Review: Cage Life by Karin Cox
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 05 8, 2012
Cage Life is two short stories that have a common thread.In the first story we meet a young University student living in Queensland in Australia. She is drifting through her life with uncertain goals and friends who may not be the best choice. Along the way she meets a man who while he doesn't sweep her off her feet, he at the very least, sweeps the kitchen. Unfortunately, her fairy tale life is beginning to crumble and eventually disaster strikes.A very well written and emotion provoking story that will leave a lasting impression.The second story takes us on a journey with our protagonist as he ages. The younger woman in his life begins to find him difficult and her small betrayals increase with time. As she is more and more neglectful of his needs and emotions he becomes more resentful. For a time he even leaves her, but he finds life without her as unbearable as life with her. But eventually she commits the ultimate betrayal.This is a twisted little story that will grip you with its heartbreaking view of neglect and stun you at the end. I loved this one so much I went back and read it again.Ms. Cox not only knows how to communicate a story well, the writes with skill. Her characters are easy to identify with. The narration is good and very smooth.We recommend the first story for 18+ due to some drug use. However, the drug use does have consequences so it is not an unreasonable story for an older High School student.Karen Bryant Doering,Parents' Little Black Book