The Husbands

Absolutely hilarious light sci fi, with a plot that keeps jutting forward just as you think you've figured it out.

Our protagonist, Lauren, makes her way home from a friend's bachelorette party, clambering into her apartment drunk with a painted succulent in hand. Only to find a man in her home. Not just a man, but her husband Michael.

The only (albeit fundamental) issue is that Lauren has never seen this man in her life, let alone married him. Shortly thereafter, he goes into the attic to change a lightbulb he noticed went out. When he comes down from the attic, he's a different man. A different husband.

Lauren finds herself caught in an endless loop of inescapable, ever changing men who some version of herself pledged her life to. Time continues to pass, but normalcy passes her by, as each new husband changes her life, sometimes in small ways, and other times massively. The attic keeps blipping away men and the lives that came with them before she can get her bearings.

This was a really fun read with an ending that kind of sucker punched me. The premise allowed Gramazio to explore the inherent risks of vulnerability, trust, and love, without feeling trite. I also appreciated its long-running jokes and diversity. Wonderful audiobook narration, as well.

For fans of...I don't even know, actually. It is pretty unique. But I liked it so much!