The Building That Wasn’t: A Journey Through Memory and Mystery
In “The Building That Wasn’t,” Abigail Miles crafts a compelling narrative that intertwines elements of mystery, fantasy, and psychological exploration. The story follows Everly Tertium, a young woman who encounters a mysterious stranger claiming to be her grandfather, leading her on a journey into a surreal world filled with forgotten memories and hidden truths. As Everly navigates the enigmatic building known as the Esheetourological Society, she grapples with her identity, the nature of reality, and the impact of the past on her present. Through vivid storytelling and a richly imagined setting, Miles invites readers to explore the complexities of memory and the search for belonging.
Summary
The novel opens with Everly Tertium, a 24-year-old woman who has recently lost her father. At his funeral, she notices an elderly man in a bowler hat and bow tie who seems to be watching her intently. Although she does not speak to him, she feels an unsettling sense of déjà vu. A few days later, she encounters the man again in a park, where he introduces himself as Richard Benoit and claims to be her maternal grandfather.
Initially skeptical, Everly is drawn to Richard’s enigmatic presence and the promise of uncovering her family’s hidden history. He invites her to visit the Esheetourological Society, a peculiar building that serves as a nexus for the strange and the extraordinary. Intrigued yet apprehensive, Everly agrees to meet him there.
Upon arriving at the Esheetourological Society, Everly is enveloped in a surreal atmosphere filled with oddities and eccentric characters. The building itself seems to possess a life of its own, with rooms that shift and change, evoking a sense of familiarity and strangeness. As she explores the labyrinthine corridors, Everly experiences moments of déjà vu, feeling as though she has been there before, even though she cannot recall the specifics.
As Everly delves deeper into the mysteries of the building, she encounters a cast of characters who each have their own stories and secrets. These interactions force her to confront her own past, including her relationship with her mother, who has always been a source of pain and confusion in her life. Through these encounters, Everly begins to piece together the fragmented memories that have shaped her identity.
The narrative builds tension as Everly uncovers the darker aspects of the Esheetourological Society and the true nature of her grandfather’s intentions. She learns that the building is not merely a place of exploration but a site of experimentation and manipulation, where the boundaries between memory and reality blur. As she grapples with the implications of her discoveries, Everly must confront her fears and ultimately decide what she is willing to sacrifice for the truth.
Main Characters
1. Everly Tertium
The protagonist, Everly, is a complex character navigating the challenges of loss, identity, and the search for belonging. Her journey of self-discovery drives the narrative, as she confronts her past and the impact of her family’s history on her present.
2. Richard Benoit
Richard is the mysterious stranger who claims to be Everly’s grandfather. His enigmatic presence serves as a catalyst for Everly’s journey, guiding her into the world of the Esheetourological Society while harboring secrets of his own.
3. The Residents of the Society
The various inhabitants of the Esheetourological Society each contribute to the exploration of memory and identity. Their unique stories and perspectives provide depth to the narrative, highlighting the complexities of human experience.
4. Everly’s Mother
Though not physically present in the story, Everly’s mother looms large in her memories and emotional struggles. Their complicated relationship serves as a backdrop for Everly’s journey and her quest for understanding.
Key Events and Plot Points
1. The Funeral Encounter
The story begins with Everly’s unsettling encounter with Richard at her father’s funeral, setting the stage for her journey into the unknown.
2. The Invitation to the Society
Richard invites Everly to the Esheetourological Society, marking a turning point in her life as she embarks on a quest for truth and understanding.
3. Exploration of the Building
As Everly explores the Esheetourological Society, she experiences moments of déjà vu and encounters a cast of eccentric characters, each with their own stories and secrets.
4. Uncovering Family Secrets
Everly’s interactions with the residents of the Society lead her to uncover hidden truths about her family and her own identity, forcing her to confront her past.
5. Confrontation with Reality
The climax of the story involves a confrontation between Everly and Richard, where she must grapple with the implications of her discoveries and the nature of her reality.
6. Resolution and Self-Discovery
In the resolution, Everly emerges with a deeper understanding of herself and her family, having confronted her fears and embraced her identity.
Conclusion
“The Building That Wasn’t” by Abigail Miles is a captivating exploration of memory, identity, and the search for belonging. Through Everly’s journey, Miles invites readers to reflect on the complexities of the past and the impact it has on our present selves. The novel’s blend of mystery, fantasy, and psychological depth creates an immersive reading experience that resonates with audiences.
With its richly developed characters, intricate plot, and exploration of profound themes, “The Building That Wasn’t” stands out as a significant contribution to contemporary speculative fiction. Miles’s ability to weave together elements of the surreal with emotional depth creates a powerful narrative that lingers in the reader’s mind long after the final page is turned.
As readers accompany Everly on her quest for truth and understanding, they are left with a sense of hope and the realization that the journey of self-discovery is filled with challenges but ultimately leads to growth and transformation. “The Building That Wasn’t” is a must-read for fans of speculative fiction and anyone seeking to explore the boundaries of memory and identity in a world that often feels uncertain.
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The Building That Wasn’t by Abigail Miles | Goodreads
