Next to Heaven

Woah! This book is an intense one. A quick, engaging read. First of all, it's a bit of a thriller. Second, it's based on my (and author James Frey’s) town! Our train station even has a sign: "Next Station to Heaven." And the similarities do not stop there, my friend. There are so many details that resemble my suburb's real life, but hopefully not those relating to the shady characters. The fun things in common? The caliber of the school system and teachers, the excellence in sports, the local bar, the parks. But the fun stops there.

The book is about a handful of people who participate in a swingers party. (OK, apparently that is also a thing in my town's storied history - ha!) But this party has some bad people involved. And eventually, there's a murder. The novel is dark and twisty, compelling and spicy.

I met the author at an event at our library. Frey spoke with Gina Gershon in front of a packed audience, everyone eager to hear from a local best-selling, and controversial, writer. I couldn't wait to meet him. His first two books A Million Little Pieces and My Friend Leonard are among my top influential books. I still have them on my bookshelf today, after reading them 20-ish years ago. Frey lives up to his reputation. He calls himself a disruptor; he curses. He doesn't hold back. When I told him I was begrudgingly giving a copy of Next to Heaven to my father (the book is not appropriate!), he balked at my discomfort and wrote a funny note to my dad.

I can't wait for Frey's next books. And how fun to have him as a neighbor!

AES