Although as you say it does seem like bit of a downer at times, it certainly sounds intriguing. A good winter read.
Actually, based on your review, this sounds like one I'd rather like, another one for my tbr list. I don't mind a downer, it makes the more comedic novels that much more appreciated. So, what do you think, did it deserve it's spot on the short list?
Allison: Perhaps I should have said in the review, but there are ample doses of comic relief (albeit sometimes dark) as well.
Wanda: That's tough for me to say without reading a lot of Canadian fiction that was published this year. If I was to do a short-list from all the books I've read this year, definitely.