At first glance, the title Generation Loss seems to point to disaffected youth. However, it really refers to a photographic term wherein subsequent photos lose some of their quality/immediacy as they are made from the same print/negative.

And photography is the central spoke around which this story turns. Photographs define the protagonists' life, it is the means by which suspense/terror builds, and it is the language of photography; colors, shapes, vibrancy, that makes this book so very interesting to read.

It also helps that it features a drug-addicted heroine who despite stealing, lying, senseless mean acts, and self-destructing tendencies, obsession with death, stays somehow very sympathetic. Even at the end, when she saves the day, it is done in a very egoistic, self-centered and believable way. But you can't help but root for her.

The fantastic element in this book is very slight, if there at all. Most of it can be explained away by craziness or conincidence.

Taking place on a small island off the coast of Maine, the portrayal of the land and people of that place was just as fascinating for me as the story itself.

Nicely done. Very Recommended for anyone. (although I warn you, there are some very disturbing images in this book related to death)