Poignant and Thought-Provoking: "Living on the Veranda"

Step into the emotional journey of Lin Bankers, a psychotherapist in the depths of a burnout. Struggling with the recent loss of her mother and the heavy burdens of caretaking, Lin finds solace in the idea of purchasing a new zitbank (sofa) with part of her inheritance. However, her excitement quickly turns into despair as the oversized sofa refuses to fit through her door.

A Twist of Fate: A Father's Unexpected Arrival

Just when Lin thinks she couldn't handle any more challenges, fate plays its hand. Her estranged father, abandoned and ill, is unexpectedly delivered to her doorstep by his partner. Overwhelmed by the thought of inviting him inside, Lin reluctantly allows him to camp out on the veranda, atop the ill-fitting sofa.

A Descent into Darkness

As her father takes up residence on the veranda, Lin's mental and emotional health rapidly deteriorates. The weight of her past and present struggles become unbearable, forcing her to confront the decisions she has long avoided. Heidi Koren, an acclaimed poet and graduate of the renowned Schrijversvakschool Amsterdam, skillfully portrays Lin's descent into darkness, capturing the raw intensity of her pain and inner turmoil.

A Visceral Breakthrough: Breaking the Cycle

In this captivating debut novel, Koren weaves a powerful tale of resilience and self-discovery. Lin, pushed to her breaking point, finally musters the courage to confront her father and herself. Through her transformation, a profound journey of healing and redemption is embarked upon, reminding us of the indomitable spirit within us all.

Discover the power of forgiveness, the complexities of familial bonds, and the strength of the human spirit in "Living on the Veranda." Heidi Koren's unique storytelling and poignant prose will leave you pondering the significance of one's choices and the ultimate liberation found in breaking free from the past.

Heidi Koren, an accomplished writer whose work has been featured in various literary magazines, brings her extraordinary talent to life in this compelling novel. Follow her blog on grofvankoren.com for insightful musings and updates on her literary endeavors.