O Canada

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I need a new novel. I'm in the middle of a few nonfiction books and it's not doing it for me. I'll crowd source on social media, and feel free to comment here if you have any recommendations.

I did recently finish two engrossing reads: Matthew Perry's memoir Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing and breakout novelist Carley Fortune's Every Summer After. Both authors happen to be Canadian.

Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing
Matthew Perry's book is intense. I knew it would be a doozy and I resisted reading it. Hubs insisted; he knew it would be up my alley. In Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing Perry divulges details of his childhood, addictions, dating life, friendships and more. He has an incredible memory notwithstanding years of substance abuse. Perry is a deeply suffering person, despite massive fame and riches. In fact he repeatedly makes just that point: stardom and wealth can't fix addiction or its underlying causes. Perry's issues started early and he has a gaping emptiness still. He's a seeker. He's searching for fulfillment, spirituality and a partner. The book reads like a dating profile in certain parts. Perry is ready to settle down, perhaps raise a family, keep working as an actor and writer and help other addicts. Overall his book is hopeful, if at times gut-wrenching and even tedious. 

Every Summer After
This novel was a delight to read. It spans years of protagonist Percy's life, from young tween dealing with frenemy drama to adult woman battling anxiety and relationship issues. The narration alternates between present day and flashbacks to her younger self. We're let in on Percy falling for her first boyfriend and it brings to mind the pure, giddy exuberance that is young, true love.

AES