The lives of a homeless man, a lawyer and a prostitute are woven together to provide an honest portrayal of human beings attempting to redefine themselves against the friction of idealism’s clash with societal expectations.
Turnstiles is the first novel by West Saanich’s Andrea McKenzie Raine. She published her first book of poetry, titled A Mother’s String, through Ekstasis Editions in 2005. The UVic grad has attended the successful Planet Earth Poetry reading series (formerly known as Mocambopo) in Victoria since 1997, and participated in the Glenairley writing retreats led by Canadian poet and novelist Patrick Lane in Sooke.
Turnstiles tells the story of Martin Sourdough, a homeless person who has chosen to turn his back on the corporate, material world. He is joined by Willis Hancocks Jr. – a barrister, alcoholic philanderer and a misogynist – and Evelyn (aka Yvonne) who works as a prostitute.
Turnstiles speaks to society’s problems through the smaller scope of each character’s individual trials.
“There is a struggle that exists between the need to serve one’s own needs and the expectation to participate in the larger social scheme,” said Raine.
She said Martin and Willis are both trying to fit into the world, but on their own terms.
“They are naïve, searching for an Eden-like state of being. Through a broader experience of personal fortune, misfortune, travel, and social interactions, they each learn to accept their path and take control of their own destinies.”
An empathetic and honest portrayal of human beings attempting to redefine themselves against the friction of idealism’s clash with societal expectations, Turnstiles is perfect for readers seeking a stirring, dramatic depiction of love, loss, impulse and consequence.
Turnstiles is published by Inkwater Press and is available through Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, Powells.com and Inkwaterbooks.com.