What It’s Like in Words: A Novel

A good thing to know about relationships is that intermittent reinforcement is the most powerful bonding mechanism. When one is only occasionally rewarded, one tries even harder to gain success. This is a feature of many bad relationships. In this story, it began at a weekly writer’s meet up. The main character, Enola, struggles to finish writing her story. Her group of writers is less than enthusiastic about the progress she is making.

Into that group comes an arrogant but brilliant outsider. Enola is captivated by his dismissive and caustic statements. She feels right away that this man is a writer and she desperately needs to be close to the creativity and intelligence which sparks good writing. Unfortunately, his arrogance and detachment do not make him an ideal boyfriend. But occasionally, he will come through with some tidbit of charm she can hold onto.

This relationship doesn’t help Enola with her own writing, but she feels lucky just to share his promise and progress. This book is Eliza Moss’ first novel and it is very good.