The focus of the memoir is Crosley’s relationship with her friend (and one-time boss) Russell and her reconciling her grief over his death by suicide. Because Russell’s death has already occurred in the “real time” of the book, his characterization must take place indirectly, through Crosley’s memories of him. Importantly, then, the version of Russell presented in the book is one that is filtered through the narrator’s lens.

Russell grew up as a gay man in a conservative household at a time when being gay was not condoned by many people. Though Crosley does not reveal specific details of Russell’s life before moving to New York City, she hints that it was a difficult one in which Russell lacked a sense of belonging. As the narrative unfolds, Russell’s professional persona and personal one become clear. He was deeply passionate about his interests, which included old Hollywood and the glamour of film stars, the theater in all forms, and hunting for one-of-a-kind items amid antique stores and flea markets. His love for his hobbies was larger than life, and Crosley’s descriptions indicate that Russell sought to “convert” everyone around him to loving these things as well, as though he were forever on a mission to convince the world of how right he was.

In his professional life, Russell worked tirelessly, unapologetically defending the authors whose books he promoted. Since his position sometimes placed him amid conflicting camps—author or agent versus the media or another form of the public—Russell consistently looked out for the interests of the publishing house. He could be crass and domineering—traits that eventually caused his words and actions to be construed as sexual harassment.

In both work and friendship, Crosley characterizes Russell as having a bold and direct personality—he did not mince words and was bold and blatant in his interactions with both his friends and his colleagues. His friendship with Crosley showcases his sarcasm and wit, as well as his tendency to often have a pessimistic view of the world. However, it is clear that Russell was a source of guidance, love, and support for Crosley and that their friendship was an unwavering one. Even after Crosley moved on to a new career and issues between Russell and his partner caused Russell to socialize less, the two remained close. Russell’s friendship, then, was a foundational part of Crosley’s life, and his death is all the more troubling to her when it occurs unexpectedly.