I have to say. I struggled how to rate this. Part 1 was a bit slow and I didn’t connect with the characters much. This surprised me as I’ve read two other books by this author, and while not relating to the MC at all, had not problem connecting. 

However, things picked up in part 2. I started to understand Caren a little more. Still not entirely. Her standoffishness and choices still baffled me. But I got more into her investigation. 

By part 3 I was fully invested in the outcome. I will say that I didn’t think this novel was going to have a twist. I took it at face value thinking that it was more about the roots and history than the crime. But I was wrong. 

Overall, this is a good read that takes the time to set the stage and explore the nuances of how slavery still affects us today. 

Recommend. 


Slight spoiler that’s in no way important to the overall theme or plot of the book:


I do wish that the relationship between Eric and Caren had had a different finish. I get that their relationship was very real. But the romance lover in me wanted a happier ending.