MATIA - Reviews

Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to read and review Matia. Here are a small selection of the print and online reviews that have come in so far:

“Through four different points of view, Tsokos Purtill excavates what it means to be a woman, particularly when traditional values and the social and cultural consequences of immigration trickle down through generations. Matia is an engrossing novel that looks at intergenerational trauma, secrets, guilt, tradition and superstition, for fans of The Eighth Life by Nino Haratischvili.” —DANIELLE BAGNATO, Books + Publishing

“The novel moves back and forth in time, unravelling defining moments in the lives of its four engaging protagonists, connecting them through a long chain of memories, secrets, dreams, and even prophecies, keeping the reader in suspense until the very end...Over four generations and three continents, from Greece to Perth to New York and back again, Emily Tsokos Purtill writes a rich and moving tale...Through the eyes of four resilient women in MATIA, Emily Tsokos Purtill captures the complexities of migration, identity, and the strong hold to heritage. As each generation navigates the challenges of a new world, they carry with them the timeless wisdom of their ancestors, through traditions, memories, and the stories they pass on.” —IRIS PAPATHANASIOU, Neos Kosmos

“An engaging narrative of generational guilt, hurt, love and ultimately, hope. This is an elegantly, seductively written literary novel that will appeal to all women, to all who have made the journey to new countries seeking a better life (we are mostly a nation of migrants) and should be read by all men, yes this is a feminist narrative...The feminist framework that supports the narrative is one many are familiar with and the author makes many profound statements (book clubs take note – this is a perfect book for your next group read)...This book has a lot to offer the reader, I wonder what you will glean from this reading experience? 5 Stars from me.” —★★★★★ CAROL SEELEY, Reading, Writing and Riesling

“There is a richness running through this book that has to do with the importance of family and culture, and the power of tradition and rituals to bring women together for support and pleasure. The disconnection from this brought about by migration and the changes to the lives of women that education, careers and increasing independence bring is also very much part of Matia. The characters are beautifully realized, each with their own particular personality.” —ANN SKEA, Newtown Review of Books

I have linked to all reviews on the MATIA page and will continue to update it as they come in.

Emily

November 2024