So, this book made me cry. That might be a terrible way to start this review however I'm of the opinion that the best stories stir one's emotions. There are many books that speculate the workings of an afterlife but in Mal Caldera's afterlife, it's as raw and passionate as the land of the living. The author managed to hit the emotional beats without coming off as twee or overly sentimental. Mal is an engaging protagonist, even at her lowest point you want to stick around to see her journey through. "The Afterlife of Mal Caldera" is a genuine love letter to all facets of life: the messiness, the pain, the joys and the love.

A novel that personifies the perfect use of first person narrative, the author opens up the story in the apartment of a person recently passed but to reasons unknown. The author launches quickly into plot as protoganist Malena (Mal) comes to terms there is no judgment but is introduced to the “afterlife”. I really enjoyed the quick pace of the beginning; not only was I drawn in but I didn’t want to put the story down either.

How unexpected; a heartfelt story of grieving laced with dark humor. I would have enjoyed a little more set up with Ren; they fell into that friendship a little too quickly and he was a much deeper character than that. The love story between the two just got in the way of the depth of the story for me. The pacing in the back half felt completely different from the first, so that threw me off. And the “love story” just made me sad.

Overall, this was a great read, if you can handle someone facing their inner demons with a little dark humor too. Definitely add this one to your reading wishlist

This book offered a variety of emotions and a foray into mental health. It was a sweet read on love, life, and meaningful relationships. I loved Mal, she became one of my favorite literary characters.

I thought this was quite different from other books I have read ,and I applaud the originality. I didn't fully get into the story, but I would say that if you are looking for something different, this could well be the book for you. I wouldn't put anyone off reading it, but it didn't quite hit the spot for me.

I LOVED THIS. Oh my gosh. It was so touching, funny, tragic and just genuinely a realistic approach to mental health, life, love and what we all mean to each other in this strange world.

This book definitely had me feeling a whole range of emotions, funny and poignant moments throughout.