Other People's Clothes
Other People's Clothes - Calla Henkel
my review : ✮✮✮
Have you ever been to Berlin? I have, I just got back today. That is how this book makes me feel!! Also, it makes me feel like I took some ecstasy as well. I will admit I need a detox after finishing this book.
All that to say, this writing will truly transport you, and this story is (as @dannypellegrino would say) unhinged.
Go into this book knowing you are entering the Berlin underground party scene. I am talking sex, drugs, and rock and roll baby. Ok - maybe no rock and roll - sex, drugs, and ART.
This story follows art student Zoe Beech, who is currently studying abroad in Berlin. Zoe is taking this semester off as she’s hoping to escape the gruesome murder of her best friend. Her roommate in Berlin is Hailey Mader - lover of all things pop culture… together they try to figure out how to make it in Berlin. The girls find a gorgeous sublet owned by well known thriller writer Beatrice. Once Beatrice leaves town and the girls move in, they start feeling like Beatrice may be watching them. Once they read an interview Beatrice gives on her next novel, they realize they may be who her story is based on. Then Hailey decides they need to become people worthy of a novel…..
The way this book is written is heady and intoxicating. A very dark book; I felt cold basically the entire time I read it. This is a very sloooow burn thriller - probably less of a thriller and more of a coming of age story with a thriller mixed in? Honestly I didn’t find any of the main characters likable, and maybe that’s the point?
I think this would be a good book club book because the ending leaves a lot to be discussed. I would not bring this to a book club that does not want a very graphic telling of life after 3am in Berlin. You are granted access to the most underground clubs, buyer beware.
Best paired with a Club-Mate vodka. Unless you’re not physically in Berlin, just mentally (like me) then a vodka soda with lots of lime will be the perfect substitute.
xx
you’ll love this book if you love:
Being immersed in Berlin’s stimulating party scene
A story that isn’t afraid of being wild
