Ahmed Nemreen Nemreen itibaren Karagöl Köyü, 46700 Karagöl Köyü/Pazarcık/Kahramanmaraş, 土耳其
Everything I like about novels is in this novel. The HBO films adaptation more than disappointed me. In part this is because the book was so perfect I can't understand trying to recreate its characters and setting, but also because its casting was confusing.
What an odd (and slightly awkward?) book to be given by my step-mother.... Apparently it's quite well-known within certain circles, as is the author. As usual I'm intrigued by books that deal with cultures I know nothing about. I knew nothing about the sexual nightlife of expats in Thailand. And now I know at least a little something more. So, success! The author does develop some interesting characters by switching between perspectives of both protagonists and observers. He seems to try to show a variety of relationships based around the sex work and clublife in Thailand, although I have no idea how accurate the portrayal is. There are a few twists and turns in the story since the book starts with Joy's death and slowly reveals the relationship between her and Pete and how it ended. But ultimately there's not a single likable character in the story. The ones who are honest assholes turn out to be the most commendable since they're at least honest about their desires and the situations they find themselves in. Interesting novel, though nothing great. Probably a good read if you're thinking of hanging out in stripclubs in Thailand.