Safer by Sean DoolittleMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Sean Doolittle is, for me, a new author, but if this piece is indicative of his work, I foresee a long relationship in our future.
Safer is set in stereotypic suburbia, where all the neighbors know one another, where one’s personal business is suddenly EVERYONE’S business, and where safety is a dangerous illusion.
When Paul and Sara relocate from Boston to Clark Falls, Iowa for Sara’s job, their initial impressions are positive...unless, of course, you count the intruder who broke in and attempted to sexually assault Sara the first night in their new home. Not exactly the Welcome Wagon they had anticipated. The immediate neighbors, however, rally around the couple, led by Roger, a retired police officer. Roger’s past is fraught with horror, as his son was brutally murdered, after which his wife took her own life. In response, Roger has made it his mission to ensure the safety of those around him—at whatever cost necessary. Paul tries to make the best of the neighborly relationship, though it isn’t long before he begins to question Roger’s motives. As Paul pushes back, his own life begins to unravel at the seams. How much is coincidence? How far will Roger go to maintain the sanctity of his inner circle? And how far will Paul go to keep from drowning in Roger’s wake? Secrets, lies and betrayal all have starring roles, and the curtain of suburban bliss is pulled back to reveal what lies at the heart of Clark Falls.
There are many positive aspects of this novel, not the least of which is the superb dialogue. It is gritty and wholly believable, used sparingly for effect, and incredibly insightful. In addition to the brilliant conversation, Doolittle utilizes a plethora of literary references. From Bronte to Nabokov, the allusions are rich and varied, allowing for a sense of intimacy between the reader and the characters.
The only seeming hiccup in this novel was one of racial stereotypes. From the socioeconomic commentary that supported the geography of prejudice, to the use of a black man as the “villain”, this treatment of race was at once distasteful and unnecessary. Whilst it may be my own heightened sensitivity to contemporary racism that caused such a negative reaction, it is still worth mentioning.
All in all, and in spite of the negative mentioned, this is a must-read novel that will make the reader wonder exactly what is going on behind their own neighbor’s closed doors. Definitely recommended.
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