This book is a very subtle and very Australian offering from Queensland writer Joanne Horniman. From the outset, the protagonist invites the reader to listen to a very personal tale; a story of life, love, sex and death told in the most languid of tones. The text is very feminine in its recount and feeds off a literary heritage steeped in the Victorian novel: highlighted by its tendency to romantically embellish daily events. Littered through the book are references to notable works of literature and authors, helping the reader to reach the protagonist on an equal footing. Oscar Wilde is often a silent partner to Sophie, a young mother learning to balance university, work and motherhood while still trying to piece together the fragmented memories her own past. Setting is important in this work-evident from the intimate details in the prologue where the reader walks with the protagonist through the streets of Lismore. Place itself becomes a character, helping to move the plot along. This story is foremost about love: sexual, sisterly and maternal. It is not a story for those readers who desire fast-paced action. It is instead a story that is gentle and tranquil, that will appeal to the lover within. Recommended for ages 15 and over.

Fiona Edwards is an editor, journalist and teacher

This review from Australian Bookseller & Publisher magazine is reproduced by kind permission of Thorpe-Bowker, a division of R R Bowker LLC. © Copyright 2008, Thorpe-Bowker

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