While picking the bookshelf tags for this book, I almost chose "graphic novel." It's a skin-crawling read; Nutting does not shy away from putting the reader in the main character's head, describing bluntly her explicit thoughts. And that character is a middle school teacher who preys on her teenage students. I almost read this with my hands over my eyes at certain parts, wincing as she detailed her sexual appetite and then exploits. YIKES!

At the same time, an incredible read in terms of perspective. As a reader, the character is repulsive--but how interesting to read from that kind of person's point of view. In first person. And as a reader I enjoyed thinking of her story and the plot from the other characters' points of view, and how these events really played out. Celeste is a monster, though her thoughts (and therefore the writing) are witty and even funny at times in their depravity.

That said, I'm so glad I don't have to be in her brain any longer. ::shudder::