What is your opinion?
Heartbreaking, but with moments of hope
"I was so impressed by this book. It follows a group of sex workers in Georgia, USA in the 1990s. Different sections are told in the voices of different characters as their lives interweave and grow apart in various ways. And the whole book is made up of short pieces or vignettes. The effect is a little like a montage where more and more about the characters and the setting are gradually revealed. The result could have been disjointed or confusing, but it’s not in the slightest. It takes a delicate balancing act to make this approach work, and the author does it with aplomb. It’s not just the stylistic elements that make this book so memorable. The characters inhabit a tough and often brutal world. Some scenes are harrowing, some heartbreaking. But there are also moments of hope and tenderness as the characters support and take strength from each other. This book has a big heart, even as it drags you through the mire. Highly recommended – although do note the content warnings."
A poetic, emotional journey
"This incredible story of intersecting lives is so thoughtfully and beautifully rendered. It almost seemed to unfold in movements. Not just acts, but entire movements, with well executed character and tonal shifts. I think I felt every emotion possible! I'm so impressed with the way the author wove these stories together as if they're all a part of something much bigger than themselves while typically focused on themselves. Watching the characters move into and out of each other's lives as they move through their own, was fascinating. It's clear to me that a lot of care was taken in the orchestration of this story, including some very difficult subject matter. I'm going to be thinking about this one for awhile."
