“Milk Fed” Author Melissa Broder Returns with “Empty and Marvelous” — Read an Excerpt! (Exclusive)

**A Cosmic Exploration of Grief: Melissa Broder’s Upcoming Novel Empty and Marvelous**

Melissa Broder, acclaimed author known for works such as *Milk Fed*, is set to release her latest novel, *Empty and Marvelous*, next spring, a poignant blend of humour and tragedy centred around the complexities of grief and love. Scheduled to be published by Scribner, the book follows a Los Angeles writer grappling with the suicide of her ex-boyfriend, Emil, a figure who shaped much of her creative life.

The narrative unfolds as the protagonist learns of Emil’s untimely death while she is already navigating the complications of her current marriage. Emil not only served as the muse for her celebrated erotic novel but also became a source of tension in her relationship with her husband. To cope with her tumultuous emotions, the writer seeks solace in a familiar place: her favourite branch of Ralphs supermarket. However, as she begins receiving messages and suggestive texts that appear to be from Emil, she starts questioning the finality of his departure.

Broder describes *Empty and Marvelous* as a work that “has comedic and tragic sides.” The origins of this ambitious project are as unconventional as its themes; Broder recounts that the novel began with a vivid dream of filming a baked beans commercial in an empty supermarket, a scenario that encapsulates both laughter and tears. This imagery reflects the paradox of life, where moments of extraordinary joy can coexist with profound sadness.

The author’s previous works, which include novels like *Death Valley* and *The Pisces*, and the essay collection *So Sad Today*, have consistently demonstrated her ability to approach serious themes—particularly mental health—through a comedic lens. In this latest book, Broder seeks to illuminate the impact of suicide on those left behind, exploring the heaviness of grief intertwined with the lighter aspects of existence.

In a conversation about the novel, Broder delves into her interpretation of angels, describing them as messengers that permeate our lives in unexpected ways. “The word ‘angel’ comes from the ancient Greek word ‘angelos,’ which simply means messenger. There are angels everywhere, and you never know who will deliver an important message in life,” she reflects. This perspective becomes particularly poignant as the supermarket setting serves as a hub for significant revelations and encounters, underscoring the connection between the mundane and the extraordinary.

The narrative doesn’t shy away from stark realities, beginning with a resonant excerpt that captures the protagonist’s internal struggle. The writer contemplates whether all is indeed well in her life, an affirmation that represents both hope and denial. This internal dialogue reveals the layers of her character, showcasing an intriguing blend of self-reflection and vulnerability.

As the protagonist embarks on a journey through her emotions—ranging from quiet moments of epiphany to the chaotic memories of her past with Emil—the reader is invited to share in the complexities of loss. The discovery that Emil had been reported missing, portrayed through stark visuals, leaves a lasting impact on her psyche and highlights the severity of mental health issues.

The shift from imagining Emil leading a happy life to confronting the grim reality of his fate encapsulates the human experience of grappling with grief. Broder illustrates, with deft precision, how fond memories can coexist with an unsettling void, ultimately leading the protagonist—and the reader—through a labyrinth of reflection and resignation.

*Empty and Marvelous* is not just a novel about loss; it also encapsulates the myriad ways individuals cope with trauma and the connective fibres that exist between happiness and sorrow. With a release date set for May 4, 2027, anticipation for Broder’s latest creation is already building, promising readers a journey that is as enlightening as it is emotional.

As a testament to Broder’s insightful storytelling, *Empty and Marvelous* is expected to resonate with anyone who has navigated the delicate balance between joy and despair, reaffirming the notion that amid life’s upheavals, moments of clarity and connection can emerge even in the most unconventional of places. Pre-orders are currently available across various platforms, making it accessible to readers eager to delve into this cosmic exploration of art, loss, and the enduring manifestations of love.