This is a fascinating novel reminiscent of John Irving’s style. Von Palleske introduces us to history we didn’t know we interested in learning about, the art of making glass eyes. Her characters are unique, in appearance–albino twins, and their ability to interact in the world, or fail to interact, as in the main character’s inability to resolve his guilt, forcing him outside the mainstream of society. He feels connected to his childhood best friend for life through this guilt after urging him to climb a tree and the friend falls, losing his eye. There’s sexual ambiguity, unearthly music (the twins), and frenemies galore. I was fortunate to receive a digital copy from the publisher Dundurn through NetGalley.