The concept behind this novel is fascinating. Ford frames the narrative around the field of biology known as epigenetics--the idea that memories can be passed down from generation to generation through genes. Starting with Afong Moy--rumored to be the first Chinese woman to set foot on American soil--he traces the lives of seven generations of Moys and how their memories and traumas intertwine. It's a powerful book that examines the lives of these women, but also speaks to the universal hardships women face, including sexism, heartbreak, and misogyny.

All of the women in the Moy family are so vividly drawn, you form an emotional bond with each. However, it's Dorothy who is the one who keeps the story moving forward. Living in 2045 Seattle, she's suffering from episodes where she falls into the lives of the women from her family's past. Her boyfriend/father of her child becomes even more volatile and unyielding when she seeks out help from a practitioner of experimental treatment for epigenetic experiences.

I loved the stories of each woman and the exploration of shared trauma and emotion, yet the ending seemed too convenient to me. It was a shame because the stories of each women leading up to the ending were so engaging. I loved the peeks into the future Ford gave us, too, with the bits of the story that took place in 2045 and 2086. Even with the too-convenient ending, I really enjoyed this book and its clever premise. Absolutely recommend!