Gerda Blees weaves a captivating tale about individuals grappling with the void in their lives. Through deliberate acts of deprivation, whether it be forgoing food or material possessions, they attempt to reclaim a sense of control in the face of helplessness. Yet, as their self-imposed sacrifices reveal their inherent fragility, their pursuit of abstinence becomes increasingly absurd.

Muriel, Petrus, Melodie, and Elisabeth fall prey to unscrupulous 'saviors' who preach salvation at a steep price: Believe fervently, with the right mindset and disciplined self-control, and you can survive without sustenance, sustained solely by light. As the members of this small community waste away, they stubbornly perceive their emaciation not as evidence of deception, but as a testament to their own inadequacies, leading to a tragic outcome.

The book delves into themes of isolation, manipulation, and the eternal quest for meaning. What sets it apart as an exceptional reading experience is the ingenious and surprising narrative: a chorus of multiple voices that gives expression not only to humans, but also to various entities, objects, and even abstract concepts. This ranges from the highly exalted to the mundane: Night, sound and love all find their voice, but so do the crime scene, a juicer, and two cigarettes.

Gerda Blees skillfully crafts characters who have little left to offer, their strength depleted in every aspect of their lives. The depth of their thoughts and emotions is more hinted at than explicitly captured, yet they emerge as richly developed and multifaceted personalities. 

The writing style is a delight: sophisticated, creative, captivating, and clear – truly one of a kind. This cleverly staged drama leaves a subtle yet profound impact, making it a remarkable debut!