My Absolute Darling by Gabriel Tallent is a powerful and harrowing novel that tells the story of 14-year-old Turtle Alveston, a young girl living in a remote coastal town in Northern California with her abusive father. Turtle is a strong and resilient young girl who has learned to survive in a dangerous and unpredictable world, but she is also deeply scarred by the trauma she has endured.
The novel is beautifully written and the author does a fantastic job of bringing Turtle and the other characters to life. The relationship between Turtle and her father is complex and disturbing, and Tallent does not shy away from portraying the brutality and violence that Turtle is subjected to. Despite the difficult subject matter, the novel is ultimately a story of survival, resilience, and the enduring power of love.
One of the most striking aspects of the novel is the vivid and evocative descriptions of the natural world that surrounds Turtle. The rugged and untamed landscape of Northern California plays a central role in the story, serving as both a refuge and a source of danger for Turtle.
Overall, My Absolute Darling is a gripping and unforgettable novel that will stay with readers long after they have finished reading. It is a difficult and challenging read, but it is also a deeply moving and ultimately hopeful story of a young girl's journey to reclaim her own identity and find a sense of belonging in a world that is often cruel and unforgiving.