Mareike Fallwickl

This autumn, Austrian bestselling author Mareike Fallwickl finally comes to Kampnagel to read from her latest novel. Following the success of her previous novels, "Haltet euch fest" is a radical declaration of love for friendship, chosen families, and lifestyles beyond the norm: Luzia grows up in a shared household that embraces platonic forms of love and alternative concepts of family. Later, as a theater director, she tries to challenge patriarchal structures and create change for the better. Her childhood friend, who develops a strong desire for a child in her early forties, chooses a path beyond dating and romantic relationships with men. After a major storm, their harmonious way of living is threatened. How can chosen families like Luzia’s endure in times like these? Fallwickl moves along themes of friendship, love, and community, weaving together some of the most pressing questions of our time: what happens when women stop orienting themselves around men, and instead prioritize friendship - and ultimately themselves? The book tells of a form of love that is not tied to a romantic partnership, but exists in many forms and flourishes wherever people care for one another.