An amazing first novel. Beautifully lyric and lovingly constructed to make a reader rejoice in the language. Horrifying history peopled with extraordinary characters.
I seldom give 5 stars, but this is well worth the attention it is getting. I am still basking in the celebratory feeling that comes at the end of this narrative/novel.
The author explains in his notes what he was trying to get to, and I think he meets the challenge he sets out to conquer.
The telling of the intermingled stories is a bit convoluted, but it is necessary in terms of the time span and the times written about. Remembering the turmoil of the years and the deep terrifying horror of the trade in humans.
What is particularly beautiful is the sharing of story. Storytellers will love this novel.