I really enjoyed the author's other book, and I was excited to pick this one up. It focused on Megan, 24 years old, who feels her life is already at a dead end, largely because of her soul crushing job as a receptionist for a gastroenterologist. Megan's ire is particularly raised by her co-worker, Jillian, a 35 year old single mother who presents an overly happy face but is facing increasing personal struggles. The book explores both Megan and Jillian's lives on the own and how they interact.

This was a perceptive look at the struggles and frustrations in the early years in the workforce and the interesting dynamics that come from relationships among co-workers.

Recommended!

This is another example in a growing genre I've been loving where the main characters are quite honestly terrible. In a similar fashion to Ottessa Moshfegh, Butler shows all the nitty gritty of depression, anxiety, and being lost in the world in your 20s and 30s and Megan and Jillian are not likable but relatable. These girls hate each other and are desperately trying to keep up appearances and find their way out of situations of their own making. They're not making any friends along the way but do provide a funny reprieve.

Two women with differing world views are on a collision course in this work from H Butler. The author goes to great lengths to offer each protagonist their world view in detail. The opposites will unite theme is gone here and while one scrambles to keep the sunny side up. Just as failing is the glass empty view of her coworker. While each have their faults I found little redemption for either in the end.

This was such an interesting read. Megan and Jillian were both unlike any other characters I’ve read before.