Return to an Austin where the beer was Shiner long necks, the music cosmic cowboy, Velveeta was still considered cheese, and, for all anyone knew, Elon Musk was a men’s body spray. Meet the residents of Alamo House. They may be at comic odds with each other, but at least they have one thing in common: They all hate the frat rats across the street.

 

Here blossoms an extraordinary, endearing friendship among Mary Jo, hilariously confused about life and love but determined to get both right; Fayrene, flushed with freedom after her escape from Baptist Waco; and Collie, party girl and self-proclaimed guide to the ways of the world. Together, they make the best Lone Star combo since Dr Pepper, chips, and queso.

 

“Not since Billy Lee Brammer has a book described Austin life so vividly.”

 

Austin-American Statesman

 

“A zany, fast-paced novel. An author as talented as Bird has a right to write about anything she pleases.”

 

Chicago Tribune

 

“A comic triumph.”

 

New York Times Book Review