Service95 Recommends is the home of the books we love and reviews from our contributors. Cautery by Lucía Lijtmaer is a funny and savage criticism of the cheap, meme-ified faux feminism.
What We Say: “A provocative dual-narrative novel that intertwines the lives of two women – one contemporary, one from the 17th century – who are both grappling with societal expectations and personal trauma. Each chapter alternates between the young woman, reeling from a toxic relationship in modern-day Barcelona, and Deborah Moody, a historical figure exiled to colonial America, both seeking autonomy through radical acts of defiance. Lucía’s sharp prose – brilliantly translated by Maureen Shaughnessy – is rich with dark humour and feminist critique, delivering a fascinating exploration of pain, rebellion, and the intricacies of female solidarity. I loved it!” – Samantha de Haas
What They Say: “A searing, twisted feast.” – Laura Fernández
Available on Bookshop.org, Waterstones, and Barnes & Noble
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Samantha de Haas is Creative Production Manager at Service95
