Severance

by Ling Ma
Severance cover
Good Books rating 4.3
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
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Format • £8.54
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  • ID: 1149
  • Added: 2025-09-27
  • Updated: 2026-03-11
  • ISBN: 9781925774139
  • Publisher: Text Publishing
  • Published: 2018-09-03
  • Formats: 18
  • Reviews: 4

Candace Chen, a millennial working in a Manhattan office, finds her routine disrupted by a biblical plague. Joining a group of survivors led by the enigmatic Bob, she embarks on a journey to the Facility, a promised sanctuary. However, Candace harbors a secret that could change everything. Severance is a send-up of contemporary life, blending deadpan satire with a heartfelt tribute to the connections that drive us to survive. Ling Ma's debut novel is a clever critique of capitalism and the comforting yet debilitating effects of nostalgia. With prose reminiscent of Kazuo Ishiguro, Ma explores themes of loss, group dynamics, and the immigrant experience. The novel's strength lies in its hauntingly plausible end-of-the-world scenario and its sharp observations of late capitalism.

Reviews
Certified Noonas · 2023-03-23
intriguing 4.00

The book is a compelling blend of dystopian and satirical elements, offering a unique perspective on contemporary society. It effectively balances humor and horror, making it a standout read.

This reviewer found Severance to be a refreshing take on the apocalyptic genre, blending satire and horror in a way that feels both timely and timeless. The protagonist's journey is both harrowing and humorous, offering a critique of modern life that resonates deeply. The pacing is excellent, keeping the reader engaged throughout. The reviewer particularly appreciated the way the book explores themes of memory and capitalism, making it a thought-provoking read. However, they noted that some readers might find the ending somewhat abrupt.

Quick quotes

    The book effectively balances humor and horror.

    A refreshing take on the apocalyptic genre.

    The pacing is excellent, keeping the reader engaged throughout.

Reading, Writing and Me · 2022-12-28
engaging 4.50

The character development is exceptional, and the plot moves at a fast pace, making it hard to put down. The book offers a unique perspective on contemporary life and capitalism.

This reviewer was captivated by the character development in Severance, finding the protagonist's journey both relatable and compelling. The fast-paced plot keeps the reader hooked, making it a quick and enjoyable read. The book's critique of capitalism and contemporary life is subtle yet powerful, offering a unique perspective that stays with the reader long after finishing the book. The reviewer appreciated the blend of dystopian and satirical elements, which make the story both entertaining and thought-provoking. They noted that the book's humor adds a layer of depth to the otherwise bleak setting.

Quick quotes

    The character development is exceptional.

    The plot moves at a fast pace, making it hard to put down.

    The book offers a unique perspective on contemporary life and capitalism.

Locus Magazine · Ian Mond · 2019-02-05
compelling 4.50

The novel offers a sharp critique of capitalism and a poignant exploration of the immigrant experience. The protagonist's journey is both relatable and deeply personal.

Ian Mond praises Severance for its dual focus on capitalism and the immigrant experience. He finds the protagonist's story to be particularly compelling, as it delves into the complexities of identity and belonging. The novel's ability to intertwine these themes with a dystopian narrative makes it a standout work. Mond also appreciates the honest and unflinching portrayal of the immigrant experience, which adds depth and authenticity to the story.

Quick quotes

    Severance isn't just a takedown of capitalism; it's also an honest examination of the immigrant experience.

    Candace's fraught relationship with her past and present is both relatable and deeply personal.

    A poignant exploration of identity and belonging.

The New Yorker · 2018-12-10
thought-provoking 4.20

The book captures the bleak and fatalistic mood of its time, offering a sharp critique of capitalism and immigration. The blend of humor and horror makes it a standout read.

This reviewer found Severance to be a poignant reflection of the bleak and fatalistic mood that permeated 2018. The book's critique of capitalism and immigration is both sharp and timely, offering a unique perspective on contemporary society. The blend of humor and horror makes the story both entertaining and thought-provoking. The reviewer appreciated the way the book explores themes of memory and loss, making it a deeply moving read. They noted that the protagonist's journey is both relatable and compelling, adding depth to the story. The book's satirical elements add a layer of complexity that keeps the reader engaged.

Quick quotes

    Captures the bleak and fatalistic mood of its time.

    A sharp critique of capitalism and immigration.

    The blend of humor and horror makes it a standout read.

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