"Told in alternating perspectives that deftly interweave past and present, Something Wild is a magnetic, unflinching portrait of the bond between sisters, as well as a psychologically acute exploration of the legacy of divorce, the ways trauma reverberates over generations, and how it might be possible to overcome the past"-- Provided by publisher
In a gripping portrait of a tumultuous relationship, Leah Kempler meets Charlie Nelson in a grocery store, sparking an immediate and intense connection. Charlie's grand proclamations of love and big feelings captivate Leah, but his life raises red flags—he's older yet lives with his parents, meets friends at odd hours, and often appears unwell. He reveals his past as a recovering heroin addict, assuring Leah he will never use again. Despite her friends and family's concerns, Leah becomes increasingly isolated in a relationship marked by manipulation and denial. As Charlie's erratic behavior escalates, making Leah feel unsafe, she remains convinced that their bond is destined. Charlie's boyish charm and vulnerability blind Leah to his spiraling self-destruction, as her own pain and longing for connection deepen. The narrative explores the complexities of love and codependence, highlighting Leah's struggle to reconcile her desire for intimacy with the harsh realities of her relationship. With aching vulnerability, the author delves into the chasm between perception and truth, crafting an intoxicating story about one woman's journey with an addict and her quest for love and wholeness.