72 pages • 2 hours read
Severance
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Book Brief
291
Novel • Fiction
New York City • Contemporary
2018
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Published in 2018, Severance is the debut novel by Ling Ma. It follows Candace Chen, a passionless office worker, navigating an apocalypse caused by Shen Fever, a disease that turns its victims into nostalgia-driven zombies. Candace joins a group led by Bob Reamer, surviving while reflecting on themes of capitalism, consumption, and work life. The story interweaves her past and present, exploring her immigrant family's history and her struggle for meaning beyond routine.
Nostalgic
Mysterious
Contemplative
Melancholic
Dark
Reviews & Readership
114,151 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Ling Ma's Severance is lauded for its unique blend of apocalyptic fiction and biting satire. Critics praise its insightful commentary on capitalism and workplace culture, as well as Ma's sharp prose and dark humor. Some reviews note a slow pacing and a disjointed narrative structure as drawbacks. Overall, it's a thought-provoking debut that challenges and engages readers.
Who Should Read Severance?
Readers who enjoy dystopian fiction, social satire, and themes of cultural displacement would relish Severance by Ling Ma. Fans of Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel or The Road by Cormac McCarthy will appreciate its post-apocalyptic narrative mixed with incisive commentary on modern work culture and identity.
114,151 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
291
Novel • Fiction
New York City • Contemporary
2018
Adult
18+ years
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