Oh, this is so cliche. But I could notttttt put this book down. I could not believe what was unfolding before me, and I could not believe how vividly it was being written. There were so many original moments that I wanted to underline and never forget. (But I didn't, and now I've forgotten. Guess I'll have to read it again!) 
 We follow Mary Saunders through poverty, prostitution, and a chance at a new life (view spoiler)[that she totally fucks up in the most shocking way I could have imagined. (hide spoiler)] I felt for her and then was turned against her. What a beautifully drawn character she is. I love her and hate her and am shocked by her. This book is full of sadness and darkness and humor and beauty and love. Every character springs from the page. I wondered, thousands of times, what would happen. And the ending blew me away. I was unable to speak for a few minutes after finishing. 
 A book written this well doesn't need a story so strong. It doesn't! But this book is gripping in both areas. Now I'm left sad that it's over and afraid that reading anything else won't be able to hold a candle to it.