Believe it or not, I’m having a hard time finding the words
for this review. I loved this book,
simply loved it – and yet somehow that doesn’t seem enough. Something in this book really spoke to me;
the characters, the story, the issues, and the dialogue just came together to
create a wonderfully enjoyable piece of writing.
Painted Faces by L.H. Cosway tells the story of Freda, a
young Irish woman working two jobs to make ends meet as she figures out just
what she would like to do with the rest of her life. Enter her new neighbour
Nicholas, or “Vivian” as he first introduces himself to “Fred”, a completely
hot and tempting New Zealander who seems to be instantly attracted to
Fred. Intrigued by her new friend, Fred
jumps at the opportunity to see Nicholas perform at his new show…and is
completely stunned when she realizes his “show” is a drag queen cabaret act. As she comes to discover the hows and the whys
behind this unique man, you can’t help but be dragged along for the ride (pun
intenteded ;) ), making for an unique and emotional read.
By now you should all know what makes a great book for me –
the characters. And if you read the description above you have to know how I
feel about Nicolas!! Loved, loved, loved
him. Given the topics covered in this
book, you know it was exceptionally written when you completely understand
every aspect of this man, why he is who he is, and can no longer find the
supposed issues in what seems to be an unconventional lifestyle.
“We all paint on a face to show the world,” Nicolas replies
philosophically. “For some of us, that’s quite literal.” He takes a brief pause.
“When you’re passionate about something, you don’t mind suffering a little
discomfort.”
This man is deep and complicated and yet laid bare and open
all at the same time. Tats and muscle,
dress and make up. As Nicolas says
himself, “So this is me darling, a complete and total contradiction. A fucking
mess.” Ahh, but what a mess you are Nicolas. As I said. LOVED him.
Luckily for me, Nicolas was not the only strong character in
this novel. Fred is an amazing and interesting young woman and I identified
with her immediately. Yes, she is prone
to some rather longish rants and side tracked internal discussions (an issue to
some), but to me it just really made me get to know her. I loved hearing her unique observations and
takes on the world she finds herself in.
“I don’t think I’ve ever felt more drunkenly happy, as I
allow a six foot tall drag queen in rainbow high heels to twirl me around the
empty night club to the beats of “Rock DJ” by Robbie Williams.”
My first thought on reading that? “OMG, that would be soooo
much fun!! And I love Rock DJ!!!” LOL! I loved the quirkiness of Fred, so close
to my own. Her insecurities, dreams, and
thoughts were similar to mine as well – she was like my younger, Irish,
literary twin. LOL!
As you can tell already, the background of this story is
unique. It’s not something you would run across every day, and it is not a
typical romance novel. This book has some deep and emotional issues, and L.H.
Cosway writes in some amazing insights into the human conditions of love and
loss. I loved this book, I can not say
it enough. When I was done, I missed the
amazing characters, but more importantly it made me feel as if I now had an
increased appreciation for the distinct differences we all have. Read this. It’s that simple. 100% whole
hearted recommendation from me.
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