This book was sad. The theme is addiction, and some of the stories felt like the characters had no hope. Dark read in some areas. Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the arc of this book in return for my honest opinion. Receiving the book in this manner had no bearing on this review.

Reminiscent of the work of Charles Burkowski, this series of gritty personal sketches featuring characters who are on the seedier side of the San Francisco population. All are connected by addiction, most are self destructive and self loathing. Jon Boilard knows San Francisco well, and uses the Tenderloin to great effect. Knowledge of the City is a plus on whether or not this book will appeal to you, but it is definitely well written and evocative.