Why is it that the ups and downs of addicts make for such entertaining memoirs? As an outsider, you get that can’t-look-away feeling when reading about someone hitting ‘rock bottom’… and this is what makes Liana Maeby’s debut novel South On Highland such a gripping read.
Leila Massey, a young L.A. screenwriter, is on the verge of hitting it big when she falls into the grip of drug and alcohol addiction. Her descent into the narcotic underbelly of the city leads her to a commune in the desert, a filthy room at the Chateau Marmont, and, eventually, rehab. Will Leila continue down the dark path of addiction? Or will she make it as a successful writer?
South On Highland is actually based on the author’s own life, which makes it a raw and haunting read (don’t worry, it’s also peppered with humorous moments). Liana’s book explores identity, what it means to be an addict and the social stigmas that come with the label.
You can buy South On Highland at Exclusive Books.
Searching for another good read? Take a look at a few of our top picks, here or check out our top 15 reads for summer.
