Caitlin Hicks’ premiere novel is exquisite, spellbinding and lyrical. The story is compelling, with Hicks masterfully putting the reader right into the scene. It was hard to put down. The themes in A Theory of Expanded Love are universal and the story is captivating. I laughed out loud, I cried!
“The main character, Annie Shea, is endearing in many ways, not just because of her teenage angst. Hicks takes us through Annie’s journey which is the same one that many of us take when we are coming of age or transitioning through any important milestone in life. Annie’s quest for the Truth, grappling with secrets, and persistence in claiming her voice remind us of common struggles that we face as humans. We then get to experience Annie surmounting these challenges when her focus rises beyond herself to come to terms with her inner demons and to serve others. In this, we are reminded about the importance of loyalty, compassion and commitment to those who are most important to us.
“I recommend A Theory of Expanded Love without hesitation or reservation. It’s an inspiring must-read and I’m excited to see where this takes Caitlin Hicks.”
-Dr. Lolly de Jonge, Calgary, Alberta
“The novel is simultaneously fascinating and heartbreaking.
“My heart took a beautiful journey with Annie who tells her story of growing up in a large Catholic family. Annie repeatedly reveals the hypocrisies surrounding religion, faith, love, and human actions in her raw and honest story-telling. Annie is curious, hilarious, tender, and Naval Brass strong as she forges ahead to reconcile a confusing world – often contrasted by strict military and religious rules against the natural laws of the human heart. Annie’s story is familiar and we are reminded of important life lessons – and that love triumphs in the end!”
– Julia Chester, Assistant Professor, Psychological Sciences
My favourite read of the summer!
Dear Caitlin, I bought a copy of A Theory Of Expanded Love after your show here in Madeira Park. During the current “pause” I had the chance to dive into it, and am I ever glad I did…. it was my favourite read of the summer! So insightful and full of humour.
I recently discovered your podcasts and enjoyed Next Of Kin so much. There were connections there to a personal experience visiting an uncle’s grave in the Canadian War Cemetery in Holten, Netherlands. Best wishes to you and yours for a happy holiday season!
-Joanne Mauro, December 2020
I needed a laugh!
Hi there Caitlin, Happy New Year to you! I’ve been thinking of you recently and wondering how you are. I re-read your book A THEORY OF EXPANDED LOVE when I was in quarantine a few months ago– I needed a laugh! – Nyrie Waddell, January 3, 2021
