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Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Louie on the Rocks by Meredith O'Brien is a look into Louie Francis’s life, which is unraveling due to alcoholism and his relationship with Cristall Baldwin, a woman who is financially exploiting him. Louie’s estranged daughter, Lulu, seeking to protect her father, attempts to gain conservatorship over his finances after discovering Cristall’s theft. Issues between Louie and Lulu have been escalating for years, rooted in Louie’s rejection of Lulu’s identity as a lesbian and their political clashes. Meanwhile, Louie’s deceased wife, Helen, watches posthumously from beyond the grave, deeply concerned about Louie’s choices and the deterioration of their family. She talks about the past and the failures in their marriage. As Lulu fights for control of Louie’s finances, the battle exposes long-standing wounds, with Helen helplessly observing from the afterlife.
Meredith O’Brien’s Louie on the Rocks has a fascinating and totally unique literary style that I absolutely loved. At first glance, the story seems like a daughter wanting to make sure her inheritance isn't wasted, but it turns out to be so much more than that. O’Brien’s writing is solid and achieves the necessary charged emotions without falling into the trap of melodrama. The multiple points of view work well because everyone has a distinct voice. I admit that Helen unsettled me a little initially but in the end she turned out to be my favorite character. The issues of conservatorship are portrayed sympathetically and, surprisingly, the way it pans out feels authentic. As a reader, I could see Louie wasn't in a good place but denying someone their agency because they make terrible choices is a tough sell. O'Brien gets us to a comfortable place and, overall, the story as a whole is a win. Very highly recommended.
