CRUSH

Robyn Maryke deftly delivers this exploration of a woman's journey into polyamory. The narrator, who never reveals her name, begins the story with recollections of the times her husband, Paul, encouraged her to flirt with and maybe kiss other men. As a wife, she reflects on her role in their marriage, while as a spiritual person, she grapples with moral discomfort as Paul continues to advocate for a polyamorous relationship. In response, the narrator begins an email correspondence with an old friend, David, in which she must navigate the complex emotions of love and infatuation. Maryke effectively conveys the narrator's trepidation. She adds to the initial thrill with upbeat pacing and inflection and slows the story when the narrator struggles with her multiple relationships. S.K.G. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: APRIL 2025]