The Trick is to Keep Breathing

The main character in this novel, ironically named Joy, is as deeply depressed as any character I've encountered. Joy has lost her mother to suicide and has broken off her long-term relationship with a boyfriend. She started an affair with a married man who unexpectedly dies as well. Reviewers say the novel is full “of great warmth and energy”, that “the wit and irony found in moments of despair prove to be Joy's salvation.” It didn't feel that way to me. The novel closes with Joy drinking heavily (again) while bemoaning her life (again). I didn't see any salvation for Joy; Joy felt destined for suicide. We ought to check on Galloway, too, while we're at it.