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‘A girl comes of age against the knife. She must learn to bear its blade. To be cut. To bleed. To scar over and still, somehow, be beautiful and with good enough knees to take the sponge to the kitchen floor every Saturday. You’re either lost or you’re found. These truths argue one another for infinity. And what is infinity but a tangled swear. A cracked circle. A space of fuchsia sky. If we bring it down to earth, infinity is a series of rolling hills. A countryside in Ohio where all the tallgrass snakes know how angels lose their wings.��

Betty by Tiffany McDaniel is an extraordinary literary achievement that deserves every accolade it has received. McDaniel's prose is poetic and piercing, weaving a narrative that transports readers to the heart of Appalachia and into the tumultuous life of Betty Carpenter.

This novel is a raw and unflinching exploration of family, trauma, and the enduring power of hope. McDaniel's character development is nothing short of remarkable. Betty is a protagonist who will linger in readers' minds long after the final page is turned. Her resilience in the face of unspeakable tragedy is both inspiring and heartbreaking.

Through Betty's eyes, we witness the beauty and brutality of the world she inhabits, from the lush landscapes of Ohio to the dark corners of her own family secrets. What truly sets Betty apart is McDaniel's ability to capture the essence of human emotion with such depth and authenticity. The novel is a rollercoaster of emotions, from moments of profound sorrow to unexpected bursts of joy. McDaniel tackles difficult subjects with sensitivity and grace, never shying away from the complexities of love, loss, and identity.

In addition to its captivating storytelling, Betty is a triumph of cultural representation. McDaniel paints a vivid portrait of Appalachian life, challenging stereotypes and celebrating the rich tapestry of its people. Her prose is imbued with a deep reverence for the land and its traditions, making it impossible not to fall in love with the world she has created.

Overall, Betty is a masterpiece that transcends genre and leaves an indelible mark on the soul. McDaniel's debut novel is a tour de force of literary fiction, and she is undoubtedly a talent to watch.

I cannot recommend this book highly enough, it is a must read for anyone who appreciates the power of storytelling to illuminate the human experience.

My Highest Recommendation.

Thank you Dorian for buddy reading this beautiful book with me.