Really, a set of vignettes set in different time periods which cascade into the overall story. Neatly tied up, filled with superfluous material as well though, I think. The presentation of the structure make it go very quickly. Lots of transitions and white space. Quite accessible and clear, especially when you’re there at the turn, so to speak, and find out what kind of story this is—why very clear is fairly exemplary for the fiction you’ll find this to be.

But I do think that it could have been much tighter; dwelling on some moments so overlong it drifts from what it’s “about”. And I’m at odds about that. It was surely a 4 star read at some points. Especially because this drift from the core story does partially mirror a certain protagonists decisions—though I’m not sure that’s intentional, and not merely a stretch or byproduct. Regardless, I think the bare bones nature of this text prompts you to see how elegant it could have been and chose not to. That’s a stylistic choice. And one that made it short of exceeding the expectations it sets, because the chosen beginning, to some extent, are extraneous content; perhaps look for a fun “gotcha” moment. It’s not too much to ask for better character work truncated than what we get though, so no dice.

Also: Be warned. If you’ve not read The Glass Hotel, and have the intention to do so, don’t read this book! It fairly spoils the white space is leaves for some characters. A fun calling card, if you know, you know!