Reviewed by Willam Haines for Readers' Favorite

In Periphery by AA DaSilva, Charlotte struggles to decide between what she has done in the past, the people in her life, and the events that are gradually starting to unfold before her. Her conflicts stem from unresolved feelings toward her father-in-law and her late husband Jared. Charlotte's life is turned upside down when Simon (Sy), a mysterious man enters her life. Conspiracy and supernatural scenarios, which jeopardize Charlotte's life, are introduced by Simon’s link with the mysterious organization called Quantym, which focuses on experiments on consciousness and the afterlife. Whenever Simon demonstrates his power to ‘jump’ between realms, the stakes rise, making Charlotte ponder on her doubts as well as the dangers associated with Jared. These aspiring alliances are showcased particularly so with Sy, a protector who intervenes during moments of risk. Portraying Charlotte’s personal dilemmas and growing tension, the story continues with a series of decisions that will determine Charlotte's and other characters’ paths.

Periphery stands out in delivering the complex relationships of the characters as well as the thrilling supernatural subplot. The focus on Charlotte's development is quite gripping and the reader will not only understand her struggles but can relate to them as well. The writing addresses themes of identity, trust, and carrying the weight of choices without being overly didactic. Simon’s abilities and the existence of the Quantym organization help to make the story more compelling and escalate with each discovery. AA DaSilva does a great job of keeping the suspense and the surprise while proposing more pensive and clever moments in the blend of the main characters’ problems and the metaphysical aspects of the series. This slow-burn nature of the story works well, and the dialogue feels real, especially as characters grapple with the very nature of the ability Simon possesses. All in all, it is a well-wrought tale that draws the reader into its web of unfolding events to make the audience reflect on pertinent issues such as treachery, affection, and the nature of existence.