Review of ‘Swallow the Ghost’: an examination of memory in the digital era with potential but varying results

“Eugenie Montague’s debut novel ‘Swallow the Ghost’ is a unique and imaginative work that can be likened to three distinct novels woven into one. The story revolves around Jane Murphy, an employee at a New York social media startup involved in an internet novel that gains popularity through the creation of detailed character backstories shared on social platforms.
Throughout the novel, the narrative unfolds through three interconnected sections, each focusing on different characters. The first section delves into Jane’s perspective, followed by sections dedicated to Jesse, a former journalist turned investigator, and Jeremy, a pretentious novelist and Jane’s occasional boyfriend.
Despite the varying writing styles and genres in each section, Montague’s novel primarily delves into the theme of memory in the digital age. While the concept shows promise, its execution feels somewhat uneven.
Montague’s writing is praised for its beautiful prose and its exploration of how individuals are remembered. Particularly poignant are the scenes depicting Jesse’s interactions with his mother, who suffers from dementia, evoking deeply moving moments in the novel.
However, certain parts of the book tend to wander, especially the final section presented as a transcript of a bookstore discussion with Jeremy. While this segment provides additional insights into Jane and the novel’s underlying questions, it also slows down the pace established in the previous section centered on Jesse and his investigative work.
Despite occasional shortcomings, Montague’s ambitious approach offers readers plenty to ponder, showcasing her as a fresh and inventive literary voice.”