'The Love Genes' by Eleni Cay is a thought-provoking novel set in 2039 Sweden that explores the complexities of love, relationships, and mental illness in a futuristic society. Through the eyes of protagonist Katie, the reader is transported to a world that is both familiar and strange, where technology has advanced but societal norms and attitudes towards mental illness are still a work in progress. As Katie struggles to adjust to her new life in Sweden and her relationship with her boyfriend Mark, the novel delves into darker themes such as domestic violence, raising important moral questions about the nature of mental illness and the effectiveness of prison as a means of rehabilitation. 'The Love Genes' is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the nuances of relationships, mental illness, and societal norms.

Review: 

It is not easy to move to a foreign country and adjust yourself to its societal norms fast but the character of Kate does so successfully, learning the language and immersing herself in Swedish culture.  It was nice to learn about Swedish attitudes and culture which presented a stark difference to London/English living. Kate's move to Sweden showcases her independence and bravery, but also her difficulties of settling in to a new job and meeting new people, when she is very much still attached to her past life. The move can be seen as a rebirth for Kate's soul after her past struggles - there's multiple references to these throughout the novel which I think leave you with enough understanding, however, although I don't think it necessary to read the previous books in the series, I believe knowing more about Kate's past would enhance the experience.

The novel also explores themes such as infertility, domestic violence and mental health, and Cay incorporates these themes in a sensitive and realistic manner. It was evident that Kate was not only suffering physically due to her Multiple Sclerosis and being in pain every day, but also mentally due to her past trauma, as well as present difficulties emerging from her relationships and work. I found it to be quite a heartbreaking read, seeing how Kate was treated by the men she got with and how she was at a low point mentally because of the pressure to have a baby and people's constant references to babies. I did not warm to the character of Mark as it was clear from the beginning that he would not put in effort into the relationship. Kate's complicated relationship with Erik was also not easy to read about; they were both suffering, however, Erik's behaviour cannot be excused. The exploration of domestic violence in the novel certainly leaves you reflecting upon the topic of mental illness and prison rehabilitation. You can find a more nuanced discussion of this on the Kenyon Author Services blog.

Furthermore, I found it interesting that 'The Love Genes' showcases mental health stigma even though it is set in a futuristic society of technological advancements. Whilst the year the novel is set in didn't make a massive difference for me, I think it was a great way for Cay to depict how we have all these advancements but people's attitudes are not advancing at the same speed, and there is a long way to go before mental illness is a topic that people will fully understand.

Overall, I found 'The Love Genes' to be a brilliant novel with a well-developed protagonist that I found it easy to empathise with. When reading, I was also in awe of Cay's interweaving of her poetic voice and the note of literary fiction throughout the novel, which is evident through the language and reflections that fill it. I kept on highlighting quotes which I found were good reflections of society, as well as of life. Even though it was a heartbreaking read, it was great to see the character of Kate be surrounded with supportive friends and family after all her suffering. If you decide to read 'The Love Genes' then make sure to get some tissues ready as it can get heavy at times. 

You can get a Kindle or paperback version of 'The Love Genes' at a bargain price right now, and if you want to start from the beginning of Kate's story then the other books in the Seven Kinds of Love series are also available in both formats. I have already added them to my wish list and I look forward to reading them after I finish my degree in May (counting down the days now!). I certainly hope there's more to come for the character of Kate as I'm invested in her life now, especially after that incredible cliffhanger ending!

Massive thanks to Isabelle Kenyon for organising the blog tour and for allowing me to take part, as well as for the  gifted copy of the ebook in exchange for my honest review.

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About the Author

Eleni Cay is a Slovakian-born poet living in the UK and Norway. Her most recent poems appeared in Acumen, Atticus Review, The Cardiff Review and Poetry Ireland Review. Eleni is known for her filmpoems and dancepoems, which have been screened at international festivals and featured on Button Poetry. Her award- winning first collection was published by Parthian Books and her pamphlets were published by Westbury Arts Centre and Eyewear Press. Her debut novel 'The Love Virus’ was described as a ‘novel that quietly changes lives’.

If you're intrigued by 'The Love Genes' then check out the other stops on the blog tour, which you can find below as well as on Twitter.