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Released: 28/01/2018

ISBN: 9781788039369
eISBN: 9781788030779

Format: Paperback/eBook

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Chrysalis

by Jeremy Welch

Chrysalis is the debut novel from Jeremy Welch exploring a range of themes in a universal and ultimately hopeful story. The book follows Sebastian, a self-absorbed financier who spends his time wallowing in a social ambiance he despises. Sebastian is dissatisfied with his life and his inability to take any positive decisions since making a catastrophic error when he was a young officer serving in Iraq.

When Sebastian is fired from his job, he turns to his ex-lover Zoe who urges him to pursue his passion for writing. Following her advice, Sebastian moves to Amsterdam to try to complete the novel he started as a student, hoping that this will rekindle his interest in life.

While living in Amsterdam, Sebastian befriends the ethereal owner of a travelling Spiegeltent called Chrysalis. The cast of the Spiegeltent offer him a glimpse of a life he desires. The only thing holding Sebastian back is his inability to make a decision. Overcoming his usual passivity Sebastian surprises himself by intervening in the assault of a prostitute. So opens the gateway to the underworld of Amsterdam and the possibility of his redemption.

Inspired by the work of William Boyd and John Irving, Chrysalis is a unique novel exploring a wide range of themes. The book will appeal to readers that enjoy contemporary fiction, as well as those interested in serious issues such as love, widowhood, post-traumatic stress disorder and migration and sex trafficking.

Press Coverage

The Edinburgh Reporter

Books Monthly

Undiscovered Scotland

Book Reviews

As I finish reading "Chrysalis" by Jeremy Welch, I can't help but recalling this quote: "He Who Saves Just one Life Saves The World Entire" (from the Jewish Talmud). This book vividly describes the red light district of Amsterdam, as the main character Sebastian, fed up with the materialistic grind of London, escapes to find himself, by attempting in writing his first novel, and becoming involved with his new surroundings. Unknowingly he rents a place, which happens to be where he is able to observe and form relationships with the people living at the fringe of society. Non-judgmentally, with passion and compassion he learns of the fate and course of prostitution, victims of human trafficking, as well as the Spiegletent (a cabaret type circus), who become his friends and muses. The hopelessness of the victims of human trafficking is expressed through the voice and passion of a man that wants to help.

by Keren Krinick (via NetGalley)

The book has it all, humour, emotion, suspense and Action. Very well written and very enjoyable to read. Thoroughly recommended.

by Stephen Dickinson

Welch tells a great story. It starts slowly and then speeds up to a final reveal that surprised me. By the end it is running fast, so stay with it for the ride.

You want to know more as you read as Welch develops the action. Many of the characters are memorable. Rosie and the twins are perfectly formed.

For me, the best parts of the book are set in Amsterdam. You feel like you are there and involved in the action. The lives of performers are captured along with what they care about.

A great first book and look forward to the next one.

by OB

A great read that builds to a surprising reveal. Hold on for the ride.

You feel you are in Amsterdam and emotionally involved with the troupe. The main character,Sebastian, evolves as a person and Rosie and the twins are perfectly formed.

Can't wait for Welch's next one.

by Oliver Berry

Just finished this and loved every page. Beautifully descriptive and wonderful characterization. You don't so much as read this but take part in it, as an extra / cast member of its imagined dramatization.

It would make a wonderful film or screenplay and builds to a thrilling climactic conclusion. Let's hope we haven't seen or heard the last of Sebastian, Umuntu and the rest of the Spiegeltent family - a sequel is begging!

by RawMelodyMe

Utterly new fresh style - got lost in the depths of a fascinating story which kept me hooked throughout. The detailed observations of people interactions simply wonderful. Order kick back and enjoy!

by Joanna