I think this book appealed to me because it's an examination of someone else's fucked up relationship: what made them stay, and why they should have left. The pain the author went through was palpable while reading it. Whether or not it reflects an actual relationship it clearly came from a deep, raw place. I suspect it is based on his real story; that depth of investigation has to come from life.
Read straight through "Love is Not Constantly..." reads like someone's diary: chronological entries describe meeting and falling love with Anne, who it unfolds is an alcoholic. As the novella progresses the author struggles between wanting to stay for those glimpses of something great, and needing to leave due of his girlfriend's lack of control. What makes this story really special though, is that at the end of each 'entry' you're given a different date to turn to, or maybe a choice between two dates. Following the author's skipping path through the book shows you the untenable logic of love: contrasting an ugly episode of alcoholism with a magic first kiss, letting the reader in on those unreasonable turns that keep you with someone you shouldn't be with. That's where the genius of this novella lies. From start to finish you'd probably close this book and wonder why Zach needed over four years to realize Anne wouldn't change. Flipping back and forth you understand a little better how his heart played tricks on him, reminding of how things might be.
I'd recommend this fast read to anyone. I admit that I did have anxiety dreams about my ex-boyfriend going on a six month heroin binge (which certainly never happened) after reading it late into the night. So if you're emotionally susceptible maybe save it for an afternoon read.
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