THE CENTRE

The Centre by Ayesha Manazir Siddiqi is a slow-burning nightmare with cult-like undertones. A literary masterpiece that entangles speculative fiction and modern horror.

The narrative of this story follows a Pakistani translator whose life takes a bewildering turn when her boyfriend introduces her to an organization that promises fluency in any language through an intensive process. As the story unfolds, it weaves a complex tapestry of characters, their likability often shrouded in ambiguity. The diverse cast of characters felt very human, which offered a relatable anchor to the complex narrative.

The pacing of the story is a double-edged sword, for while it maintains a medium tempo, it occasionally stumbles into moments that may seem to drag. Nevertheless, Siddiqi's writing style is truly engaging. And as an audiobook listener, your experience may differ from mine.

The Centre channels the spirit of an episode of Black Mirror. It fearlessly delves into thought-provoking questions surrounding the power of language, memory, privilege, and culture. The underlying feeling of unease permeates the narrative, which left me in a constant state of suspicion. I would recommend this book for those who relish the exploration of the human psyche and the intricate role of language, as well as the moral quandaries that emerge. However, be forewarned that it is a dark nature may not resonate with everyone.

In terms of constructive criticism, the high-concept and risky plot occasionally leaves some ideas feeling unresolved. Whether this was intentional on the author's part is open to interpretation. While I may not recommend this book often, The Centre is a story that will likely linger in my memory, a testament to its thought-provoking narrative.

Please check trigger warnings if you have concerns. Otherwise, the gradual revelation of how the language center operates will keep you engaged, albeit with a sense of disquiet.

Rating: 3.5 stars