Kept Animals

In Milliken’s moving debut, a California ranch becomes the stage for tense conflicts of class and family. In 1993, 15-year-old Rory Ramos is a talented horseback rider working at Leaning Rock Ranch alongside her stepfather, Gus. Through the job she becomes friends with June Fisk, the daughter of a rich neighbor who comes for riding lessons, sparking feelings that make Rory confront her own sexuality. After Gus inadvertently causes a car accident that kills the son of a famous actor who lives nearby, Rory becomes close with Vivian Price, the actor’s troubled older daughter, who begins carrying on a secret romantic relationship with Rory while dating June’s twin brother, Wade. But as wildfire season approaches, tensions rise among Rory and Vivian, until one fateful night changes Rory forever. In a separate narrative, Rory’s daughter, Charlie, must untangle what actually happened between the group of friends 22 years earlier. Changing perspective throughout, Milliken excels at capturing each character’s unique voice and perspective—particularly Rory’s guarded quietness and Vivian’s performed jadedness. Her attention to details of place and time, as well as the casual cruelties those of privilege can inflict on those who have less, provide astute undercurrents to the propulsive plot. Milliken’s electric tale keenly documents the power of first love and the lingering hurt of trauma. (Apr.)