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valav321's review against another edition
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
kedijahlamara's review against another edition
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
_jamaicangirlreads85's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
WOW! I was NOT expecting all of that! This book goes ALOT deeper that any synopsis or review will give you. I'm so conflicted with my thoughts about this story but only because there really were NO winners here. Efe struggled all her life to be heard and understood, especially after surviving a tragic childhood trauma. Sam, bless his heart, most times only she what he wanted to see but I think he had his wife and daughter's best interest at heart. I did not doubt for a second that he didnt love his wife, though his actions towards her needs could've easily been perceived as selfish. This is a really great book. Of all the things that you could take away from these characters, two things stayed with me are how the pressure of family expectations can lead to your demise and motherhood and the act of mothering looks different for everyone. Who is anyone to judge, not knowing another mother's story. Wow! This one was so complex, so many layers. Marriage, parenting, cultural and traditions, family expectations, sacrifices. I urge you to read this and determine for yourself whose side you'll fall on.
bookphenomena_micky's review against another edition
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
This was a rich introspection on the relationship and life journey of a married couple but damn, it was sad. Early on, I started to catch the vibes that things were going to get rocky and so they did. The themes of womens' choice about motherhood were strong and very welcome but the direction the storyline took was hard to read. It was like watching a car crash in slow motion.
Efe was misunderstood by Sam and her family from about half way and I was so frustrated with people's attitudes and for not seeing what was under her nose. (view spoiler) Sam seemed initially a supportive partner but that partnership was so inadequate.
The way this ended broke my heart but also hardened it at the same time. I can't say I enjoyed this read but I valued it.
Efe was misunderstood by Sam and her family from about half way and I was so frustrated with people's attitudes and for not seeing what was under her nose. (view spoiler) Sam seemed initially a supportive partner but that partnership was so inadequate.
The way this ended broke my heart but also hardened it at the same time. I can't say I enjoyed this read but I valued it.
kez_w's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
kennyt's review against another edition
5.0
WOW. I’m shocked. The tears I cried while reading this book. If there was an option to rate it higher than five stars I would. Raw emotions. Valid emotions. Just obstacles within life…this book was just so heartfelt. I was indifferent at first reading..this is my TOP book for 2024 book read challenge. Just simply amazing. This book is for sure easily in my top 5 books of all time.
cathyb1111's review against another edition
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.25
larsenfoster's review against another edition
4.0
The novel's plot moves slowly, especially at the beginning. Glimpses into Efe & Sam's life over the past 20 years leading up to the recent day. I think this novel is full of relatable characters and tells a story of time, love, regret & missed opportunities. I have been somewhere between 3 and 4 stars because of the ending but I would have preferred it ended almost any other way BUT I can see how it ties the theme full circle and still creates a good ending.