Shantel Davis’s Broken Clocks is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the arduous journey of self-recovery. The novel centers around Eshe, a woman who finds herself entangled in the complexities of love that she knew would ultimately lead to heartbreak. Davis crafts a narrative that is both raw and deeply emotional, inviting readers to delve into the tumultuous world of a woman grappling with the aftermath of a love that was as consuming as it was destructive.

From the outset, the book’s blurb sets the tone for what readers can expect—a story that does not shy away from the messy, often unglamorous aspects of grief. Eshe’s journey is not one of quiet introspection but rather a loud, visceral experience filled with “sad songs, banana pudding, and one-sided phone calls.” This vivid imagery immediately immerses the reader in Eshe’s world, making her pain palpable and her struggle relatable.

One of the most compelling aspects of Broken Clocks is its character development. Eshe is a multifaceted protagonist whose emotional depth is both her strength and her vulnerability. Davis does an exceptional job of portraying Eshe’s internal conflict—her desire to move forward juxtaposed with her inability to let go of the past. This duality is a testament to Davis’s skill in creating characters that are not only believable but also deeply human.

Eshe’s relationship with the man who broke her is central to the narrative. It is a relationship marked by passion and pain, illustrating the often-blurred lines between love and self-destruction. Davis captures the essence of a love that is both intoxicating and toxic, a theme that resonates with anyone who has ever loved recklessly. The man’s repeated pleas for patience add another layer of complexity, highlighting the cyclical nature of their relationship and Eshe’s struggle to break free from it.

The theme of grief is intricately woven throughout the novel. Davis portrays grief not as a linear process but as a chaotic, unpredictable force that manifests in various forms. Eshe’s grief is “loud, ugly,” and unapologetically real, challenging the often-romanticized portrayal of heartbreak in literature. This honest depiction of grief is one of the novel’s greatest strengths, offering readers a refreshing perspective on the process of healing.

In terms of narrative style, Davis employs a voice-driven approach that is both engaging and intimate. The use of first-person narration allows readers to experience Eshe’s emotions firsthand, creating a sense of immediacy and connection. Davis’s writing is both lyrical and raw, capturing the beauty and brutality of Eshe’s journey with equal measure. The inclusion of elements such as “banana pudding” and “one-sided phone calls” adds a touch of authenticity, grounding the narrative in everyday experiences that many readers will find familiar.

Comparatively, Broken Clocks shares thematic similarities with works like Normal People by Sally Rooney and The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo. Like Rooney, Davis explores the complexities of relationships and the impact of past loves on present lives. Similarly, Santopolo’s exploration of love and loss echoes through Davis’s narrative, though Davis’s portrayal is arguably more raw and unfiltered.

While Broken Clocks is a standalone novel, it is worth noting that it follows Session 33, which may provide additional context for readers familiar with Davis’s work. However, the novel stands strong on its own, offering a complete and satisfying narrative that does not rely on prior knowledge of Davis’s other works.

Overall, Broken Clocks is a powerful exploration of the human heart’s capacity for love and resilience. Shantel Davis has crafted a story that is both heartbreaking and hopeful, a testament to the strength it takes to rebuild oneself after being broken. The novel’s impact lies in its ability to resonate with readers on a deeply personal level, offering a mirror to those who have loved and lost, and a reminder that healing, though messy, is possible.

For readers seeking a novel that delves into the intricacies of love and the journey of self-discovery, Broken Clocks is a must-read. It is a story that will linger long after the final page, a testament to Davis’s ability to capture the essence of the human experience in all its beautiful complexity.