Hardcover

I liked this book just fine, but I should have loved it. I guess I didn't vibe with the writing. This is satirical, but I think I might have needed that amped up a notch.

I've read reviews that say there's only one (intentionally) likeable character, but I suppose I didn't feel that way. These characters are flawed and disingenuous, but I didn't really dislike them, other than Jeremy, AKA The Catch. I think these are women we're supposed to write off as vapid, but they're also all women with plans and agency.

The contestants seem pretty “redeemable,” if redemption is needed – but without spoiling, we all know there's no time for all that. Still, in a book where the tone and length prohibits too much depth and growth, there are moments that still hint at more nuance and complexity.

The flaws are very human flaws exacerbated by the reality show environment and reality show culture, and by a society that rewards certain behaviors.

There's a love story woven through out this that we know ends in loss, and that's extremely poignant. This operates on it's own level outside of the satire. Whatever other antics, the author takes seriously the concept of sapphic women having place to belong.

I watch reality shows, but more Housewives than dating competitions, but I'm still familiar with the culture, and the way shows are discussed. It's shocking how well Samantha Allen channels those discussions, the usual suspects, the low-key combativeness and air of superiority. Unnerving.

Our story becomes very gory toward the end, but due to the tone it's more of a detached grossness. Viscera without being visceral. The tone kept the scary at a distance, too, but that's okay. I don't presume to know what scares other people, but I think I can confidently say not too many people will be checking the locks and trembling under their covers/.

I think “Patricia” might grow on me more over time, since I dreamed about it, and that usually denotes staying power.

Patricia Wants to Cuddle

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