The Cost of Living by Daisy DeMay is an engaging work of fiction that delves into the lives of survivors grappling with a new and dystopian world, brought upon by a series of devastating tornadoes and catastrophic weather events. The protagonist, Sara, endures the heart-wrenching loss of her two young children during the initial tornado, leaving her to cope with grief amidst the chaos. Compounding her suffering is her husband’s persistently abusive behavior, which only ceases when he is permanently removed from her life. To ensure her survival, Sara forms an alliance with Sam Alperstein, a high school friend she had lost touch with after marrying, and Adam, a stranger who valiantly rescues her from an escaped convict. However, in a world where moral boundaries blur, Sara faces the daunting task of determining whom she can trust.

Throughout the narrative, The Cost of Living introduces captivating plot twists that effortlessly sustain the reader’s attention and curiosity. The author adeptly weaves unforeseen elements into the story, constantly challenging our perceptions of heroism and villainy. I particularly appreciated the inclusion of these unexpected elements, as they diverge from the conventional approach employed by most dystopian works. Moreover, the novel provides a thought-provoking exploration of how individuals navigate the aftermath of societal collapse. The characters’ struggle to adapt to a life devoid of emergency services, law enforcement, and functioning governance resonated deeply as they grappled with finding missing family members, seeking assistance, and seeking solace in this new reality.

While The Cost of Living succeeds in captivating its readers, it does leave some lingering questions unanswered by its conclusion. Personally, I yearned to discover the fate of Sara, Sam, and Adam once they connected with another group of survivors. However, this open-endedness also leaves room for further contemplation and imaginative speculation, inviting readers to ponder the characters’ futures beyond the pages of the book. This book delves into dark themes. The narrative confronts distressing subjects such as the loss of children, verbal and physical abuse, suicidal thoughts, suicide, and torture. So, a word of caution to those that are not comfortable with those subjects, but the novel does a good job of portraying them thoughtfully.

I encountered moments within the book where Sara’s reactions to certain situations demonstrated an intriguing unpredictability, adding a layer of complexity to her character. Additionally, her willingness to forge ahead despite clear warnings showcased a remarkable determination, enhancing the depth of her portrayal. The intentional absence of contractions in the dialogue contributed to a deliberate cadence, lending a distinct and unique quality to the overall conversation flow.

The Cost of Living by Daisy DeMay immerses readers in a compelling narrative that navigates the trials and tribulations of survivors in a dystopian world. The unexpected twists and moral ambiguities add depth to the story, ensuring a gripping reading experience.

Pages: 364 | ASIN: B0C41625WL