THE BEST AWFUL

POSTCARDS FROM THE EDGE thrust its main character, Suzanne Vale, into the public eye. Vale is back, edgy and in the throes of self-medication for her roller-coaster existence as the single mother of a young daughter. The author is likely the best narrator to do justice to the irreverent and dark humor of this book. She plumbs the depths of Vale's depression, her manic moments, and her attempts to find some way to function meaningfully between them. Fisher's affection for Vale and her struggles to remain sane mean there is always some light and humor in Vale's otherwise harsh world. J.E.M. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/ JUL 04]