extremely well developed and the story flows smoothly. There is just the right amount of personal angst and tension throughout the book.” Dianne Klein

“A brilliantly written and unflinching story of a family falling apart, written from the unique point of view of a woman whose very existence is hanging in the balance between life and death. An enormously enjoyable and accomplished debut novel.” Grace Lowrie, author of Kindred Hearts.

“Life Without Me takes the reader on a keyhole-peeping ride. The writing is excellent, acerbic and funny. The reactions of the people around Georgie are told through her eyes as she watches from that limbo-land where souls go before they disappear into the afterlife. This is my favourite genre because the “magic” elements throw light on the human condition in ways that realism cannot. I found it easy to go with the scenario and enjoyed the ways Legat played with it. There are reminiscences of The Lovely Bones here, but with a much lighter story to tell. This is an engaging read with multiple storylines coming together to reveal an intricate plot, in both meanings of the word. Although this is a cautionary tale, Legat doesn’t preach. Life Without Me is told with both humour and depth. And just as you’re wondering how it’s going to end, Legat plays with the “magic” to treat the reader to a couple of final twists.” Virginia King, Goodreads.