<DIV>Zoey's fevered existence is sketched in alternating chapters of past and present. Her past buzzes with memories of a Catholic girlhood. Her present is still more addled, penning smutty books and acting as receptionist for women in leather. Author Estep ? who has performed slam poetry on MTV and appeared on the Charlie Rose Show, PBS, and other venues ? avoids the twin pitfalls of maudlin compassion and phony redemption in this vivid tale.</div>