Reviews of After the Clearances

“A thoughtful exploration of what our future could look like. Neither utopian ideal nor dystopian nightmare; instead Layland gives us a thrutopian vision, one that acknowledges the messy spectrum of our humanity and still gives us a glimpse of hope.” Rosy Adams, Folding Rock magazine

“This inventive, thought-provoking feat of climate fiction is as bold, beautiful and enthralling as the Welsh landscapes it conjures”. Joanne Owens, Lovereading UK

“A dark imagining of life in Wales in 2056, After the Clearances follows a community of remote islanders caught up in the relentless consequences of climate change and harsh authoritarian repression. This is a bold novel brimming with ideas and ideas. Prepare to be provoked.” Martine Bailey

“The need for adaptation to the climate emergency by individuals and community underlies this gripping tale that always rings true.”  Linda Newbury

“Profoundly atmospheric and affecting —  Alison Layland is a very fine writer indeed.”  Philip Gwynne Jones 

“In today’s world it takes a brave woman to write a near future dystopia, and a brave press to publish. I’m so glad that Alison Layland and Honno took the risk.” Sian Northey 

“An inventive vision of a future which is all too credible.” Dea Parkin

“Shines a light on how current behavior may lead to further environmental degradation and human atrocity while examining the role of trust — and the lack thereof — in a functioning society.” Kate Woodworth, Little Great Island

“Timely. Emotive. Masterful. A thoughtful conversation starter that explores an all too real near future. A story with heart, about relationships and community lost and found.” Louise Mumford

“A compelling story of language, community and renewal – a powerful tale of tomorrow for our own time.” Katherine Stansfield

“Smart, compelling, urgent storytelling.” Elaine Canning

“A welcome reflection on reframing our values amidst the climate emergency.”  Sophie Buchaillard

“Unsettling, thought-provoking and thrilling.”  Thorne Moore

“Takes on big ideas about protest and responsibility, violence and survival … in a future that doesn’t feel at all distant.” Sarah Jasmon

“Combines a storyteller’s sensitivity with an activist’s keen awareness. Challenges and entertains readers with thoughtfulness, honesty and hope.” Elaine Walker

“A whole new world, which feels all the more plausible as we have recently emerged from a pandemic and are living with an increasingly erratic climate.”  Fiona Collins

The most powerfully written and thought-provoking book I’ve read in a long time. Judith Barrow