This is probably my first genuine five star in a while. At first, I wasn’t sure of the character development. I’ve noticed similarities between reading other novels from black British authors that sometimes it feels like the  life is happening to the character,  wear with black American authors characters happen to life. 

More and more as the book progressed I started seeing a glimmer within Maddie. That her own perceived brokenness is due to her being a product of her environment. I started seeing her, reclaim her life in such an authentic, heartfelt way. In a way that was clunky, and unsure, and real that I couldn’t help living those struggles with her. 

Through Jess’s writing.  It was so heartfelt, that I saw Maddie starting to happen to her life. As an active participant instead of a passive one. Her growth was incredible.  Her way authentically hold those around her accountable for the hurt that she experience was admirable, and she did it in a way in which she never lost what made Maddie, Maddie. 

I’ve never cried so much reading a book. And I guess that means I loved it.