Edward Underhill’s debut adult novel, “The In-Between Bookstore,” weaves a captivating tale that masterfully blends magical realism with a deeply personal journey of self-discovery. Following his success with young adult novels “Always the Almost” and “This Day Changes Everything,” Underhill demonstrates his growth as an author by tackling complex themes of identity, belonging, and the weight of choices with remarkable sensitivity and insight.
The Story
The novel follows Darby, a recently unemployed trans man approaching his thirtieth birthday, as he returns to his hometown of Oak Falls, Illinois to help his mother move. What begins as a temporary retreat from his life in New York City transforms into an extraordinary journey when he discovers that the local bookstore where he once worked as a teenager has become a portal to 2009. There, he encounters his pre-transition teenage self and faces the possibility of changing both their futures.
Strengths
Authentic Character Development
Underhill excels at crafting authentic characters who feel remarkably real. Darby’s struggle with identity and belonging resonates deeply, whether he’s navigating the cramped streets of New York or the wide-open spaces of Oak Falls. The author particularly shines in depicting the complex relationship between present-day Darby and his teenage self, capturing both the tenderness and tension of that unique dynamic.
Time Travel with Purpose
Unlike many time travel narratives that get bogged down in paradoxes and rules, Underhill uses the concept as a vehicle for emotional exploration rather than a plot device to be solved. The mechanics of how the bookstore enables time travel remain deliberately ambiguous, allowing readers to focus on the meaningful interactions and revelations that occur within its walls.
Small Town Representation
The portrayal of Oak Falls is nuanced and avoiding stereotypes. Rather than painting small-town life as uniformly oppressive or idyllic, Underhill shows how communities can simultaneously be sources of both comfort and constraint. The evolution of the town between 2009 and the present day feels organic and well-observed.
Writing Style
Underhill’s prose is clear and engaging, with moments of quiet beauty that never feel forced. His dialogue rings true, capturing the awkwardness of reunions and the tentative dance of reconnection. The alternating scenes between past and present are handled deftly, maintaining narrative momentum while allowing for meaningful character development.
Thematic Depth
The Nature of Identity
At its core, the novel explores how identity is shaped by both choice and circumstance. Darby’s journey isn’t simply about being trans – it’s about understanding how all the pieces of who we are fit together, and how we choose which pieces to keep as we grow.
The Complexity of Belonging
The story thoughtfully examines what it means to belong – to a place, to a community, to ourselves. Through Darby’s experiences in both New York and Oak Falls, Underhill suggests that belonging isn’t always about finding the perfect fit, but about choosing where and with whom we want to make space for ourselves.
Areas for Improvement
While the novel is generally well-crafted, there are a few areas where it could be stronger:
- The pacing in the middle section occasionally feels repetitive, with similar conversations happening multiple times between different characters
- Some secondary character arcs, particularly those of Darby’s New York friends, feel underdeveloped
- The resolution of certain plot threads happens rather abruptly in the final chapters
Target Audience
This book will particularly resonate with:
- Readers interested in LGBTQ+ fiction with elements of magical realism
- Anyone who has grappled with questions of identity and belonging
- Fans of character-driven narratives that blend the ordinary with the extraordinary
- Readers who enjoy stories about small towns and the complexities of coming home
Similar Works
Readers who enjoy “The In-Between Bookstore” might also appreciate:
- “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig
- “Everyone in This Room Will Someday Be Dead” by Emily Austin
- “Light From Uncommon Stars” by Ryka Aoki
Final Verdict
“The In-Between Bookstore” is a thoughtful and moving exploration of identity, choice, and the paths we take in life. While it may have some minor flaws, the emotional authenticity and careful handling of complex themes make it a worthwhile read. Underhill has created something special: a story that acknowledges the pain of not belonging while celebrating the courage it takes to choose where and how we make our home.
Points of Excellence:
- Nuanced exploration of identity and belonging
- Well-crafted character relationships
- Sensitive handling of LGBTQ+ themes
- Effective use of magical realism
Areas for Growth:
- Pacing issues in middle sections
- Some underdeveloped secondary characters
- Occasionally rushed resolution
This novel marks Underhill as an author to watch in adult fiction, building on his success in YA to create a mature, nuanced work that will resonate with readers long after they turn the final page.
Impact and Significance
“The In-Between Bookstore” makes a valuable contribution to contemporary LGBTQ+ literature by offering a story that, while centered on a trans character, explores universal themes of belonging and self-discovery. Underhill’s decision to set the story in a small Midwestern town also helps fill an important gap in queer literature, which often focuses on urban experiences.
The novel’s exploration of time travel as a metaphor for examining our past choices and their impact on our present selves is particularly effective. It raises important questions about regret, growth, and the nature of change without offering easy answers.
This is a book that will likely find a dedicated audience among readers who appreciate character-driven stories that blend reality with a touch of magic, while tackling serious themes with both sensitivity and hope.