Whiskey: A Novel

Bruce Holbert’s intriguing novel, which takes place in Electric City, Washington, near the Grand Coulee Dam, is a candid examination of a family’s deteriorating relationships. Alternating between three spans of time, Whiskey is separated into three Biblically named sections. “Genesis” (1941-1971) reveals Peg and Pork’s troubled marriage and the effect their destructive behavior has on their part-Native American sons, Andre and Smoker. In “Lamentations” (1983-1988), Andre falls in love with and marries Claire, a coworker at his school. And in the most magnetic section, “Exodus” (1991), Andre, who has just been served divorce papers, is called upon by his brother, Smoker, to help search for Smoker’s daughter, Bird, who was taken by a group of religious extremists.

Holbert writes about this dysfunctional family with searing honesty. The novel’s easy-flowing, believable dialogue is a true highlight. While Holbert’s language is simple and to-the-point, the plot itself meanders confusingly. With senseless violence, dry wit, and a unique literary voice, Whiskey is a surprisingly deep novel about the hope of grace and redemption.