I would say this book is definitely more literary and historical with a bit of a mystery through line. Most of the book is spent exploring the family dynamics, the relationship dynamics, classism, and misogyny. It is more reflection on what being wealthy, what being a woman, what femininity means to each person, and what it meant at that moment in history. And then the mystery is just the thing we return to occasionally to advance the plot along. 

 

And I loved every minute of this book. The atmosphere was perfect, the characters were unique, compelling, and complex in the best way. Take Barbara’s mother, Alice. When I was first introduced to Alice I hated her. She is terrible, uncaring, fat phobic, and distant. But then, you learn more about her past, her backstory, and some of the ways she acts make sense. I can understand her more and even came to sympathize. 

 

Tracy was by far my favourite character. I related to her on so many levels and felt very seen with her as a character. Other characters I really enjoyed and felt connected to were Louise, T.J. and Carl. All very interesting, well written, compelling characters. 

 

The plot was interesting as well, but definitely secondary to the characters and themes that Liz Moore wanted to discuss. I sort of wish the ending was a little different, a more open-ended close would have been interesting, or even just getting rid of the last scene and ending it with, what I thought was a clear ending, if maybe slightly ambiguous. 

 

Can’t wait to read more from Liz Moore in the future.