Skip to main content

Member Reviews

This was so nostalgic and beautifully written. I could’ve confused this for an actual memoir. Couldn’t put down and can’t wait for this to come out so I can make all of my friends read it. Thanks Carleton Books for the early copy!

Was this review helpful?

This is the kind of propulsive narrative you can't put down, but ironically, you will also want to slow down to enjoy every beautiful and profound sentence. It's a magical mix of prose and plot, and I found myself underlining every other sentence. I kept wanting to Google the characters' names because I was so convinced they had to be real people--that's how vivid Isabel's characterization is. I loved the protagonist, Amber, and I rooted for her on every page. Banta made the world of '90s popstars come alive in a way that made the plights relatable, and yet, I also felt like I was constantly learning something new. It made me appreciate how badly we have treated women in the spotlight. I think we all owe women like Amber an apology.

BACK TO THE SENTENCES. Banta is a powerhouse of a writer. I would read her grocery lists. I truly believe she is a once-in-a-generation talent and will become the biggest break-out writer of this year. Do me a favor and buy this book so we can talk about it. The fact that this is Banta's debut novel is awe-inspiring. I can't wait to read everything she continues to write forever.

Was this review helpful?