Patricia Bell
Cloud Ink Press
Otago Daily Times, May 14th 2022
Maurice Toogood is a middle-aged, balding, under tall, divorced librarian whose first thought upon his death is a relief at missing a staff meeting. Unfortunately, the afterlife (which combines the worst features of Upload and The Good Place with the aesthetics of Hi-de-Hi and astroturf) is, if anything, worse. Although policed by Archangels and including a handful of biblical characters among its unwilling residents, God has left the building, and trouble is brewing. Maurice considers escaping, but as this would require some sort of definitive action on his part, success appears unlikely.
Meanwhile, back on earth, his daughter Andy learns, too late, that the man for whom she has nothing but contempt once had hopes and dreams very similar to her own. She pours out her heart in letters to him, her emotionally charged words contrasting with the flippant voice behind which Maurice hides. How he responds in her hour of need will determine whether this is the heaven he needs or the one he deserves.
Light-hearted in tone and full of ironic humour, The Library of Unfinished Business is an entertaining read that reminds us to hold on to our passions and treasure our time with those we love.
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