The Opposite of Everyone

Joshilyn Jackson books deserved to be read twice in a row - the first time quickly because you have to find out where her characters' journeys will end, and the second time more leisurely so you can savor her beautiful writing. The Opposite of Everyone is vintage JJ, and very reassuring to me after the disappointing Someone Else's Love Story. For anyone who is unfamiliar with this author, you're in for a treat - a damaged but tough and competent heroine, an ex-lover with his own ghosts, a harrowing look at the foster care system, family and friends lost and found, the reason why divorce attorneys live for BANK cases (both assholes, no kids), and attempted murder by kitten. Does that sound sad, funny and true all at the same time? It is.

For long-time Jackson fans, you'll be glad to find that Paula Vauss is a much more mature and engaging heroine than Shandi from Love Story (maybe I just have a thing for heroines who won't take any BS), and the plot doesn't hit any third rails like Love Story's late twist that some readers saw as unforgivable "rape apology" This may be the author's best work to date.

ETA: Just read an interview with Jackson in which she says, “I'm a re-reader and I write for re-readers. As a re-reader, I want to zoom along the first time and love every minute, but I want enough in there to catch on my brain to make me want to delve in again.” Exactly what I meant when I started this review!