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Under Story
Not yet published
Expected 1 Sep 26The New York Times bestselling author of The Immortalists returns with an intimate yet epic love story—and a sweeping odyssey of scientific discovery. Under Story invites us to consider the promise of this life, what might lie beyond it, and how far we would go for more time with the people we love, cementing Chloe Benjamin’s place among our best, and most lasting, storytellers.
“We wake up to tomorrow, never yesterday.”
At the end of the world, biologist Laurel Salter is hiding from everything she’s ever known. For ten hours a day, six days per week, she works as a dishwasher at McMurdo Station, an isolated research base in Antarctica. She tells no one that before she arrived, she was a renowned young scientist with a promising career, a husband, and a family.
But even in this remote outpost, Laurel can’t outrun her past. When a strange light appears across the ice—and draws a group of physicists to McMurdo—her former husband, Eli, won't be far behind.
Laurel is captivated by the Arc: its surreal glow; the way it seems almost alive. And though Eli is reluctant to test her wildest theory, Laurel is convinced that the Arc leads down a rabbit hole, and into a world, they can barely imagine. Can she persuade him to risk everything to fix the burden that hangs between them—to turn back the clock and live their story a second time?
A breathless page-turner and a love letter to our planet, Under Story grapples with the great questions of our time: human hubris, the precarity of the natural world, and the mysterious webs of consciousness that bind us. A modern epic of science and soul, of bravery and redemption, it offers a vision of the future that demands we reckon with what we owe to one another, and to the earth itself.
“We wake up to tomorrow, never yesterday.”
At the end of the world, biologist Laurel Salter is hiding from everything she’s ever known. For ten hours a day, six days per week, she works as a dishwasher at McMurdo Station, an isolated research base in Antarctica. She tells no one that before she arrived, she was a renowned young scientist with a promising career, a husband, and a family.
But even in this remote outpost, Laurel can’t outrun her past. When a strange light appears across the ice—and draws a group of physicists to McMurdo—her former husband, Eli, won't be far behind.
Laurel is captivated by the Arc: its surreal glow; the way it seems almost alive. And though Eli is reluctant to test her wildest theory, Laurel is convinced that the Arc leads down a rabbit hole, and into a world, they can barely imagine. Can she persuade him to risk everything to fix the burden that hangs between them—to turn back the clock and live their story a second time?
A breathless page-turner and a love letter to our planet, Under Story grapples with the great questions of our time: human hubris, the precarity of the natural world, and the mysterious webs of consciousness that bind us. A modern epic of science and soul, of bravery and redemption, it offers a vision of the future that demands we reckon with what we owe to one another, and to the earth itself.
512 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication September 1, 2026
About the author
Chloe Benjamin
4 books2,748 followersChloe Benjamin is the author of THE IMMORTALISTS, a New York Times Bestseller, and THE ANATOMY OF DREAMS. Her third novel, UNDER STORY, will be published in September 2026.
A Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers selection, LibraryReads favorite, and #1 Indie Next pick, THE IMMORTALISTS was named a best book of 2018 by NPR, The Washington Post, Entertainment Weekly, and others. THE ANATOMY OF DREAMS received the Edna Ferber Fiction Book Award and was long listed for the 2014 Center for Fiction First Novel Prize.
Originally from San Francisco, CA, Benjamin is a graduate of Vassar College and the M.F.A. in fiction at the University of Wisconsin. Her work has been translated into over thirty languages. She lives with her husband and two Maine Coon cats in the San Francisco Bay Area.
A Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers selection, LibraryReads favorite, and #1 Indie Next pick, THE IMMORTALISTS was named a best book of 2018 by NPR, The Washington Post, Entertainment Weekly, and others. THE ANATOMY OF DREAMS received the Edna Ferber Fiction Book Award and was long listed for the 2014 Center for Fiction First Novel Prize.
Originally from San Francisco, CA, Benjamin is a graduate of Vassar College and the M.F.A. in fiction at the University of Wisconsin. Her work has been translated into over thirty languages. She lives with her husband and two Maine Coon cats in the San Francisco Bay Area.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
June 26, 2026
The most beautiful exploration of a what if I’ve read in a while.
Laurel, a brilliant scientist, Is hiding from everything and everyone in the furthest place she can think of - an isolated research station on Antarctica. We know she is escaping a reality she cant quite face, and we slowly realize exactly why. When a strange yet beautiful arc suddenly appears (also drawing her husband, Eli, to Antarctica) alongside a long shot that they could perhaps turn time and do things all over again, Lauren and Eli are confronted with the most heart aching and mind bending of “what ifs”.
I finished this one with full body chills, but it’s also kind of heart to talk about without spoiling some of it’s power. Here’s what I think you do need to know: you must read some science stuff…you don’t have to understand it all, but the first half holds a lot of it. Keep going. This is also an exploration of grief, time, connectivity, and consciousness in a wholly original way. Once I realized what was happening, I raced to finish this. I needed to see Lauren and Eli through in a way that felt like they were in someway…mine? This was a deeply personal reading experience, and I imagine that will be the case for anyone that knows a capital g Grief.
I wish I could say more, but that might spoil some for you when this publishes September 1. Thank you @tinder_press for this e-galley. I cannot wait to talk with fellow readers about this one, and I hope Chloe Benjamin continues exploring these “what ifs”, helping each of us savor the good a little more each time.
Laurel, a brilliant scientist, Is hiding from everything and everyone in the furthest place she can think of - an isolated research station on Antarctica. We know she is escaping a reality she cant quite face, and we slowly realize exactly why. When a strange yet beautiful arc suddenly appears (also drawing her husband, Eli, to Antarctica) alongside a long shot that they could perhaps turn time and do things all over again, Lauren and Eli are confronted with the most heart aching and mind bending of “what ifs”.
I finished this one with full body chills, but it’s also kind of heart to talk about without spoiling some of it’s power. Here’s what I think you do need to know: you must read some science stuff…you don’t have to understand it all, but the first half holds a lot of it. Keep going. This is also an exploration of grief, time, connectivity, and consciousness in a wholly original way. Once I realized what was happening, I raced to finish this. I needed to see Lauren and Eli through in a way that felt like they were in someway…mine? This was a deeply personal reading experience, and I imagine that will be the case for anyone that knows a capital g Grief.
I wish I could say more, but that might spoil some for you when this publishes September 1. Thank you @tinder_press for this e-galley. I cannot wait to talk with fellow readers about this one, and I hope Chloe Benjamin continues exploring these “what ifs”, helping each of us savor the good a little more each time.
Read
February 3, 2026A mind-bending, head-popping sci-fi love story full of intrigue and tenderness.
January 23, 2026
I read Chloe Benjamin’s new book in a fever dream 24 hours where I simply could not put it down - this is a book that somehow manages to tackle big ideas - love, grief, rupture, the origin of life, time itself - in a vividly human story of two people who find themselves at the end of the earth, the end of so many things, and yet - on the cusp of discovery.
This book felt new, bold, and astonishing. It’s not so much a journey as a constant revelation.
The only question I’m left with as a reader is: Where will Chloe Benjamin take us next?
I, for one, can’t wait to find out.
This book felt new, bold, and astonishing. It’s not so much a journey as a constant revelation.
The only question I’m left with as a reader is: Where will Chloe Benjamin take us next?
I, for one, can’t wait to find out.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️ ARC Review from Netgalley
This book had a really intriguing premise, and there were a few moments I genuinely enjoyed, but overall the execution didn’t work for me.
The first 40% was weighed down by excessive backstory and unnecessary detail, which made the book drag. Some descriptions went far beyond what was needed which pulled me out of the story.
The worldbuilding raised more questions than it answered. Key concepts necessary for the story to make sense were either poorly explained or not explained at all. The rules of the world essentially didn't exist.
Late in the book, the timeline starts jumping back and forth between years, which only added to the confusion and was not necessary. It could have been told in order and it wouldn't have changed anything. It seemed like there were 15 different storylines happening at once, and half the time I didn't know which one I was as on.
If this hadn’t been an ARC, I likely would have DNF’d. There are good ideas here, and the premise itself is genuinely cool, but too much was either unexplained or poorly explained. It also couldve been easily half the length. For me, the confusion outweighed the intrigue.
This book had a really intriguing premise, and there were a few moments I genuinely enjoyed, but overall the execution didn’t work for me.
The first 40% was weighed down by excessive backstory and unnecessary detail, which made the book drag. Some descriptions went far beyond what was needed which pulled me out of the story.
The worldbuilding raised more questions than it answered. Key concepts necessary for the story to make sense were either poorly explained or not explained at all. The rules of the world essentially didn't exist.
Late in the book, the timeline starts jumping back and forth between years, which only added to the confusion and was not necessary. It could have been told in order and it wouldn't have changed anything. It seemed like there were 15 different storylines happening at once, and half the time I didn't know which one I was as on.
If this hadn’t been an ARC, I likely would have DNF’d. There are good ideas here, and the premise itself is genuinely cool, but too much was either unexplained or poorly explained. It also couldve been easily half the length. For me, the confusion outweighed the intrigue.
March 3, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Chloe Benjamin for the opportunity to review an ARC of Under Story!
Reading the synopsis, I was really interested in this unique sci-fi story about love, life and death, and the ultimate question of can we live our story a second time but in a different way. I liked the author’s authentic descriptions of grief, trauma, love, and loss. I felt gutted for the main characters throughout their journey. The story had good bones and a fascinating concept. Unfortunately, the first half was incredibly slow with an over abundance of backstory that didn’t feel central to the point. The author’s descriptions for some of the scientific processes were excessive when it wasn’t entirely part of the plot but rather filler.
I liked but didn’t love. Could have been condensed to a place where the concept was still there but you don’t get lost in the weeds of all the unneeded detail.
Reading the synopsis, I was really interested in this unique sci-fi story about love, life and death, and the ultimate question of can we live our story a second time but in a different way. I liked the author’s authentic descriptions of grief, trauma, love, and loss. I felt gutted for the main characters throughout their journey. The story had good bones and a fascinating concept. Unfortunately, the first half was incredibly slow with an over abundance of backstory that didn’t feel central to the point. The author’s descriptions for some of the scientific processes were excessive when it wasn’t entirely part of the plot but rather filler.
I liked but didn’t love. Could have been condensed to a place where the concept was still there but you don’t get lost in the weeds of all the unneeded detail.
Want to Read
June 7, 2026I think it's been enough years since The Immortalists came out that I can safely proclaim: I don't think it was as good as everyone said. Truly, her debut novel, The Anatomy of Dreams was far more interesting. And this new one gives me the impression that Benjamin might be going back to her roots. I shall investigate. 🧐
Click here to hear more about this book and my other anticipated releases of the upcoming quarter over on my Booktube channel, abookolive!
Click here to hear more about this book and my other anticipated releases of the upcoming quarter over on my Booktube channel, abookolive!
April 25, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Putnam for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review. I just closed the book and Wow.
I am a Chloe Benjamin fan, she also knits, it is a long story but this shared hobby likely drew me closer to her. I saw her speak about her last book “The Immortalists” at a coffee shop, she spoke of knitting. I have knit with Chloe. Subsequently, I have observed her for years through social media building this novel. It has been nothing short of painstaking and a labor of love. I have been waiting for this. I am not sorry.
The story is so epic, bear with me, as I can’t do it justice. Eli and Laurel meet very late in high school. Each brilliant in their own right. They both become acclaimed in their field of science and eventually they find their way back to one another. They marry and have Silas. Tragedy strikes which changes the trajectory of their lives together. They separately end up at McMurdo Station, a science hub in Antarctica. There is an anomaly that may allow them a way back. Can they find their way back to one another? The premise is so wild but also wildly imaginative - could there be an under story? I will let you discover what that is. It is magnificent. It is very very ambitious. It is a little science-y and there is a story (an under story) that needs groundwork laid; be patient, I believe you will be rewarded.
As a novice reviewer, I am anxious, where to go from here. I do not like spoiler reviews, yet I want you to want to read this book. The book feels heavy and thoughtful. It’s a book you prepare to have time for, to ponder. Make time for this book, you will not regret it.
I am a Chloe Benjamin fan, she also knits, it is a long story but this shared hobby likely drew me closer to her. I saw her speak about her last book “The Immortalists” at a coffee shop, she spoke of knitting. I have knit with Chloe. Subsequently, I have observed her for years through social media building this novel. It has been nothing short of painstaking and a labor of love. I have been waiting for this. I am not sorry.
The story is so epic, bear with me, as I can’t do it justice. Eli and Laurel meet very late in high school. Each brilliant in their own right. They both become acclaimed in their field of science and eventually they find their way back to one another. They marry and have Silas. Tragedy strikes which changes the trajectory of their lives together. They separately end up at McMurdo Station, a science hub in Antarctica. There is an anomaly that may allow them a way back. Can they find their way back to one another? The premise is so wild but also wildly imaginative - could there be an under story? I will let you discover what that is. It is magnificent. It is very very ambitious. It is a little science-y and there is a story (an under story) that needs groundwork laid; be patient, I believe you will be rewarded.
As a novice reviewer, I am anxious, where to go from here. I do not like spoiler reviews, yet I want you to want to read this book. The book feels heavy and thoughtful. It’s a book you prepare to have time for, to ponder. Make time for this book, you will not regret it.
June 30, 2026
I’ve never read anything like this. I loveddd Under Story from start to finish. I can’t wait until everyone’s talking about this one!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is an incredibly ambitious book, unlike anything I've read before, that feels both intimate and cosmic. Under Story covers Antarctica, mycology and quantum physics, but also aging, love, memory, forgiveness and the ways our lives echo across time and space. It's heartbreaking, mind-bending and left me wanting to travel to McCurdo Station and across the duoverse. I can't remember the last time I enjoyed a book as much as this one, or the last time I stayed up until 2am reading because I couldn't put it down.
Highly recommend for fans of Nathan Hill's Wellness, Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone's This Is How You Lose the Time War and the A24 film Everything Everywhere All At Once.
Thank you to NetGalley and Headline for this eARC
Highly recommend for fans of Nathan Hill's Wellness, Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone's This Is How You Lose the Time War and the A24 film Everything Everywhere All At Once.
Thank you to NetGalley and Headline for this eARC
Read
March 1, 2026This book FUUuuCkkED with me!!!!!!!!!! I honestly feel like I went back in time I'm thirteen and just finished house of leaves. I gotta SIT on this but please read it when it comes out I will need 2 discuss with all
May 26, 2026
I was desperate to read this after loving the Immortalists so much and it didn’t disappoint. It was a wild ride of all kinds of science, parenthood, grief, time travel, and more. I could’ve done with slightly less science but would recommend for a super unique read.
February 17, 2026
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley and Putnam.
I really loved this book. I loved the science, I loved that I had to rethink how things might work, and I loved that I was constantly having to shift how I thought about the characters, their situations, and their reasons behind why they acted.
The story asks you to suspend a few beliefs, but gives you plausible reasons as to why you should do so. It's science fiction at its best because it makes you believe that maybe it really could be possible... while being grounded in fiction.
It's a story of loss, mistakes, regret, and love...and finding ourselves in the midst of all those things.
I really loved this book. I loved the science, I loved that I had to rethink how things might work, and I loved that I was constantly having to shift how I thought about the characters, their situations, and their reasons behind why they acted.
The story asks you to suspend a few beliefs, but gives you plausible reasons as to why you should do so. It's science fiction at its best because it makes you believe that maybe it really could be possible... while being grounded in fiction.
It's a story of loss, mistakes, regret, and love...and finding ourselves in the midst of all those things.
May 8, 2026
I really wanted to love this one. It’s beautifully written, with vivid, immersive descriptions of the natural world, especially in the Antarctica sections, which were my favorite. The book explores themes of grief, love, and our relationship to the planet in a way that felt sincere and thoughtful.
The first part completely pulled me in. Laurel is a compelling character, and the beauty and isolation of Antarctica creates such an atmospheric backdrop for the story.
For me, the novel lost some momentum in the second half as it leans more heavily into its speculative elements. I found those sections a bit harder to follow, and the logic didn’t always seem to make sense. While I could appreciate the ambition behind it, I had trouble staying fully immersed.
That said, I loved the character work throughout the novel, and there’s no denying Benjamin’s talent as an author. Even when it didn’t fully land for me, it was still an engaging and thought-provoking read.
In the end, while I didn’t love this book, I can definitely see it resonating with other readers, especially those drawn to science fiction with a speculative edge.
The first part completely pulled me in. Laurel is a compelling character, and the beauty and isolation of Antarctica creates such an atmospheric backdrop for the story.
For me, the novel lost some momentum in the second half as it leans more heavily into its speculative elements. I found those sections a bit harder to follow, and the logic didn’t always seem to make sense. While I could appreciate the ambition behind it, I had trouble staying fully immersed.
That said, I loved the character work throughout the novel, and there’s no denying Benjamin’s talent as an author. Even when it didn’t fully land for me, it was still an engaging and thought-provoking read.
In the end, while I didn’t love this book, I can definitely see it resonating with other readers, especially those drawn to science fiction with a speculative edge.
June 15, 2026
This book holds a story unlike any other I have ever read, and I was utterly captivated by each and every single page.
At its heart, it’s a story which explores how far you will go to reconnect with a loved one who you thought you’d lost forever…but not in any traditional sense. This story is incredible, mind-blowing, emotional, surreal and uniquely unconventional. It’s one I didn’t want to finish, but I was desperate to know how it would end.
The narrative follows the story of Laurel and Eli who are now divorced, but meet up again while working at the McMurdo research station in Antarctica. Laurel has noticed a pink glow in the sky - the Arc - and is convinced it can help them turn back the clock.
It’s a deep, intense, thought-provoking read which begins by delving into what has happened in Laurel and Eli’s past, and what has brought them to the coldest and windiest continent on earth. Laurel studies botany and plant ecology, while Eli is a physicist, and their colleagues play an important part in the story too.
I loved the wealth of knowledge this book contains - particularly what it’s like living at the base in Antarctica, and the wildlife there. It gives us a poignant look at the state our world is in, and explores how we can look after it better. It examines our own mortality, and the scientific world around us. We also read about Laurel and Eli’s studies in great detail.
While the first half of the book sets the scene, and reels us in, the second half takes us to an alternative reality. I don’t think a book has ever prompted me to stop and think about what I’m reading as much as this one did. It’s bold, it’s ingenious and I absolutely loved it!
I was sent a proof copy by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
At its heart, it’s a story which explores how far you will go to reconnect with a loved one who you thought you’d lost forever…but not in any traditional sense. This story is incredible, mind-blowing, emotional, surreal and uniquely unconventional. It’s one I didn’t want to finish, but I was desperate to know how it would end.
The narrative follows the story of Laurel and Eli who are now divorced, but meet up again while working at the McMurdo research station in Antarctica. Laurel has noticed a pink glow in the sky - the Arc - and is convinced it can help them turn back the clock.
It’s a deep, intense, thought-provoking read which begins by delving into what has happened in Laurel and Eli’s past, and what has brought them to the coldest and windiest continent on earth. Laurel studies botany and plant ecology, while Eli is a physicist, and their colleagues play an important part in the story too.
I loved the wealth of knowledge this book contains - particularly what it’s like living at the base in Antarctica, and the wildlife there. It gives us a poignant look at the state our world is in, and explores how we can look after it better. It examines our own mortality, and the scientific world around us. We also read about Laurel and Eli’s studies in great detail.
While the first half of the book sets the scene, and reels us in, the second half takes us to an alternative reality. I don’t think a book has ever prompted me to stop and think about what I’m reading as much as this one did. It’s bold, it’s ingenious and I absolutely loved it!
I was sent a proof copy by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
March 1, 2026
Ooh this is so good
This is a unique and interesting novel which tells the story of Laurel and Eli who are a divorced couple it starts in a very naturalistic way when Laurel takes a job in an Antarctic research post in an attempt to get away from an unhappy marriage. The setting is immediately interesting and the claustrophobia of spending a winter with no sunlight down in Antarctica. Is a good place to start a book.
It Soon becomes clear that there is an additional element to this Story as not far from the base camp. There is a strange light which appears to be emanating on in an unworldly fashion from deep in the Earth. her ex’s husband is a physicist and has been developing a theory of parallel universes and when he unexpectedly appears in the same place drawn by the same weird physical occurrence it seems natural that they would want to investigate without giving too much the plot away this investigation leads them to a parallel universe one in which time moves backwards in a mirror image of our own universe
There’s some very sad parts of this novel. The family have lost a small child to a drowning accident and this is described beautifully and very poignantly in a very heart breaking section
Of course this is a sci-fi novel but the author manages to mix sci-fi and reality perfectly at all feels like it makes sense and you can suspend your disbelief just enough to thoroughly enjoy the book
I Loved the ending
The authors writing style is clear, precise and flowing and it’s a very enjoyable Read. I’ve very much enjoyed the time.I spent
Immersed in the novel.
I’m aware of this author‘s previous novels, but I’ve not read them myself
I would recommend this novel to those who enjoy an intelligent cerebral sci-fi novel with added emotional undertones. if you enjoyed to paradise by Hannah, Yanagihara for example then you will enjoy those novels
I originally copy of the novel on NetGalley UK in return for an honest review. The book is published in the UK. i’m the 1st of September 2026 by Headline books.
This review will appear in NetGalley UK, StoryGraph, Goodreads and my book blog bionicSarahSbooks.Wordpress.com
After publication will also appear on Amazon UK and Waterstones
This is a unique and interesting novel which tells the story of Laurel and Eli who are a divorced couple it starts in a very naturalistic way when Laurel takes a job in an Antarctic research post in an attempt to get away from an unhappy marriage. The setting is immediately interesting and the claustrophobia of spending a winter with no sunlight down in Antarctica. Is a good place to start a book.
It Soon becomes clear that there is an additional element to this Story as not far from the base camp. There is a strange light which appears to be emanating on in an unworldly fashion from deep in the Earth. her ex’s husband is a physicist and has been developing a theory of parallel universes and when he unexpectedly appears in the same place drawn by the same weird physical occurrence it seems natural that they would want to investigate without giving too much the plot away this investigation leads them to a parallel universe one in which time moves backwards in a mirror image of our own universe
There’s some very sad parts of this novel. The family have lost a small child to a drowning accident and this is described beautifully and very poignantly in a very heart breaking section
Of course this is a sci-fi novel but the author manages to mix sci-fi and reality perfectly at all feels like it makes sense and you can suspend your disbelief just enough to thoroughly enjoy the book
I Loved the ending
The authors writing style is clear, precise and flowing and it’s a very enjoyable Read. I’ve very much enjoyed the time.I spent
Immersed in the novel.
I’m aware of this author‘s previous novels, but I’ve not read them myself
I would recommend this novel to those who enjoy an intelligent cerebral sci-fi novel with added emotional undertones. if you enjoyed to paradise by Hannah, Yanagihara for example then you will enjoy those novels
I originally copy of the novel on NetGalley UK in return for an honest review. The book is published in the UK. i’m the 1st of September 2026 by Headline books.
This review will appear in NetGalley UK, StoryGraph, Goodreads and my book blog bionicSarahSbooks.Wordpress.com
After publication will also appear on Amazon UK and Waterstones
June 5, 2026
I really loved the science fiction concept of this novel, to the point where I am still thinking about it to this day. Unfortunately, I felt like the execution fell flat for me.
After a divorce and a tragic event, Laurel, a scientist who specializes in fungi, moves to Antarctica to work in the kitchen and escape her life. During her time, she observes and is fascinated by a light streaming across the sky, called the Arc. To investigate the Arc, a group of physicists come, and *gasp* one of them is her ex-husband Eli. The rest of the story goes from there.
There are two halves of the story. The first half focuses on introducing the characters and learning about the science of the Arc and what it is. The first half of the book is extremely heavy on the scientific explanations and includes a lot of scientific jargon. I got a bit lost in all the science and I feel like it took away from the story. In the end of the first part, Eli and Laurel learn what the Arc is and embrace the consequences of it.
The second half of the story was a lot more enjoyable for me. You really get to see the relationship building between characters and also the growth of the characters throughout time. The complexities and emotions are beautifully shown through Chloe Benjamin's writing. The consequences of the Arc were super fascinating to me and I couldn't stop thinking about what would happen in my world if I went through something like this.
Overall, really cool and interesting story, I just got lost in the science and the length of the book. Thank you NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of this book!
After a divorce and a tragic event, Laurel, a scientist who specializes in fungi, moves to Antarctica to work in the kitchen and escape her life. During her time, she observes and is fascinated by a light streaming across the sky, called the Arc. To investigate the Arc, a group of physicists come, and *gasp* one of them is her ex-husband Eli. The rest of the story goes from there.
There are two halves of the story. The first half focuses on introducing the characters and learning about the science of the Arc and what it is. The first half of the book is extremely heavy on the scientific explanations and includes a lot of scientific jargon. I got a bit lost in all the science and I feel like it took away from the story. In the end of the first part, Eli and Laurel learn what the Arc is and embrace the consequences of it.
The second half of the story was a lot more enjoyable for me. You really get to see the relationship building between characters and also the growth of the characters throughout time. The complexities and emotions are beautifully shown through Chloe Benjamin's writing. The consequences of the Arc were super fascinating to me and I couldn't stop thinking about what would happen in my world if I went through something like this.
Overall, really cool and interesting story, I just got lost in the science and the length of the book. Thank you NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of this book!
February 18, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of Under Story by Chloe Benjamin
This was my first novel by Chloe Benjamin, and it won’t be my last. Under Story is an ambitious, layered work that weaves together climate science, family legacy and the quiet awe of the natural world.
Much of the novel centres on the research station in Antarctica, where scientists are studying fragile ecosystems at the edge of collapse. The depictions of fieldwork, ecological monitoring and the day-to-day realities of life at a remote research base feel authentic and immersive. As a biologist, I particularly valued the careful, well-embedded references to flora and fauna, evolutionary adaptation and environmental fragility. The science never feels superficial, it is integral to the emotional and thematic core of the story.
Running alongside the Antarctic research is the mystery of the “Arc” a strange, almost mythic phenomenon that hovers between scientific discovery and existential question. The characters are complex and quietly compelling, particularly those working on the research station, whose professional dedication sits in contrast to their personal uncertainties. The isolation of Antarctica sharpens their relationships and exposes their vulnerabilities, giving the novel both intellectual heft and emotional resonance.
The pacing is deliberate, but the atmosphere with stark landscapes, scientific inquiry and the slow unravelling of the Arc’s significance kept me fully engaged. It’s a novel that invites reflection rather than racing toward resolution.
A thoughtful, beautifully constructed exploration of science, climate and human connection. A very strong four-star read.
This was my first novel by Chloe Benjamin, and it won’t be my last. Under Story is an ambitious, layered work that weaves together climate science, family legacy and the quiet awe of the natural world.
Much of the novel centres on the research station in Antarctica, where scientists are studying fragile ecosystems at the edge of collapse. The depictions of fieldwork, ecological monitoring and the day-to-day realities of life at a remote research base feel authentic and immersive. As a biologist, I particularly valued the careful, well-embedded references to flora and fauna, evolutionary adaptation and environmental fragility. The science never feels superficial, it is integral to the emotional and thematic core of the story.
Running alongside the Antarctic research is the mystery of the “Arc” a strange, almost mythic phenomenon that hovers between scientific discovery and existential question. The characters are complex and quietly compelling, particularly those working on the research station, whose professional dedication sits in contrast to their personal uncertainties. The isolation of Antarctica sharpens their relationships and exposes their vulnerabilities, giving the novel both intellectual heft and emotional resonance.
The pacing is deliberate, but the atmosphere with stark landscapes, scientific inquiry and the slow unravelling of the Arc’s significance kept me fully engaged. It’s a novel that invites reflection rather than racing toward resolution.
A thoughtful, beautifully constructed exploration of science, climate and human connection. A very strong four-star read.
June 29, 2026
Under Story was phenomenal. I went into this a little unsure but the Antarctica bit grabbed me. An unexplainable glowing arc forms near McMurdo station and has the scientists stumped. Laurel is pretty newly divorced and unsure of what to do next when she takes a job at McMurdo. A few months after arriving, her exhusband, Eli, a physicist, shows up to study the arc. The two puts their heads together and start discussing a theory Eli always had of a duoverse. Could the arc be a portal?
At times, the duoverse concept/life was a bit confusing, but I think it’s because it’s not what we are used to in our universe. The story itself was great. Well written, loved the characters, the plot, all of it. It wrapped up nicely but I was sad that it ended. Really a great read.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for access to this ARC.
At times, the duoverse concept/life was a bit confusing, but I think it’s because it’s not what we are used to in our universe. The story itself was great. Well written, loved the characters, the plot, all of it. It wrapped up nicely but I was sad that it ended. Really a great read.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for access to this ARC.
April 29, 2026
This book had be in a chokehold. I didn’t read it fast, because I didn’t want it to end. On days when I didn’t read it, I still thought about it. It’s a story of love and loss. It’s a journey, an expedition or maybe an adventure. It’s beautiful. (But just to add, very science heavy. I’ve learnt loads of fascinating things about plant life, climate change, scientific developments, particals, dark matter). I would highly recommend this book, but don’t devour it, take your time to appreciate it. 🩷
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What seems like a love story gone wrong, destroyed by the 'what ifs' of grief, flips and becomes an extremely complex science fiction novel, packing in more than I ever needed or wanted to know about the biology of fungi, and the physics of neutrinos!
At times the story of Laurel, and her sometimes-husband Eli becomes a little complex, and I am trusting the accuracy of the author in her references and timelines, but that is what is needed to create a world so different from our own, but with enough similarities to stimulate our imagination to other universes where the rules we are bound by are polar opposites.
I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of life on the Antarctica base.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you to Headline Books and Tinder Press. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
At times the story of Laurel, and her sometimes-husband Eli becomes a little complex, and I am trusting the accuracy of the author in her references and timelines, but that is what is needed to create a world so different from our own, but with enough similarities to stimulate our imagination to other universes where the rules we are bound by are polar opposites.
I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of life on the Antarctica base.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you to Headline Books and Tinder Press. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 14, 2026
I really wanted to love this, but it fell flat for me. The concept was great, but I found myself getting super hung up on some of the science and how things worked at times. I don’t want to say too much because I don’t want to give spoilers, but there are points sheer my brain just could wrap around some of the specifics of how things/people were moving through life and it really took me out of the story.
February 8, 2026
Under story by Chloe Benjamin. Thanks NetGalley, publisher and especially the author for the arc. Such a stunningly beautiful story filled with love and loss and heartbreak. What would you do to fix your relationship? Written with depth so you can visualise everything. Gorgeous. Loved everything about this book, the characters weren’t perfect which makes it all the more special to read.
February 8, 2026
Under Story is a very ambitious and obviously required enormous amounts of research for the author. Fortunately for Chloe Benjamin, her hard work paid off in this beautiful, thought provoking novel. The author explores grief, love, loneliness and friendship in a way that gets under your skin.
I read this last month and knew very little about it other than part of the book takes place at McMurdo Station in Antarctica. I’m glad I had no prior knowledge of the plot and hadn’t read any reviews. It took a week or so of thinking back on this book after I’d finished it to determine my true feelings on it. It’s brilliant, at times confusing, at times heartbreaking but ultimately hopeful and I’m so grateful that I was able to read it. It’s completely different than anything I’ve read before. At first, the science was intimidating but the author delivers the information in a way that makes it understandable to someone without degrees in physics, botany or mycology (thank goodness or I would have been lost!) It’s not a quick read by any means, being over 500 pages in length, but it’s beautifully written and I was sad to see it end.
Highly recommend. It’s one of my favorite books of the past few years.
Thanks to Netgalley, Putnam and Tinder Press for the eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
I read this last month and knew very little about it other than part of the book takes place at McMurdo Station in Antarctica. I’m glad I had no prior knowledge of the plot and hadn’t read any reviews. It took a week or so of thinking back on this book after I’d finished it to determine my true feelings on it. It’s brilliant, at times confusing, at times heartbreaking but ultimately hopeful and I’m so grateful that I was able to read it. It’s completely different than anything I’ve read before. At first, the science was intimidating but the author delivers the information in a way that makes it understandable to someone without degrees in physics, botany or mycology (thank goodness or I would have been lost!) It’s not a quick read by any means, being over 500 pages in length, but it’s beautifully written and I was sad to see it end.
Highly recommend. It’s one of my favorite books of the past few years.
Thanks to Netgalley, Putnam and Tinder Press for the eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A beautifully woven story of love, loss, and the lengths one will go to survive heartbreak. This engaging science fiction journey explores what a couple is willing to do to heal. The author creates a deeply layered main character in Laurel, whose emotional depth makes it easy to connect with her experiences. While the story is lengthy and richly detailed—at times making it easy to get lost in the science—the emotional weight and thought-provoking themes more than make up for it. Overall, this book delivers a powerful, reflective experience and earns a solid four-star rating that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my unbiased review.
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I agree with other reviewers that it's best to go into this book blind, so I won't give too much of a synopsis!
I really wanted to like this book more than I did, and I found the concept fascinating and truly mind-bending. Unfortunately, I think the switch-up about halfway through made the second half of the book really drag for me, and certain parts stretched the limits of my imagination (but maybe this is a me problem). I would probably give the first third 5 stars, the second or so third 3 stars, and the last third 2 stars. Ultimately giving it 2.5 stars rounded up to a 3!
This is clearly a very well-researched book with ambitious ideas; unfortunately, I think the author wrote herself into a corner which made the second half feel slow and stilted for me. I also felt the ending didn't deliver, although the set-up did give the author room to explore some philosophical concepts. Still, I really admire the scope and scale of what she tried to do, and I applaud that she was able to write such complex and interesting characters in such interesting settings.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
I really wanted to like this book more than I did, and I found the concept fascinating and truly mind-bending. Unfortunately, I think the switch-up about halfway through made the second half of the book really drag for me, and certain parts stretched the limits of my imagination (but maybe this is a me problem). I would probably give the first third 5 stars, the second or so third 3 stars, and the last third 2 stars. Ultimately giving it 2.5 stars rounded up to a 3!
This is clearly a very well-researched book with ambitious ideas; unfortunately, I think the author wrote herself into a corner which made the second half feel slow and stilted for me. I also felt the ending didn't deliver, although the set-up did give the author room to explore some philosophical concepts. Still, I really admire the scope and scale of what she tried to do, and I applaud that she was able to write such complex and interesting characters in such interesting settings.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
March 23, 2026
Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for this ARC electronic copy.
I was more than half way through this book
but I just couldn’t finish it. The premise of the book caught my attention, an alternative life found through a mysterious portal near the research camp at the South Pole. When the alternate life was a “backwards” world in which time reversed and “old” people were born to their children I gave up. Just not for me. Although I was fascinated by the study of the female scientist in this world - the study of fungus that learned from its previous “life” , whether this was true or not it was interesting. Maybe others will enjoy but just too far out there for me.
I was more than half way through this book
but I just couldn’t finish it. The premise of the book caught my attention, an alternative life found through a mysterious portal near the research camp at the South Pole. When the alternate life was a “backwards” world in which time reversed and “old” people were born to their children I gave up. Just not for me. Although I was fascinated by the study of the female scientist in this world - the study of fungus that learned from its previous “life” , whether this was true or not it was interesting. Maybe others will enjoy but just too far out there for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 17, 2026
Under Story is one of the most unique and mesmerising books I’ve ever read, a book that comes along once in a lifetime, sparks an a new energy in you and fires into your synapses.
I would expect no less from Chloe Benjamin, I loved The Immortalists by her, still often think about it and recommend it to family and friends; and Under Story surpassed every expectation I had of it.
We follow Laurel, a fungi scientist, from her early childhood into adulthood and back again, as she deals with the aftermath of the worst possible tragedy. Now divorced, she decides to move to an outpost in Antarctica, where a mysterious Arc has appeared in the sky, shimmering green and pink.
But Laurel seemingly cannot escape from her life or grief, as her ex-husband Eli unexpectedly arrives to Antarctica to research the Arc among his fellow physicists.
Laurel and Eli reconnect and reminisce, leading them to take a leap of faith that will change the course of their lives forever.
From here we enter the mind-bending phase of the novel - explaining it further will spoil the fun - but trust me when I say you will never guess where this is going.
Beautifully written, heartfelt and touching, Under Story explores themes of grief, humanity, sciences, environment, and the fleeting nature of all that surrounds us. It will make your brain hurt in the best possible way, and will leave you with a new appreciation for life.
Chloe Benjamin is, in my opinion, on par with Donna Tartt and deserves all the same kind of hype.
Please add this to you TBR immediately
I would expect no less from Chloe Benjamin, I loved The Immortalists by her, still often think about it and recommend it to family and friends; and Under Story surpassed every expectation I had of it.
We follow Laurel, a fungi scientist, from her early childhood into adulthood and back again, as she deals with the aftermath of the worst possible tragedy. Now divorced, she decides to move to an outpost in Antarctica, where a mysterious Arc has appeared in the sky, shimmering green and pink.
But Laurel seemingly cannot escape from her life or grief, as her ex-husband Eli unexpectedly arrives to Antarctica to research the Arc among his fellow physicists.
Laurel and Eli reconnect and reminisce, leading them to take a leap of faith that will change the course of their lives forever.
From here we enter the mind-bending phase of the novel - explaining it further will spoil the fun - but trust me when I say you will never guess where this is going.
Beautifully written, heartfelt and touching, Under Story explores themes of grief, humanity, sciences, environment, and the fleeting nature of all that surrounds us. It will make your brain hurt in the best possible way, and will leave you with a new appreciation for life.
Chloe Benjamin is, in my opinion, on par with Donna Tartt and deserves all the same kind of hype.
Please add this to you TBR immediately
June 18, 2026
The premise of this book drew me in instantly, and I absolutely loved the first section. The exploration of grief and motherhood was beautifully done and brought me to tears more than once. Chloe Benjamin is clearly a talented writer, and I often found myself appreciating her way with words.
That said, this is an ambitious novel, and at over 500 pages, I felt it could have benefited from a much tighter edit. The pacing was uneven throughout—some sections felt overly drawn out, while others seemed to skip over years of time so quickly that I occasionally found myself confused and trying to reorient myself in the story.
There is also a significant amount of scientific information woven into the narrative. Early on, I didn’t mind it but after a while I found it excessive and, in my opinion, didn’t add enough to justify the space it occupied. For much of the novel, I hovered between a 3 or 4 star rating because I was genuinely captivated by the concept. Ultimately, though I would have a hard time recommending this book to many readers.
One final thought: if this ever gets adapted for the screen, I would love to see Tim Burton direct it. The strange, dreamlike atmosphere feels perfectly suited to his style.
That said, this is an ambitious novel, and at over 500 pages, I felt it could have benefited from a much tighter edit. The pacing was uneven throughout—some sections felt overly drawn out, while others seemed to skip over years of time so quickly that I occasionally found myself confused and trying to reorient myself in the story.
There is also a significant amount of scientific information woven into the narrative. Early on, I didn’t mind it but after a while I found it excessive and, in my opinion, didn’t add enough to justify the space it occupied. For much of the novel, I hovered between a 3 or 4 star rating because I was genuinely captivated by the concept. Ultimately, though I would have a hard time recommending this book to many readers.
One final thought: if this ever gets adapted for the screen, I would love to see Tim Burton direct it. The strange, dreamlike atmosphere feels perfectly suited to his style.
June 22, 2026
How does one gather any sort of coherent thoughts about this epic and sweeping literary science fiction triumph!? This book has everything. Environmental themes. Multi-universes. A love story. Motherhood. Guilt and fears and regrets. Redemption and healing. SCIENCE. Mushrooms. Trees. Physics. Speculation. The list goes on.
And listen, I learned more about fungi and Antartica and physics that I had ever planned to when I reading this book, but I’m also not mad about it. 🤣 All of the science and heady stuff is so rooted in LIFE. In connection. And it felt very human. Essential and fundamental.
This book was an absolute mind BENDER (there’s a four letter word that starts with F that I want to use, but I will refrain lol). It felt like a fever dream. It was also haunting and magical. I had so many whys and hows along the way. I lost count of how many times I had to stop reading just to mentally work out HOW everything worked. Seriously the world-building was so impressive. There are some aspects that will never leave me and will continue to haunt me.
Ok, so yes. This book was five stars for me. But I don’t think it will work for everyone. It is LONG. And it is serious. This book is for the reader who likes a heavier, more intellectual sort of read. It is extremely thought-provoking. It demands to be discussed. And ultimately, I found it to be SO impressive and extremely satisfying.
And listen, I learned more about fungi and Antartica and physics that I had ever planned to when I reading this book, but I’m also not mad about it. 🤣 All of the science and heady stuff is so rooted in LIFE. In connection. And it felt very human. Essential and fundamental.
This book was an absolute mind BENDER (there’s a four letter word that starts with F that I want to use, but I will refrain lol). It felt like a fever dream. It was also haunting and magical. I had so many whys and hows along the way. I lost count of how many times I had to stop reading just to mentally work out HOW everything worked. Seriously the world-building was so impressive. There are some aspects that will never leave me and will continue to haunt me.
Ok, so yes. This book was five stars for me. But I don’t think it will work for everyone. It is LONG. And it is serious. This book is for the reader who likes a heavier, more intellectual sort of read. It is extremely thought-provoking. It demands to be discussed. And ultimately, I found it to be SO impressive and extremely satisfying.
June 30, 2026
Some books are hard to review without giving away the very things that make them so special, and The Understory is one of them.
Parts of this book completely bent my mind. I found myself thinking about certain parts and Benjamin is completely brilliant about making the impossible plausible. I loved the science-y parts of the story, especially everything about mushrooms and McMurdo Station in Antarctica.
This is a long book, but it really needs to be to cover everything. You need that time to deal with the characters as they experience the heartbreak of losing parents, children, and the people they love. The emotional weight in this story is HEAVY!
I also loved how thoughtfully Benjamin imagined the Antiverse. Even the ideas about a world with less technology felt carefully reasoned and incredibly believable. I’m trying to recall how people sounded on a landline! The amount of detail she put into this world is incredible.
This isn’t a quick read, but if you enjoy having your mind bent in a story that explores grief, love, science, and big ideas, this is a book worth taking your time with.
Parts of this book completely bent my mind. I found myself thinking about certain parts and Benjamin is completely brilliant about making the impossible plausible. I loved the science-y parts of the story, especially everything about mushrooms and McMurdo Station in Antarctica.
This is a long book, but it really needs to be to cover everything. You need that time to deal with the characters as they experience the heartbreak of losing parents, children, and the people they love. The emotional weight in this story is HEAVY!
I also loved how thoughtfully Benjamin imagined the Antiverse. Even the ideas about a world with less technology felt carefully reasoned and incredibly believable. I’m trying to recall how people sounded on a landline! The amount of detail she put into this world is incredible.
This isn’t a quick read, but if you enjoy having your mind bent in a story that explores grief, love, science, and big ideas, this is a book worth taking your time with.
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