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And When She Was Good | Laura Lippman

And When She Was Good by Laura Lippman was  an interesting read.  I’m not sure how I came across this book and why I added it to my “to read” list but for whatever reason I did.  As I got into the book it became clear to me that I didn’t actually read a full synopsis of the book because I was surprised when I discovered the main character was a prostitute.

and-when-she-was-good

When She Was Good is the story of Helen (also Heloise) Lewis.  Helen has a father who not only tells her that she has a nothing face but never has a kind word for his daughter.  When Helen has the opportunity to escape from her miserable life, she jumps on it without considering what the risk will cost her.  With only a GED, Helen is turns to prostitution as a means for providing for herself.  As she escapes from one bad situation to the next she eventually becomes a mother and changes her name to Heloise to protect the life she establishes as a self-employed suburban soccer mom.

While the main character is a prostitute who also becomes a madam, this book doesn’t really go into the graphic details of the life of a prostitute.  Sure there are hints and a few details but if that would keep you from reading a book you don’t have to worry about it with And When She Was Good.

Laura Lippman created a very strong female character in Helen/Heloise Lewis and I found it absolutely fascinating the manner in which she was able to accomplish anything she desired.  There are quite a few twists and turns in the book and it does jump back and forth in time but over all this was a great read.

What was the last book you accidentally stumbled upon and then ended up really enjoying?

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Kate O. Lynch

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