I really wanted to like this one, but I am DNFing for now instead. There's a lot of jumping around in the timeline and I'm not sure what is happening when. Also, there are 2 main POVs, and they have very different tones to them, and I just can't wrap my head around that right now. Perilous is a grade school kid, and his sections feel Middle Grade. Then there's Casey, who's an adult, and his sections feel New Adult. Except sometimes the whole thing feels VERY adult... and right now that mix-up is just not what I want. I've been enjoying listening to it, I just don't want to continue right now. I may return to it later when I'm in a more flexible mood. ~ DNF @ 35%

Alex Jennings has written a lovely book that has won, among others, the Compton Crook Award. That's great and I wish him well. But it's not the kind of book I like. ( )

Wildly inventive and unique world-building, so grounded in the love for a city and community. I felt nostalgic for this city I haven't seen in 20 years and connected to the author who can love a place the way others love their family. I'm positive there are many clever references to the real world that I didn't even clock; and that's ok, they are special treats for those who love this city too.
I didn't get solid reading time for this book; I picked it up in breaks and sometimes only got to read 3 pages in a day. I share that to say my opinion might be different had I read it straight and with full attention. There's a lot in flux in this story, setting, character, POV, timeline, and at some point I was convinced I'd missed a major reveal or flat out skipped a chapter. I had to take it on faith that the story would resolve in a way that made sense. In the end it was worth it, and I look forward to seeing what else this author produces. I also look forward to someday being able to travel safely and experience the vibe of New Orleans again. ( )

might be the first in a series ( )

What a wonderful read! It truly captures the magic that is New Orlean with a sense of jazz found throughout. By that I mean, what happens was rarely expected. The book wasn't afraid to rush when needed. Characters were given space to have their solo moments. Things were a little off beat, but it all worked.

I totally recommend it to anyone who wants to escape into a novel that still struggles with issues in today's world. Yet long for the magic that just seems under New Orleans' surface. ( )