Ways to be far removed” is the second novel from Basque author Edurne Portela. As in her previous work it deals with domestic violence, but in this instance in a more subtle and refined way, highlighting toxic relations and psychological abuse.

Her main character, Alicia, lives through this violent situation when she marries Matty.  These are two people that come from different worlds and cultures and end up pitted against each other because they see the world from different perspectives.  The two main characters meet in a small southern town in the U.S.  They fall in love, start a life together; achieving what some call “The American Dream:” a house, careers, good jobs, good cars.  She has left behind her family, friends and her life in the Basque country and has thrown herself into an intense college career.  He has achieved happiness through the routine of administrative work at a bank.

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