The Otherlife

The Otherlife explores the tumultuous friendship between Ben and Hobie, revealing dark impulses and tragic consequences that haunt their lives.

In The Otherlife, the story unfolds around Ben, a quiet and troubled boy who finds himself at Cottesmore House, an elite school for the wealthy and privileged. Here, he befriends Hobie, a charismatic yet dangerous bully whose charm masks a dark side. Hobie's upbringing, marked by indulgence and high expectations, shapes him into a figure both alluring and menacing. As Ben navigates the complexities of their friendship, he becomes drawn into Hobie's world, which is steeped in myth and violence. Ben begins to experience unsettling visions of gods and monsters, including the trickster Loki, whose mischief mirrors the chaos in his own life.

As the narrative progresses, tragedy strikes when Ben learns of the mysterious death of someone dear to him, reigniting his doubts about Hobie's influence. The bond between the two boys becomes increasingly fraught as Ben grapples with the possibility that Hobie's wild nature may have contributed to the loss. The haunting imagery of The Otherlife serves as a backdrop to the exploration of darker impulses that reside within us all, making readers question the fine line between friendship and danger.

Ultimately, The Otherlife is a richly imaginative tale that delves into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. It challenges the reader to confront their own inner demons while navigating the complexities of relationships formed in the shadow of privilege and power.