A review by jem_ko
Hot Milk by Deborah Levy

4.0

This book is beautiful... and insane. If you like the intense writing style and overthinking that can be seen in novels like ‘Call Me By Your Name’ you will probably enjoy ‘Hot Milk’. The writing is poetic and indulgent and Levy does not hesitate to overdescribe as she ponders, like her overly anxious narrator, the meanings of much larger undertones and philosophical thoughts through a series of small notes on the day to day occurrences in Sofia’s life. This book also discusses maternal (and sometimes family) relationships in such a brutal but beautiful manner. Attachment and memory are also explored but it has to be said that Levy’s description of relationships is the shining glory which elevates this book beyond others. It is easy to see why this was shortlisted for the 2019 Man Booker prize!
The book is, however, complex and emotional, it is even arguably convoluted the further in you get, so be aware of that.