Kind of torn on this one. I really like several of Akwaeke Emezi’s other works (Pet and Bitter), however in some ways I can tell this is one of their earlier works. There is a lot built into the narrative in the short 240 pages, however the speed at which we progress through the story results in what feels like a little bit of a rush to get to the end and therefore lacks some of the emotional punch I was expecting.

I also spent so much of the novel questioning why incest was included and wondering if I was missing something on this particular plot point. Perhaps it’s a difference in cultural norms or forcing us to face uncomfortability, but I just couldn’t get past this part. I kept thinking just how strong this story would be if they were childhood friends or anything other than biologically related. It was something that continuously bothered me (especially because it  was emphasized so much) and it really took away from my ability to engage.

Overall interesting story and impactful themes, just a bit of a letdown I suppose.