Ostensibly, Simon's
first novel is a coming-of-age story
intertwining the lives of three Kansas friends during the 1970s
and 1980s. The story focuses on Tully (a nickname for Natalie),
a young woman who has endured a childhood of abuse and
abandonment to become a promiscuous teenager who longs to move
to California. When wealthy Robin DeMarco promises her both
love and financial security, Tully marries him and proceeds to
live a life tormented by her friend's suicide, childhood
traumas, and affairs. It is difficult for the listener to
imagine what the men see in Tully, for she is deceitful and
manipulative, with seemingly no conscience. Also, the plot is
melodramatic and more reminiscent of a soap opera than a
serious novel. Actress Karen Allen's raspy voice does nothing
to enhance this flat and depressing story. Not recommended. --
Susan McCaffrey, Legg Middle Sch. Lib., Coldwater, Mich.
Copyright © 1991 The Library Journal