'The houses on Crab Key were owned by people so wealthy that they were hardly ever there.'
Years ago I read Joy Williams’ book, The Florida Keys: A History & Guide because I wanted to visit the Keys. It was a unique travel guide, witty and charming. I never made it to the Keys but when I saw a recommendation for Breaking and Entering, Williams’ 3rd novel written in 1988, I remembered the guidebook and decided to give this one a go. It’s about Liberty and Willie, a young, unemployed couple, who break into Florida Keys properties when the owners are away. They have a home of their own but enjoy the superior amenities of these properties for awhile and leave before the owners return. Liberty is unable to have children of her own but has a big white rescue dog and two neglected neighbourhood children that she has befriended. She is depressed. Liberty and Willie have been together since they were teenagers but lately she finds him drifting away.
This is a story about America’s dark side. There is a black cloud hanging over it. Will they get caught breaking and entering? Will they be victims of the gun violence that is pervasive in Florida? This is not a feelgood book - it starts on a whimsical note and gets much bleaker - but it is well written and captures a world that I hope I never have to live in.
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