Rossner, best known for Looking for Mr. Goodbar (LJ 6/15/75), focuses her attention here on a mother-daughter relationship; like most of Rossner's fictional relationships, it is not healthy. Madeline enjoys her mother, Anita's, love until a brother is born. Then as drugs, alcohol, and sex become increasingly important to Anita, Madeline becomes her mother's scapegoat, a despised child. Early on, we know the outcome will be horrific. Our apprehension, consequently, increases with every page. One of Rossner's trademarks is understatement; she recounts the most dreadful occurrences in a subdued, conversational tone?a tactic that makes the events even more offensive. In fact, if this were a movie, we would often hide our eyes. Rossner fans will be asking for this book.
-Dorothy S. Golden, Georgia Southern Univ., Statesboro
-Dorothy S. Golden, Georgia Southern Univ., Statesboro
