Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

“There was no one who cared enough to ask the right questions when I disappeared for the third time. Because yes, B and B, there would be. a third time”

By the time I got to this part of this story, I was already hooked. Charmaine Wilkerson knows how to tell a story. This book was such an engrossing read. I began this review before even finishing the book. It is a beautiful journey that intertwines family, life decisions, race, class, sexuality, and black cake. Yum.

The story begins with the death of Eleanor Bennet, a mother with two estranged children, Benny and Byron. Eleanor leaves her children with a tape. A tape that from the very beginning shocks us with its contents. As we learn more about the past, we meet an array of characters who all play a role in Eleanor's story.

We also delve deeper into Benny and Byron, the things that caused a rift in their relationship, and whether they will be able to fix what was broken. Secrets from the past and present are revealed in the hopes that the future can be mended and corrected. From the 1960s to current day, this story takes us on a journey from the Caribbean to London to California while unraveling a tale of love, sacrifice, and community.

As a first-generation Ghanaian American, I really enjoy the parts that shed light on the sacrifices parents make as well as the pressure first-generation Americans feel if they can or cannot meet those expectations.

What a fantastic debut from Charmaine Wilkerson. Charmaine tells the story as if you are actually there. From the scenes of the island to the characters' emotions to the smells of the food. I felt as if I was right next to the characters, feeling what they were feeling. This will certainly not be my last read by this author.

Thank you so much to Netgalley and Random House for an advanced reading copy.