Instead of the story about colorism I expected, I got pulled into an intricately woven net of trauma and complicated interpersonal relationships.

Even though I felt some imbalance in the plot (it seemed unfinished at times), I thought the character-driven narration was really compelling and emotional. Believable characters and honest, intelligent prose. It really broke my heart that trauma and child abuse was present in so many backgrounds, yet the characters bore their burdens alone and hurt others and themselves as they struggled to keep carrying those burdens years afterwards. It made Bride's interactions with Rain and Booker towards the end even more memorable and touching.

I'd recommend this book if you're looking for a character-driven novel with a more introspective plot and a three-dimensional exploration of shame, trauma and guilt.