“But one thing I learned from the Saints,
when the crossroads are open to you, you must decide a path.
I will not stand still while the world makes my choices.”

representation: Dominican MC's, Haitian side character, f/f relationship.

[trigger warnings are listed at the bottom of this review and may contain spoilers]

★★★★★

This was absolutely stunning. No one writes like Elizabeth Acevedo. It's incredible how after a while you don't even realise you're reading a book written in verse because her storytelling ability is SO GOOD. I was picturing everything in my head just like I would with any other book. There were so many elements of the story that I didn't expect, but added so many layers to the story and characters. It was especially interesting to see the difference between living in the Dominican Republic and the US, as one comes with more opportunities and freedom than the other.
This is definitely my favourite of her books so far and I can't wait to see what she comes out with in the future!

Thanks to Allen and Unwin for the review copy!

trigger warnings: loss of loved ones (past and present), plane crash, cancer, infidelity, pedophelia, stalking, sexual harassment, absent father, teen pregnancy, premature birth, sexual assault, attempted rape.