Well
- 288 pages
- 11 hours of reading
Critically acclaimed, this astonishing debut novel features a singular voice set primarily in the working-class suburb of Federal Way, Seattle. Presented as interlinked short stories, it explores the lives of a diverse cast of characters grappling with darkness and despair. They seek relief and connection through sex, drugs, violence, and visions of both Apocalypse and Creation, yearning for a way into the light. The narrative ultimately rises toward hope, showcasing the human capacity for resilience. The stories delve into the complexities of relationships and personal struggles. In "BURLESQUE," couples face turmoil during a pivotal SuperSonics game, revealing jealousy and violence. "MODERN COLOR" follows a troubled teenager navigating addiction and strained family dynamics. Other narratives depict a phone sex patron's indecision, a warehouse worker's tragic love story, and the fallout of reckless decisions among friends. Characters like Charlie, a lonely bartender, and a young man grappling with pain and addiction, illustrate the quest for meaning amid chaos. The collection culminates in poignant reflections on love, loss, and the haunting specter of violence, all while maintaining a powerful undercurrent of hope and the possibility of redemption. This mesmerizing work establishes the author as a bold new voice in American fiction.
