Review of Lotus by Jennifer Hartmann
When I picked up Lotus, I was already familiar with Jennifer Hartmann’s powerful storytelling from her previous work, Still Beating, which had left quite an impression on me. So, as I journeyed from Trondheim to Bodø—a stretch I’ve traversed many times with its breathtaking landscapes—I found myself captivated by this new tale. I planned to take a nap during the ride, but Oliver’s story beckoned me so fiercely that I couldn’t resist plunging into its depths. Just as Bodø’s beauty never fails to astonish me, Lotus proved itself to be an equally breathtaking experience, enriching my heart and soul in ways I hadn’t anticipated.
Lotus is a friends-to-lovers romance that tackles some heavy themes like resilience, love, and the struggle to embrace existence after trauma. Oliver, having escaped a nightmarish captivity lasting 22 years, re-enters a world that seems foreign and daunting. Meanwhile, Sydney grapples with her own past while trying to support her long-lost best friend. Their journey together is fraught with emotional turbulence and deep self-discovery—a dynamic that had me both rooted to my seat and on the edge of it. The synergy between the characters is palpable and heartfelt; their connection evolves beautifully, like the blooming of a lotus flower in murky waters.
Hartmann’s use of language struck a chord with me. Her prose is immersive and evocative, which kept me hooked throughout the narrative. The pacing is impeccable, allowing for moments of tension interspersed with tranquility, akin to the ebb and flow of the tides at Saltstraumen. I often found myself losing track of time, wrapped in Oliver and Sydney’s world, and the impact of Hartmann’s storytelling left me sleep-deprived yet immensely satisfied.
The quotes scattered throughout the book resonated with me deeply. One that stood out, “We’re a fucked-up, complicated species prone to self-sabotage, baseless insecurities, and the notion that there’s always something better around the corner,” captured the essence of human vulnerability. It’s something we all grapple with, and Hartmann does a remarkable job showcasing it within the framework of a tender love story.
Highlighting just a few lines from this work feels almost sacrilegious given the richness of the narrative, but I have to mention: “I love her, so entirely, so painfully … She is my favorite part of me.” This quote encapsulates the profound depth of love Oliver feels for Sydney, and it stirred something deep within me, reminding me of the transformative power of love.
However, it’s essential to mention that Lotus does contain trigger warnings, particularly regarding sexual assault, handled with the sensitivity and care it necessitates. It’s a stark reminder of the characters’ struggles and the complex intertwining of love and pain.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Lotus to anyone drawn to stories rich in emotional complexity—especially those who enjoy friends-to-lovers narratives that incorporate elements of dark romantic suspense. Hartmann has crafted more than just a love story; she’s offered us a lens through which we can reflect on human emotions, bravery, and the beauty of love transcending obstacles. I walked away from this book feeling inspired, uplifted, and eager to share it with others—the mark of a truly impactful read. If you’re in the mood for a story that challenges the norms and celebrates resilience, Lotus is your next must-read.