Margo's Got Money Troubles

Rufi Thorpe

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cover backgroundMargo's Got Money Troubles

About this book

From the critically acclaimed author of The Knockout Queen comes a blisteringly funny and tenderhearted story about a young woman's unconventional path to finding her power, both online and off.

Margo Millet, the daughter of a Hooters waitress and an ex-wrestler, always knew she'd have to hustle. But life takes a turn when her brief affair with an English professor leaves her pregnant and alone at twenty. Facing eviction and desperate for cash, Margo agrees to let her estranged father, Jinx, move in. In exchange for childcare, he brings an unexpected skillset to the table when Margo decides to launch an OnlyFans account.

Inspired by Jinx's wrestling wisdom, Margo crafts a compelling online persona that quickly becomes a runaway success. But as internet fame explodes, Margo must grapple with the price of her newfound power and the blurred lines between performance and reality. Margo's Got Money Troubles is a laugh-out-loud, empowering tale of a young woman determined to make her own rules in a world that's rigged against her.

Summary of Key Ideas

  • The Harsh Realities of Single Motherhood

    The novel explores the financial struggles of a young, single mother in contemporary America. Margo faces unemployment and limited support systems, forcing her to navigate the challenges of providing for her child in an expensive world. This theme highlights the economic pressures faced by many young parents and the often-unseen realities of poverty and financial insecurity.

  • Sex Work as a Means of Survival

    Margo turns to OnlyFans as a means of survival, sparking a conversation about sex work and its implications. The book examines the complexities and moral ambiguities surrounding Margo's choice, challenging societal judgments and exploring the power dynamics inherent in the sex industry. It prompts readers to question their own biases and consider the desperation that can lead individuals to unconventional means of income.

  • Societal Hypocrisy and Motherhood

    The narrative delves into the hypocrisy of societal expectations surrounding motherhood and financial support. Margo experiences judgment for her choices, particularly regarding her work on OnlyFans, while also facing the practical difficulties of raising a child with limited resources. The novel critiques the lack of support systems for single mothers and the unrealistic standards imposed on them.

  • Self-Discovery Through Adversity

    Margo's journey is marked by self-discovery and personal growth. As she navigates the challenges of motherhood and financial instability, she learns about her own strength, resilience, and capacity for love. The novel follows her evolution as she embraces her identity and redefines her values in the face of adversity, highlighting the transformative power of difficult experiences.

  • Challenging Patriarchal Norms

    The book challenges patriarchal standards of morality and expectations placed on women, particularly concerning their sexuality and financial independence. Margo defies traditional notions of feminine virtue by embracing her sexuality on OnlyFans and taking control of her economic destiny. The story encourages readers to question these patriarchal norms and consider the limitations they impose on women's lives.

  • The Blurring of Online and Offline Identities

    The narrative explores the complexities of online identity and its impact on real life. Margo creates a persona on OnlyFans that allows her to earn money but also exposes her to judgment and potential risks. The novel examines the blurred lines between online and offline identities and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in a digital world.

  • Humor as a Coping Mechanism

    Despite the serious themes, the novel employs humor and wit to engage readers. Margo's voice is often funny and self-deprecating, creating a relatable and endearing character. The book balances its exploration of difficult issues with moments of levity, making it both thought-provoking and entertaining.

  • The Power of Community Support

    The importance of building a supportive community is a recurring theme. Margo relies on friends and unexpected connections to navigate her challenges. The novel emphasizes that these relationships, while sometimes unconventional, provide her with emotional and practical assistance. This underscores the vital role of community in overcoming adversity, especially for those lacking traditional family support.

Chapter Recap

Chapter OneRufi Thorpe begins the narrative with a whimsical comparison of starting a new book to embarking on a first date, setting a humorous yet slightly apprehensive tone. The story introduces Margo, a nineteen-year-old facing the overwhelming situation of an unplanned pregnancy with her professor. Her bab
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About The Author

Rufi Thorpe

Main Quotes

"Love was not something, I realized, that came to you from outside."

"I had always thought that love was supposed to come from other people, and somehow, I was failing to catch the crumbs of it, failing to eat them, and I went around belly empty and desperate."

"It felt good to be seen."

"When had she become this person who had to be so careful?"

"She had felt so guilty, wanting things."

"But how strange, to actively choose to be unseen."

"She loved him so much it was like a physical pain, like she was being turned inside out."

"She was so tired of being brave."

"There was no one to save her but herself."

"You couldn't save anyone who didn't want to be saved."

"She was not a person who could be happy alone."

Who Should Read This Book

Readers of contemporary fiction

Fans of novels about young women navigating modern life and its challenges

Those interested in stories exploring themes of class, money, sex, and power dynamics

Readers who enjoy humorous and insightful writing

Individuals who appreciate character-driven narratives

Viewers of the upcoming A24/Apple TV+ series based on the book

Readers of authors like Sally Rooney or Ottessa Moshfegh

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