Luster

Luster cover
Good Books rating 4.25

Technical:
  • ID: 1099
  • Added: 2025-09-25
  • Updated: 2025-09-26
  • ISBN: 9781529073393
  • Publisher: Picador
  • Published: 2021-06-08
  • Formats: 19
  • Reviews: 3
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Edie is a young black woman trying to make sense of her life, which feels like it's spiraling out of control. She's stuck in a dead-end job, her painting career has stalled, and her personal life is a mess. When she meets Eric, a white, middle-aged archivist with an open marriage and an adopted black daughter, Edie finds herself drawn into their unconventional family dynamic. The novel explores the intricate and often uncomfortable intersections of race, sex, and identity in modern America. /n/nLuster is a razor-sharp debut that blends humor and tenderness to tell a story about what it means to be young and searching for meaning in a world that often feels indifferent. The narrative delves into the complexities of relationships and the struggle for self-discovery, all while maintaining a provocative and engaging tone.

Reviews
Julia's Books · Julia · 2021-07-15
insightful 4.00

The novel is a deep dive into psychological tension and the journey of a young woman finding her voice through art. It's praised for its insightful character development and compelling narrative.

Julia finds the novel to be a compelling exploration of psychological tension and personal growth. She highlights the protagonist's journey as particularly insightful, noting how the character evolves from someone who expresses herself through others to finding her own voice through art. The reviewer appreciates the novel's ability to capture the complexities of young adulthood and the struggles that come with it.


Quick quotes

    It is a novel about psychological tension and about the growth of a young woman into someone able to express herself through art and not just through her relationships.

    Leilani's writing is both provocative and tender, making for a deeply engaging read.

    The novel's exploration of self-discovery and artistic expression is both relatable and inspiring.

The Guardian · 2020-12-26
powerful 4.25

The novel offers a stark portrayal of a young woman's life in a grimy metropolis, highlighting her struggle for stability and affection. It's praised for its unflinching honesty and powerful writing.

The reviewer appreciates the novel's raw and unfiltered look at the struggles of a young woman trying to find her place in a harsh world. The writing is described as powerful and evocative, capturing the essence of modern life with a stark honesty that resonates deeply. The novel's exploration of themes like stability and tenderness is particularly noteworthy, making it a standout debut.


Quick quotes

    Luster is a cold, hard look at life in a dirty 21st-century metropolis for a struggling young woman craving stability and tenderness.

    This is a novel that doesn't shy away from the gritty realities of modern life.

    Leilani's writing is exceptional, capturing the raw emotions and struggles of her protagonist with remarkable clarity.

NPR · 2020-08-23
engaging 4.50

The novel is noted for its sharp wit and dark humor, offering a fresh perspective on the millennial experience. It's praised for its boldness and unique narrative voice.

The reviewer at NPR highlights the novel's sharp wit and dark humor as standout features, making it a unique and engaging read. They appreciate the fresh perspective it offers on the millennial experience, noting that the novel is both hilarious and provocative. The reviewer finds the protagonist's journey to be both relatable and entertaining, making it a memorable debut.


Quick quotes

    Don't fret — Luster isn't a preachy novel. In fact, it is often the opposite; a hilarious and kinky story about what it's like to be young right now.

    Leilani's writing is razor-sharp, with a wit that cuts through the complexities of modern life.

    The novel's dark humor and bold narrative make it a standout in contemporary literature.