What readers think of The Slip, plus links to write your own review.

And what a bold twist Lucas Schaefer deftly pulls off in his debut novel. Set in Austin, TX, in a gritty boxing gym, the novel's unifying theme is transformation, while the vehicle that delivers so many of the wondrous characters to that state is boxing. But I don't think you have to love or even know much about boxing to fall for this book, in which there are wild coincidences, rude jokes, a jumble of time frames, a gaggle of compelling personalities in varying states of flux, a mixture of third-, first-, and even second-person narrations, and sly commentary on race in America. All tossed in a splash of raunch. It worked, and I loved it. 

This is a big sprawling book that at times feels nearly disconnected from itself but through some sort of magic the author wrangles all the loose bits and pieces into a totally satisfying and complete tale. If you happen to be from Austin or know it fairly well there are all kinds of local treats and establishments that have been seamlessly incorporated into a strong sense of place.

I can’t begin to give a sensible plot summary and if you find one don’t read it because it will likely give away too much. Just know that this is a long, character-driven ride that in the end was well worth it for me. I wasn’t at first sure I could hang with this story told mostly from a young, male perspective. But hang I did and as time passed I found so many endearing characters, lol humor, beautiful writing, and some fascinating storytelling.