A review by lmm0
Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson

mysterious reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

If you're interested in reading this book, I suggest not reading the synopsis, as I think it gives away some major plot points - I've provided a more vague summary below...
This novel follows siblings Byron and Benny, who, after their mother Eleanor’s death, are left with a black cake and a voice recording that unravels a dark family secret. The recording reveals Eleanor’s past as a young swimmer who fled her island home - as the siblings uncover their mother’s hidden history, they must confront painful truths, heal their fractured relationship, and decide if they can fulfill Eleanor’s final request to "share the black cake when the time is right." The story explores themes of family, identity, and the power of secrets.
For being a debut, this is a pretty good read, I just think it went on longer than it needed to. Also, not sure if we needed as many characters as those that were included. If you don't like shifting perspectives & time jumps, this is not the book for you. A particular brownie point this novel earned were the short chapters.

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