'Fade' by Bethan White

Updated: Nov 4

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Do you want to remember?

Do you want to forget?

There is nothing extraordinary about Chris Rowan. Each day he wakes to the same faces, has the same breakfast, the same commute, the same sort of homes he tries to rent out to unsuspecting tenants. There is nothing extraordinary about Chris Rowan. That is apart from the black dog that haunts his nightmares and an unexpected encounter with a long forgotten demon from his past. A nudge that will send Chris on his own downward spiral, from which there may be no escape. There is nothing extraordinary about Chris Rowan...

"Chilling and beautifully written, Bethan White's debut novel will leave you speechless. 'Fade' serves as a poignant reminder of what a fragile bubble all of us live in." - Richard Denham, author of Britannia

Praise for Fade

"Fade," the debut novel by Bethan White, is a captivating exploration of identity, loss, and the complexities of human connection. Set in a small, tightly-knit community, the story follows the journey of its protagonist, Chris, as he navigates the emotional aftermath of a personal tragedy that leaves him feeling invisible and disconnected from those around him.

White's prose is lyrical and evocative, painting vivid images of Chris's world while delving deeply into his psyche. The author skillfully captures the nuances of grief and the struggle to reclaim one's sense of self in the face of overwhelming sorrow. Chris's internal battles are rendered with authenticity, making his journey both relatable and poignant.

The supporting characters are equally well-drawn, each contributing to Chris's growth in unique ways. From his well-meaning but often misguided friends to the enigmatic figure of a stranger who offers him a glimpse of hope, every interaction propels the narrative forward and adds layers to Chris's understanding of himself and his place in the world.

One of the novel’s strengths is its exploration of the theme of fading—both in the literal sense of losing one’s presence in the lives of others and in the metaphorical sense of fading memories and aspirations. White deftly weaves these themes throughout the narrative, encouraging readers to reflect on their own relationships and the transient nature of existence.

However, some readers may find the pacing slow in parts, particularly during introspective passages. While these moments are rich with insight, they can occasionally disrupt the narrative flow. Nevertheless, the emotional payoff is profound, and the resolution is both satisfying and thought-provoking.

In "Fade," Bethan White has crafted a tender and evocative story that lingers long after the final page is turned. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of connection and the resilience of the human spirit. This novel is a must-read for anyone who has ever felt lost and is searching for a way to be found again.