Wild Game is a memoir written by Adrienne Brodeur that delves into her complex relationship with her mother, Malabar. The book opens with a pivotal moment in Adrienne's life when she was just 14 years old and her mother confided in her about an affair she was having with her husband's best friend. This confession not only shattered Adrienne's innocence but also set in motion a series of events that would shape her relationship with her mother for years to come.
The book is a raw and honest exploration of the dynamics between mothers and daughters, and the ways in which those relationships can be both nurturing and destructive. Malabar is portrayed as a larger-than-life figure, whose beauty and charm mask a manipulative and self-centered nature. Adrienne, on the other hand, is desperate for her mother's love and approval, even as she struggles to assert her own identity and break free from her mother's controlling influence.
Brodeur's writing is lyrical and evocative, drawing the reader into the lush Cape Cod setting and the complicated emotions that swirl between mother and daughter. She skillfully navigates the complexities of family dynamics, exploring themes of betrayal, forgiveness, and the enduring bonds that tie us to our loved ones.
Overall, Wild Game is a compelling and thought-provoking read that will resonate with anyone who has grappled with the complexities of family relationships. Brodeur's memoir is a testament to the power of storytelling as a means of processing trauma and finding healing, and it is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers long after they have turned the final page.