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Limbo
“Odd, gentle, beautiful, enchanting. A light tale of discovery, change, and dubious redemption; all wrapped into the tale of a block party like no other.”
Alyse died and she isn’t happy about it. She finds herself stuck in a ghost town occupied by dead souls with whom she has nothing in common. Her reaction to her loneliness and isolation is to throw a neighborhood block party for her little outpost in the afterlife. In the course of her party-planning, Alyse experiences a series of revelations about herself and other people—lessons she had failed to learn while alive—which leave her happier and wiser at the end of the story.
From Booklife (Publisher's Weekly):
"Koerber weaves a slow, captivating exploration of life, death, and the place of kindness and forgiveness in the salvation of the spirit."
From a reader:
“The story is simply an odd and gentle book. I loved the characters. This is a book to read when you want to get away from the noise and anger of current events and politics.
Somehow I felt lighter at the end of the book even though I would have liked it to continue on.”
From Diane Donovan of Midwest Review:
Readers seeking an uplifting afterlife saga that offers a winning brush against life's ironies and inconsistencies, and an attention to building characters who face Limbo in different ways, will enjoy this enchanting, light tale of discovery, change, and dubious redemption; all wrapped into the tale of a block party like no other.”
From a reader: "Don’t expect shootouts, high romance or secret missions. Do expect a thoughtful, entertaining, gently challenging book that will stay with you"
From a reader: A highly allegorical tale. From a Buddhist perspective, each character is an archetype that can be found in all of us, suffering from our self-inflicted skewed perspectives. The lesson that all sentient beinngs have value is a common one. Dean (the dog in the story) is the finder of souls in the desert--very Old Testiment. He might be the Buddha. The beauty of good literature is in the varied responses it provokes. Tell Laura that I enjoyed the book. Thomas Merton would enjoy it as well.
Alyse died and she isn’t happy about it. She finds herself stuck in a ghost town occupied by dead souls with whom she has nothing in common. Her reaction to her loneliness and isolation is to throw a neighborhood block party for her little outpost in the afterlife. In the course of her party-planning, Alyse experiences a series of revelations about herself and other people—lessons she had failed to learn while alive—which leave her happier and wiser at the end of the story.
From Booklife (Publisher's Weekly):
"Koerber weaves a slow, captivating exploration of life, death, and the place of kindness and forgiveness in the salvation of the spirit."
From a reader:
“The story is simply an odd and gentle book. I loved the characters. This is a book to read when you want to get away from the noise and anger of current events and politics.
Somehow I felt lighter at the end of the book even though I would have liked it to continue on.”
From Diane Donovan of Midwest Review:
Readers seeking an uplifting afterlife saga that offers a winning brush against life's ironies and inconsistencies, and an attention to building characters who face Limbo in different ways, will enjoy this enchanting, light tale of discovery, change, and dubious redemption; all wrapped into the tale of a block party like no other.”
From a reader: "Don’t expect shootouts, high romance or secret missions. Do expect a thoughtful, entertaining, gently challenging book that will stay with you"
From a reader: A highly allegorical tale. From a Buddhist perspective, each character is an archetype that can be found in all of us, suffering from our self-inflicted skewed perspectives. The lesson that all sentient beinngs have value is a common one. Dean (the dog in the story) is the finder of souls in the desert--very Old Testiment. He might be the Buddha. The beauty of good literature is in the varied responses it provokes. Tell Laura that I enjoyed the book. Thomas Merton would enjoy it as well.
- GenresFantasyParanormalFiction
156 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 29, 2017
3 people are currently reading
249 people want to read
About the author
Laura Koerber
18 books248 followersI live on a island in the Puget Sound with my husband and my dogs. I am a retired teacher, presently doing in -home care for disabled people while volunteering at a dog rescue
My degree is in art, and I am a painter, graphic artist, and ceramic sculptor. The writing started about five years ago, a surprise to me and everyone who knows me, since I had never written anything before.
The review for my first book in Kirkus Review: https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-re...
I think I learned to write by reading. I am a voracious omnivore of books.
My degree is in art, and I am a painter, graphic artist, and ceramic sculptor. The writing started about five years ago, a surprise to me and everyone who knows me, since I had never written anything before.
The review for my first book in Kirkus Review: https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-re...
I think I learned to write by reading. I am a voracious omnivore of books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
August 3, 2018
I picked this up because I like this author. I have read a few of her other works and have always left them with a sense of self-assurance of sorts. This authors writing just makes me feel good. It's hard to explain.
Although the writing here is still strong as always, this story however just didn't really go anywhere.
There really was not much in the way of an actual story-line. No real plot or conclusion or drama that one would normally find.
I kept reading simply because I was expecting more to happen....yet I was not disappointed having read this by any means.
Although the writing here is still strong as always, this story however just didn't really go anywhere.
There really was not much in the way of an actual story-line. No real plot or conclusion or drama that one would normally find.
I kept reading simply because I was expecting more to happen....yet I was not disappointed having read this by any means.
December 11, 2017
Limbo – a run down village with little shacks, set in a beautiful wandering prairie. The inhabitants have time on their hands and little to do. There are some great characters, all with their own unfortunate stories to tell, all of them trying to understand why they have ended up stuck where they are. Well written, posing some interesting questions – Limbo is certainly worth a read.
May 11, 2018
Wow! Laura Koerber is deservedly a prize-winning author. Her writing is clean and subtle. She shows instead of tells, so the words seem to disappear as the reader loses themselves in the story.
We are immediately attentive as Trey floats in air, his legs dangling. And we get that he is a ghost. Gradually we see that his friend, Alyse, is also a ghost, newly dead. The two occupy a ghost town of about 30 souls on a prairie that never changes as one day follows the next.
We follow roughly 12 ghosts, most of whom suffer loneliness and boredom. They have only their memories and attitudes to ponder. And they wonder, where is God? Does God really exist? And why are they in Limbo instead of Heaven or Hell? And how do they get to Heaven? Does it really exists?
In their unchanging environment, even with its own mysteries, the ghosts evolve in their outlooks. Koerber's writing doesn't shout. With adept subtlety, she keeps the characters straight in our minds, and with the same adeptness, she shows us the changing attitudes and an outcome that satisfies.
Without explosive drama, Koerber keeps us engaged, eager to read the next chapter and the next as we explore each character, their attitudes and memories. We are left, thoughtful, and looking forward to more stories by Koerber.
We are immediately attentive as Trey floats in air, his legs dangling. And we get that he is a ghost. Gradually we see that his friend, Alyse, is also a ghost, newly dead. The two occupy a ghost town of about 30 souls on a prairie that never changes as one day follows the next.
We follow roughly 12 ghosts, most of whom suffer loneliness and boredom. They have only their memories and attitudes to ponder. And they wonder, where is God? Does God really exist? And why are they in Limbo instead of Heaven or Hell? And how do they get to Heaven? Does it really exists?
In their unchanging environment, even with its own mysteries, the ghosts evolve in their outlooks. Koerber's writing doesn't shout. With adept subtlety, she keeps the characters straight in our minds, and with the same adeptness, she shows us the changing attitudes and an outcome that satisfies.
Without explosive drama, Koerber keeps us engaged, eager to read the next chapter and the next as we explore each character, their attitudes and memories. We are left, thoughtful, and looking forward to more stories by Koerber.
June 21, 2018
Laura Koerber's Limbo is not your usual story. Sixteen-year-old Alyse finds herself in a strange afterlife following dying from cancer. It is an in between place where nothing really happens, and no real answers are forthcoming. The inhabitants of Limbo, a disparate collection of people, inhabit a ghost town on the prairie, and attempt to make sense of their situation or at least to endure it.
Koerber's characterisations of the different ghosts, such as Alyse, Jack, Trey, Lily, the Preacher, the Chinese woman, the Naked man, etc with their different approaches to their situations, their search for explanations or connection, and their reflections on the events of their lives are intriguing. The description of the ghost town and the prairie is evocative and beautiful. One source of humour is that the ghosts wear the clothes (or lack of them) they died in.
There are perhaps some hints as to why the ghosts are caught in this 'waiting room' existence, their self-absorption, lack of self-awareness and tendency to blame or complain (which to some extent reminds me of C S Lewis’ Great Divorce - a story set in purgatory, also presented as a town). Yet, like the ghosts themselves, I felt the story drifted with the occasional eruption of drama and no real resolutions. The message seems to be make the most of what you have, without regret, but also about acceptance and the importance of connecting. Apart from the absence (and the need) of eating and drinking or, presumably, other physical pleasures, I puzzled over why the story needed to be set in the afterlife, except perhaps that it allowed the author to bring together characters that wouldn't normally interact, and gave then stretches of time to think and react in.
A whimsical and thoughtful story in which nothing much happens.
Koerber's characterisations of the different ghosts, such as Alyse, Jack, Trey, Lily, the Preacher, the Chinese woman, the Naked man, etc with their different approaches to their situations, their search for explanations or connection, and their reflections on the events of their lives are intriguing. The description of the ghost town and the prairie is evocative and beautiful. One source of humour is that the ghosts wear the clothes (or lack of them) they died in.
There are perhaps some hints as to why the ghosts are caught in this 'waiting room' existence, their self-absorption, lack of self-awareness and tendency to blame or complain (which to some extent reminds me of C S Lewis’ Great Divorce - a story set in purgatory, also presented as a town). Yet, like the ghosts themselves, I felt the story drifted with the occasional eruption of drama and no real resolutions. The message seems to be make the most of what you have, without regret, but also about acceptance and the importance of connecting. Apart from the absence (and the need) of eating and drinking or, presumably, other physical pleasures, I puzzled over why the story needed to be set in the afterlife, except perhaps that it allowed the author to bring together characters that wouldn't normally interact, and gave then stretches of time to think and react in.
A whimsical and thoughtful story in which nothing much happens.
December 16, 2021
Limbo is a very thought provoking book. That is down to earth and beautiful in its own way. I have to say I have never read a book like this and I truly enjoyed it. This book raises so many questions and does not answer them by the end. Usually that would have me upset but that felt perfect for this book. I actually felt peace and a lightness after reading it.
After 16 year old Alyse dies of brain cancer she finds herself in a ghost town that is quite literally occupied by ghosts. Everyone there calls the town limbo. Because they are presumably stuck in-between the living and the afterlife they expected. No one knows why they're in Limbo, how to leave it or why their afterlife is filled with strangers or people they dislike.
This book takes us on a beautiful journey of self discovery, acceptance and making the best out of a less than ideal situation. The multiple points of view allows the reader to join many characters on their discovery of growth and acceptance. For me this book was about finding peace within yourself and with the people around you. This is a must read!!!
After 16 year old Alyse dies of brain cancer she finds herself in a ghost town that is quite literally occupied by ghosts. Everyone there calls the town limbo. Because they are presumably stuck in-between the living and the afterlife they expected. No one knows why they're in Limbo, how to leave it or why their afterlife is filled with strangers or people they dislike.
This book takes us on a beautiful journey of self discovery, acceptance and making the best out of a less than ideal situation. The multiple points of view allows the reader to join many characters on their discovery of growth and acceptance. For me this book was about finding peace within yourself and with the people around you. This is a must read!!!
December 20, 2021
This book was truly beautiful from start to finish, I found the author did a wonderful job in creating this beautiful story, the story really came to life along with the thoughts and emotions it had brought on. It was emotional times, and truly beautiful in all that it is and was. Wonderful book and story!
I was very moved by the concept of the story. A character dies, and acceptance came rather difficult for her. She meets others through out her journey and the feelings and emotions she felt were real and true I defiantly felt. I was very involved with the story and the characters it held. I could not let go of this story. I loved how easily the story flowed and how I felt as I read it. I found acceptance brings on a certain tranquility most of us don't have when someone passes, even if its a long time after. The story was wonderful, I really loved it. I do highly recommend this book. This book was a eye opener for me and gave me a lot to think about as well as my emotions. It is a truly remarkable story, not one to be missed!
Loved this book as well as the emotions and thoughts I revived. It was a journey I took as well as the characters and truly gave me a lot to think on and wonder about. It made me feel my own tranquility within my heart, and I loved how the author did this and created this. I loved their their books they have created as well, this one was just as wonderful. Highly recommend this book, it truly is a rare read!
I was very moved by the concept of the story. A character dies, and acceptance came rather difficult for her. She meets others through out her journey and the feelings and emotions she felt were real and true I defiantly felt. I was very involved with the story and the characters it held. I could not let go of this story. I loved how easily the story flowed and how I felt as I read it. I found acceptance brings on a certain tranquility most of us don't have when someone passes, even if its a long time after. The story was wonderful, I really loved it. I do highly recommend this book. This book was a eye opener for me and gave me a lot to think about as well as my emotions. It is a truly remarkable story, not one to be missed!
Loved this book as well as the emotions and thoughts I revived. It was a journey I took as well as the characters and truly gave me a lot to think on and wonder about. It made me feel my own tranquility within my heart, and I loved how the author did this and created this. I loved their their books they have created as well, this one was just as wonderful. Highly recommend this book, it truly is a rare read!
December 22, 2021
This is a wonderfully written and original novel with a unique and intriguing storyline, which caught my attention and held it from start to finish. Sixteen year old Alyse died and found herself in ‘limbo’. In this story ‘limbo’ is literally a ghost town, whose residents are all deceased. Being sixteen she feels she has nothing in common with any of the other occupants in the afterlife she has found herself in. Feeling lonely and isolated she decides to throw a neighbourhood block party. Whilst planning this party she gets to know the other people better and a series of revelations about both herself and the others, lead her to realise things she did not learn whilst alive. Alyse also discovers more about herself and by the end of the story is happier and wiser.
This is definitely an odd read but one that I could not put down. The descriptive narrative really brought ‘limbo’ vividly alive, making me feel immersed in the story. However, it was the strange mix of quirky characters that really made the story for me. Each character had their own backstory and you got little glimpses into their lives before they died. Although you are not told why any of them are in ‘limbo’, you do get some clues in their backstories. Alyse was a great main character who was both likeable and relatable. An engaging read which left me with many questions, and I was left thinking about the storyline long after I had finished the book.
This is definitely an odd read but one that I could not put down. The descriptive narrative really brought ‘limbo’ vividly alive, making me feel immersed in the story. However, it was the strange mix of quirky characters that really made the story for me. Each character had their own backstory and you got little glimpses into their lives before they died. Although you are not told why any of them are in ‘limbo’, you do get some clues in their backstories. Alyse was a great main character who was both likeable and relatable. An engaging read which left me with many questions, and I was left thinking about the storyline long after I had finished the book.
August 11, 2018
Overall
The unique characters are the strength of this story. Alyse appears to be the primary character but many other supporting characters (Lily, Trey, etc. - even a dog named Dean). Each character is very unique and has a story of their death worthy of attention. That is where it starts to break down for me.
Like the limbo they are stuck in - the plot takes a while to form and isn't concrete. Instead it relies on the reader to draw their own conclusions. At least in part. After introducing so many characters, it feels incomplete to only resolve a part of the established character plots. If this was part of a series (addressing other characters trapped in limbo) I'd feel differently but this appears to be the only one, so the ending (or non-ending) left this book feeling incomplete. Which if was part of a series would be a good thing - because I was curious to read more.
A major draw back is the constant head hoping. Although it appears the story is meant to primarily follow Alyse, we get glimpses at other ghosts trapped in limbo and then we get Point of View (POV) switches that zigzag back and forth. These POV swaps confuse the narrative.
The major plus for me was the overarching theme. I liked its overall tone that we live in the worlds we make for ourselves. We can accept what we are handed or we can change it. A powerful message and a redeeming aspect because it makes one think!
Rating
3 stars
Thought provoking although slow novella with unique characters. Take a trip to limbo and see the world Alyse decides to build for herself.
Where did I get it?
The author provided a copy to me. This is a voluntary review. More reviews at creatingworldswithwords.wordpress.com.
The unique characters are the strength of this story. Alyse appears to be the primary character but many other supporting characters (Lily, Trey, etc. - even a dog named Dean). Each character is very unique and has a story of their death worthy of attention. That is where it starts to break down for me.
Like the limbo they are stuck in - the plot takes a while to form and isn't concrete. Instead it relies on the reader to draw their own conclusions. At least in part. After introducing so many characters, it feels incomplete to only resolve a part of the established character plots. If this was part of a series (addressing other characters trapped in limbo) I'd feel differently but this appears to be the only one, so the ending (or non-ending) left this book feeling incomplete. Which if was part of a series would be a good thing - because I was curious to read more.
A major draw back is the constant head hoping. Although it appears the story is meant to primarily follow Alyse, we get glimpses at other ghosts trapped in limbo and then we get Point of View (POV) switches that zigzag back and forth. These POV swaps confuse the narrative.
The major plus for me was the overarching theme. I liked its overall tone that we live in the worlds we make for ourselves. We can accept what we are handed or we can change it. A powerful message and a redeeming aspect because it makes one think!
Rating
3 stars
Thought provoking although slow novella with unique characters. Take a trip to limbo and see the world Alyse decides to build for herself.
Where did I get it?
The author provided a copy to me. This is a voluntary review. More reviews at creatingworldswithwords.wordpress.com.
May 23, 2020
I wasn’t sure what I thought of this book at first. A teenager, Alyse, finds herself in Limbo after dying of a brain tumor. It’s a dismal place, populated by rather dreary ghosts like herself. The pov doesn’t stay with Alyse, and though I found this distracting for a couple of chapters, as the story progressed, I got to know this odd community, the characters’ backstories, their hopes, dreams, failures, and sorrows. Suddenly, they became deeply human, relatable, and utterly poignant. I was moved.
The world-building details are unique, clever, and enjoyable. For example, many of the characters are wearing hospital gowns (and many of us know that those don’t close securely in the back). They make poker cards out of peeling wallpaper, and have a tendency to float.
Most of the characters don’t understand why they’re in limbo or how to leave. Honestly, I didn’t understand why they were there either, and I didn’t think that question was answered by the end. For me, the lack of a reason for their presence made God (who is not a character in the story) seem cold and unkind. The end is incredibly touching. I recommend this short, well-written, and gentle read to anyone who enjoys a human story.
The world-building details are unique, clever, and enjoyable. For example, many of the characters are wearing hospital gowns (and many of us know that those don’t close securely in the back). They make poker cards out of peeling wallpaper, and have a tendency to float.
Most of the characters don’t understand why they’re in limbo or how to leave. Honestly, I didn’t understand why they were there either, and I didn’t think that question was answered by the end. For me, the lack of a reason for their presence made God (who is not a character in the story) seem cold and unkind. The end is incredibly touching. I recommend this short, well-written, and gentle read to anyone who enjoys a human story.
December 22, 2021
Alyse is a young lady of seventeen and she is dead, but she isn’t happy, she is stuck in a village of other ghosts, it is in the middle of nowhere and more like something you would find in the wild west than the afterlife. Alyse misses her family, her friends and her life, but she feels isolated despite being surrounded by the other dead, so she decides that she wants to get to know them all a bit more.
One day, when the boredom and loneliness has become too much, Alyse decides to throw a party for the outposts inhabitants and asks for help from some of them too, however, as she makes the arrangements and encourages the others to join in, but will it be a success or a failure? Along the way, Alyse realises some things about herself which realign her thinking, but will the lessons improve or hamper her existence in Limbo?
This is a new take on the subject of life after death in a place where people are thrown together and have to try to make the best of the situation they find themselves in.
One day, when the boredom and loneliness has become too much, Alyse decides to throw a party for the outposts inhabitants and asks for help from some of them too, however, as she makes the arrangements and encourages the others to join in, but will it be a success or a failure? Along the way, Alyse realises some things about herself which realign her thinking, but will the lessons improve or hamper her existence in Limbo?
This is a new take on the subject of life after death in a place where people are thrown together and have to try to make the best of the situation they find themselves in.
December 13, 2021
3.5 Stars
Limbo by Laura Koerber is a story of discovery- with a combination of the supernatural, some spirituality, life lessons, revelations, exploring the afterlife, touring the in-between (Limbo), quirky characters, and plenty of originality.
I have come to expect the unexpected from this author, and this story is definitely unique. We get a front row seat to all the goings-on in Limbo (yes, THE ‘Limbo’)- only, who knew it was actually a ghost town, literally. When Alyse dies and gets stuck in Limbo she ends up on a bit of a journey of discovery, along with other residents of Limbo. What ensues made for a unique read. The story is told from multiple POV’s which were a little confusing and distracting at times- and left me with a few questions. But, overall, the story and characters kept me interested enough to want to see what happens in the end.
I wonder what she has in store for us next?
Thank you, Laura Koerber!
Limbo by Laura Koerber is a story of discovery- with a combination of the supernatural, some spirituality, life lessons, revelations, exploring the afterlife, touring the in-between (Limbo), quirky characters, and plenty of originality.
I have come to expect the unexpected from this author, and this story is definitely unique. We get a front row seat to all the goings-on in Limbo (yes, THE ‘Limbo’)- only, who knew it was actually a ghost town, literally. When Alyse dies and gets stuck in Limbo she ends up on a bit of a journey of discovery, along with other residents of Limbo. What ensues made for a unique read. The story is told from multiple POV’s which were a little confusing and distracting at times- and left me with a few questions. But, overall, the story and characters kept me interested enough to want to see what happens in the end.
I wonder what she has in store for us next?
Thank you, Laura Koerber!
December 8, 2021
3.5 stars
This is one unusual story that is original and a lot different. I am unsure on the genre, is it a book with Christianity or is it a book about the supernatural? The author gives us a look into a town called Limbo and its inhabitants that seem to be stuck. It is a town that is only home to those of the ghost variety. We learn of their lives and deaths, their regrets and anger, their loves and loss, their sorrow and grief. But is only a small look at them. There was no real direction to the story, there is no moving on, no light to take them somewhere else. It is a story of the afterlife but where no one knows other than Limbo. Are they there because they were not good enough to go to the pearly gates or are they there because they are not worthy of the fiery after life of hell? Whilst the characters are entertaining there is just so much that is just unanswered.
This is one unusual story that is original and a lot different. I am unsure on the genre, is it a book with Christianity or is it a book about the supernatural? The author gives us a look into a town called Limbo and its inhabitants that seem to be stuck. It is a town that is only home to those of the ghost variety. We learn of their lives and deaths, their regrets and anger, their loves and loss, their sorrow and grief. But is only a small look at them. There was no real direction to the story, there is no moving on, no light to take them somewhere else. It is a story of the afterlife but where no one knows other than Limbo. Are they there because they were not good enough to go to the pearly gates or are they there because they are not worthy of the fiery after life of hell? Whilst the characters are entertaining there is just so much that is just unanswered.
December 22, 2021
4 Stars
I read this in one sitting as it's a very short quick read and when it ended I was really confused. I guess like all books you read you know that that last page is going to clear everything up for you. I either missed that happening, or it didn't happen with this one. This was a really good read though and I enjoyed the whole idea of this storyline. I have not read other books yet by this author but I do plan to because the writing was amazing. I had a clear picture in my head of the town and each of the characters. It felt calm and thought provoking all the way through. My 4 stars are only based on wanting more I think. I didn’t have that satisfied feeling of closure at the end.
I will be looking into other books by this author based on the writing that I very much enjoyed in this one!
I read this in one sitting as it's a very short quick read and when it ended I was really confused. I guess like all books you read you know that that last page is going to clear everything up for you. I either missed that happening, or it didn't happen with this one. This was a really good read though and I enjoyed the whole idea of this storyline. I have not read other books yet by this author but I do plan to because the writing was amazing. I had a clear picture in my head of the town and each of the characters. It felt calm and thought provoking all the way through. My 4 stars are only based on wanting more I think. I didn’t have that satisfied feeling of closure at the end.
I will be looking into other books by this author based on the writing that I very much enjoyed in this one!
December 23, 2021
This story was beautiful and thought provoking in its own way. When I first picked up this book I picked it up purely based on the cover and the synopsis on the back. But I soon found myself flipping through the pages to see what happened with these amazing characters. While this novel is only 156 pages our author really knows how to pull her readers in and keep them interested until the very end. The characters are amazing,the plot was thought provoking, and the story as a whole was just beautiful. Alyse is a young girl who feels like her life has been taken away from her as she floats through Limbo. Trey is an older man who thinks his death was an accident, but was it? These two will oddly become friends and throw a fun party for all of their other ghost friends that are stuck in limbo. But can they really be happy? Can this party make them feel better about being stuck in limbo? You'll have to read this beautiful novel to find out for yourself.
December 8, 2021
I enjoyed this book. This is a story that is written with a lot of emotion as well as heart. The characters bring out emotions throughout the story. They are connectable and truly made the story for me. I enjoyed being pulled into the story by Alyse and her story. She dies and is not happy about it. She finds herself in a town of dead souls but also finds herself lonely so she decides to throw a party. This is where her story picks up. She learns lessons about things that she didn’t when she was alive. This is a great story that I really enjoyed. It is engaging and fast paced. It has great growth throughout and the characters are creative. This is a great pick up and I highly recommend it.
January 11, 2019
The writing in this story was well done, and the anecdotes about the characters were entertaining. The story doesn't really have much in the way of a plot, and doesn't really go anywhere. That seems to be intentional. For myself, I like a story that has an end goal. The story itself is a look into the life of several ghosts, Alyse, in particular, and the way they interact with each other. Not all the ghosts are human, some are animals, and they live together in a kind of limbo, thus the title, that is neither heaven nor hell. Someone who enjoys a light read that takes a look into the hearts and minds of several characters would like this story.
December 12, 2021
Limbo was not what I expected when I read the summary of the book. I almost expected a story about Alyse just entering Limbo and having to discover why she was there. The real story was better! Alyse and her village had to learn together how to make the most of what happened to them. Although Alyse was the lead character, my favorite was TheNakedMan. He had to learn how to be accepted, but he did so with cows. I do wish the book went into more detail of each of the characters and their backstories. This was a good, quick read!
December 21, 2021
The cover and topic in this novel greatly caught my interest and I could not wait to start reading it.
After dying, Alyse finds herself in a deserted town surrounded by souls. What does she do with her loneliness? Throw a block party of course!
But in the midst of planning the party, she learns about herself in ways that she was unable to do while still alive.
Words really can not describe this novel. It is short but it leaves a lasting impression.
I definitely do not want to give too much of the details aways, such as what Alyse learns, but I do highly suggest reading it.
After dying, Alyse finds herself in a deserted town surrounded by souls. What does she do with her loneliness? Throw a block party of course!
But in the midst of planning the party, she learns about herself in ways that she was unable to do while still alive.
Words really can not describe this novel. It is short but it leaves a lasting impression.
I definitely do not want to give too much of the details aways, such as what Alyse learns, but I do highly suggest reading it.
January 22, 2019
This book follows the afterlife of a number of ghosts stuck in limbo. Things really get going when a newcomer arrives to the ghost village. Of course, a lot of the story revolves around the question of why the spirits are stuck in Limbo as even the ghosts have no idea why they are there.
The characters were well done, although I feel more could have been done with the plot. The writing was good and overall, I enjoyed the story.
The characters were well done, although I feel more could have been done with the plot. The writing was good and overall, I enjoyed the story.
December 16, 2021
This is definitely quite an odd book to read as there is no set storyline to it. The author just seems to meander through the book with the help of a few characters. And yet it works. You don't really miss not having that typical structure. You find yourself caught up in the story anyway and wandering along with it. I enjoy the range of different characters in the book and how they all felt unique. This is a strangely enjoyable read that I would recommend.
February 19, 2019
This short book pulled me in and kept me interested from beginning to end. Here was this group of diverse strangers thrown together into a sort of wan, wild-west existence, a place between life and some 'great beyond'. Was this the beyond? They didn't know. Should they hang around for the long term? But where else would they go? Should they try to make friends, even though everyone was so different and they would never hang out with each other under normal circumstance? All good questions that it was fun to explore in this story.
The rules of the world made for some good, if rather dark, humor. And there were some fun surprises about how it all worked.
I greatly enjoyed the short studies of each character living in limbo. I thought the people were well drawn and an interesting bunch. There were lots of little insights into each person, which I enjoyed.
The ending was subtle and yet really quite satisfying. A great short story that left me feeling introspective.
The rules of the world made for some good, if rather dark, humor. And there were some fun surprises about how it all worked.
I greatly enjoyed the short studies of each character living in limbo. I thought the people were well drawn and an interesting bunch. There were lots of little insights into each person, which I enjoyed.
The ending was subtle and yet really quite satisfying. A great short story that left me feeling introspective.
December 17, 2021
Limbo is just that, not heaven, not hell, just some perpetual in between. I honestly very much enjoyed this book. It was short, but very well done for its length. I would absolutely recommend, and would read more by this author.
December 23, 2021
This novel was a fresh take on the existence of ghosts. I don’t think I have ever wondered if a ghost had feelings or ever felt like they were missing out on something so the novel Limbo opened my eyes to new questions and new possibilities. It made me think which is always good. I enjoyed the book and will look for more from this author.
May 30, 2018
This is a short book that’s well worth the read. I found it to be a really interesting concept. I’ve read books about people going on to the afterlife. A few in heaven, or hanging around here as ghosts, and a bunch about going to “the bad place”, but this was new.
Limbo is just that. Limbo. There is nothing to do, nowhere to go. You’re stuck in a ramshackle town, with people that you didn’t know in life and have no connection to. What to do? The author does a great job in detailing what some of them end up doing, the little things that they try to get through day after day after day of…nothing.
It’s sad in parts, funny in others and keeps pulling you along.
If I had one criticism, it would be a small one. Some of the dialogue is a little stilted, mostly because of the non-use of contractions. “I have seen” rather than “I’ve seen”, that type of thing. But that is a nit-picky complaint that won’t ruin your enjoyment of this book.
Give this one a try. You’ll be glad you did.
Limbo is just that. Limbo. There is nothing to do, nowhere to go. You’re stuck in a ramshackle town, with people that you didn’t know in life and have no connection to. What to do? The author does a great job in detailing what some of them end up doing, the little things that they try to get through day after day after day of…nothing.
It’s sad in parts, funny in others and keeps pulling you along.
If I had one criticism, it would be a small one. Some of the dialogue is a little stilted, mostly because of the non-use of contractions. “I have seen” rather than “I’ve seen”, that type of thing. But that is a nit-picky complaint that won’t ruin your enjoyment of this book.
Give this one a try. You’ll be glad you did.
October 2, 2021
A kind and heartwarming Listen
Rounding up to 4-stars
My Full Review →
Rounding up to 4-stars
My Full Review →
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August 26, 2018From BookLife (Publisher's Weekly:
Koerber (The Dog Thief and Other Stories) paints a quietly sweet portrait of the afterlife through a series of interconnected vignettes. Trey, a middle-aged Texan, and Alyse, the youngest and most recent arrival in Limbo, spend most of their days in their small, unnamed town playing poker in Lily’s run-down saloon and floating aimlessly around on “walks.” Like many of the inhabitants of Limbo, Alyse has many questions about why she ended up where she is, as well as a multitude of regrets about her past life. Over time, the reader is introduced to the rest of the town: the Preacher, known only by his title and his loose understanding of the Bible; the garden-loving Chinese Lady, isolated from her white neighbors by an impassible language barrier; Lily, the self-proclaimed mistress of the saloon and a shameless card shark; Warren, a sardonic ex-professor; and Warren’s dog, Dean. At first the white characters’ racism sometimes seems to be supported by the narrative, but this is mitigated later on as each nonwhite character narrates a chapter and is portrayed as a full person with flaws and desires. Koerber weaves a slow, captivating exploration of life, death, and the place of kindness and forgiveness in the salvation of the spirit.
Koerber (The Dog Thief and Other Stories) paints a quietly sweet portrait of the afterlife through a series of interconnected vignettes. Trey, a middle-aged Texan, and Alyse, the youngest and most recent arrival in Limbo, spend most of their days in their small, unnamed town playing poker in Lily’s run-down saloon and floating aimlessly around on “walks.” Like many of the inhabitants of Limbo, Alyse has many questions about why she ended up where she is, as well as a multitude of regrets about her past life. Over time, the reader is introduced to the rest of the town: the Preacher, known only by his title and his loose understanding of the Bible; the garden-loving Chinese Lady, isolated from her white neighbors by an impassible language barrier; Lily, the self-proclaimed mistress of the saloon and a shameless card shark; Warren, a sardonic ex-professor; and Warren’s dog, Dean. At first the white characters’ racism sometimes seems to be supported by the narrative, but this is mitigated later on as each nonwhite character narrates a chapter and is portrayed as a full person with flaws and desires. Koerber weaves a slow, captivating exploration of life, death, and the place of kindness and forgiveness in the salvation of the spirit.
May 7, 2018
“Limbo” by Laura Koerber
Beautiful -Weird
This is a book that will stay in my head for a long time. It was peculiar, beautiful, gentle, well crafted and well, weird. I mean that word to stand as a compliment, as that’s how it’s intended. I love when a writer crafts an entire place I’ve never been to before, with it’s own curious rules and conventions, and then populates it with a fascinating, quirky cast of characters and mysteries. And that feeling of weird, that this other-worldly place might just really exist, is so fragile and hard to achieve that when an author does it, it always makes me stop and take a pause.
The book follows the story of Alyse, who’s struggling to come to terms with her arrival in the Limbo of the title. And even that journey is surprising.
Don’t expect shootouts, high romance or secret missions. Do expect a thoughtful, entertaining, gently challenging book that will stay with you.
Superb 5*.“Limbo” by Laura Koerber
Beautiful -Weird
This is a book that will stay in my head for a long time. It was peculiar, beautiful, gentle, well crafted and well, weird. I mean that word to stand as a compliment, as that’s how it’s intended. I love when a writer crafts an entire place I’ve never been to before, with it’s own curious rules and conventions, and then populates it with a fascinating, quirky cast of characters and mysteries. And that feeling of weird, that this other-worldly place might just really exist, is so fragile and hard to achieve that when an author does it, it always makes me stop and take a pause.
The book follows the story of Alyse, who’s struggling to come to terms with her arrival in the Limbo of the title. And even that journey is surprising.
Don’t expect shootouts, high romance or secret missions. Do expect a thoughtful, entertaining, gently challenging book that will stay with you.
Superb 5*.“Limbo” by Laura Koerber
February 14, 2025
It was a very odd story which I found difficult to get to grips with in places, probably because it isn't my genre or style. I think a story that is set in the afterlife is in itself quite a sensitive topic, because it involves death and loss and moving on. Because of this, it's the reason why it was a tricky read for me overall.
July 20, 2018
First off, let me say I liked this a lot.
Stripped down to its very basic elements it is the story of Alyse, a sixteen year old girl, coming to grips in a new environment. It just happens that new environment is limbo, and she and every one in town is dead.
What is limbo? That is briefly asked then moved on.
Why are they there? Again asked and moved on.
As far as a classic story goes, there isn't one. However, it still worked.
Most of the credit for it working goes to the writing. Koerber does a great job in showing the familiar, yet unfamiliar environment of Limbo. Which amplifies the emotions which are the same very familiar, yet wholly unfamiliar.
Alyse's feelings are something anyone who has been sixteen can relate to. Having to adjust to an environment where things almost make sense, you can almost see the intent behind it, but any time you start digging farther what you thought falls apart.
“Yes we are all gray, but some of us are more transparent than others.” While this was a insult about the preacher wanting to continue the racial status quo that existed in life, it was a great description of the characters. No villains with swirly mustaches, no pure of heart heroes, just people with both good and bad in them, some more transparent about it than others.
In the end this story somehow reflects real life more than a story about real life. That is why it worked for me.
Stripped down to its very basic elements it is the story of Alyse, a sixteen year old girl, coming to grips in a new environment. It just happens that new environment is limbo, and she and every one in town is dead.
What is limbo? That is briefly asked then moved on.
Why are they there? Again asked and moved on.
As far as a classic story goes, there isn't one. However, it still worked.
Most of the credit for it working goes to the writing. Koerber does a great job in showing the familiar, yet unfamiliar environment of Limbo. Which amplifies the emotions which are the same very familiar, yet wholly unfamiliar.
Alyse's feelings are something anyone who has been sixteen can relate to. Having to adjust to an environment where things almost make sense, you can almost see the intent behind it, but any time you start digging farther what you thought falls apart.
“Yes we are all gray, but some of us are more transparent than others.” While this was a insult about the preacher wanting to continue the racial status quo that existed in life, it was a great description of the characters. No villains with swirly mustaches, no pure of heart heroes, just people with both good and bad in them, some more transparent about it than others.
In the end this story somehow reflects real life more than a story about real life. That is why it worked for me.
July 8, 2018
A New & Unique Approach to Life After Death
Laura Koerber’s Limbo may or may not be the Limbo of the Christian afterlife, but many of its residents believe it is. Dressed--or in some cases, undressed--as they died, the ghostly residents of this small town bear the baggage of the lives they left behind. Some harbor regrets; others, grief or anger. Some died very young, while others passed after long, full lives. It is a mystery to all of them why they have wound up where they are.
Koerber’s characters are detailed and lifelike, and I found many of them relatable. My favorites were Lily, with her cards and her rage that her abusive husband found his way to the same place as she, and Warren, with his analytical approach to the world in which he has found himself.
The writing is smooth and pleasant to read, as well as impressively well-edited. I found no typos at all, which I find unusual even among books from large mainstream publishers.
Limbo is not a tale about good behavior earning some eternal reward, but about forgiving oneself and finding peace. It could be said that it’s where all souls go to make peace with the lives they left behind. Gentle and ambiguous, with an ending that’s open to interpretation, Limbo is a short, relaxing, and thoroughly unique read.
Laura Koerber’s Limbo may or may not be the Limbo of the Christian afterlife, but many of its residents believe it is. Dressed--or in some cases, undressed--as they died, the ghostly residents of this small town bear the baggage of the lives they left behind. Some harbor regrets; others, grief or anger. Some died very young, while others passed after long, full lives. It is a mystery to all of them why they have wound up where they are.
Koerber’s characters are detailed and lifelike, and I found many of them relatable. My favorites were Lily, with her cards and her rage that her abusive husband found his way to the same place as she, and Warren, with his analytical approach to the world in which he has found himself.
The writing is smooth and pleasant to read, as well as impressively well-edited. I found no typos at all, which I find unusual even among books from large mainstream publishers.
Limbo is not a tale about good behavior earning some eternal reward, but about forgiving oneself and finding peace. It could be said that it’s where all souls go to make peace with the lives they left behind. Gentle and ambiguous, with an ending that’s open to interpretation, Limbo is a short, relaxing, and thoroughly unique read.
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