"A future classic"
Twenty something Englishwomen Esther Waring and Gemma
Harding have been friends for about two decades though they
are quite the opposite in attitude. Esther is confident to
the point of arrogance that she can do anything while Gemma
is reticent to the point of insecurity believing that she
can do nothing. Though Esther's haughtiness includes
stealing the guy Gemma wants, to renew their sliding
friendship the duo travels to India together on a
backpacking trip. Rather than the adventure they expected, the trip
proves to be more of a series of bickering spats and
complaints as Esther expects to gain her way ever time
regardless of Gemma's desires while Gemma argues and
whines, but acquiesces. Soon veteran backpacker Coral
joins the duet. While Esther detests the know-it-all
newcomer who steals her thunder, Gemma warms to her. The
threesome trek through the jungle together until they reach
a shrine where an ecstatic Coral begins a self-immolation
journey that ends in Esther LOSING GEMMA. Starting with the opening statement and the stark
locale (no Taj Mahal), LOSING GEMMA grips the audience from
beginning to end as readers observe the downside of
friendship. The story line engages the audience and though
the ending is anticipated, it takes little away from one of
the year's strongest character studies that focuses clearly
on all three female protagonists, but hones deep inside
Esther and Gemma. Katy Gardner provides fans with a
powerful relationship drama filled with real people that
stress friends that care could lead to friends that betray. Harriet Klausner
Reviewed by PNR Group Member
Posted April 5, 2002
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