There were times while reading this book that I put my hand to my heart in sorrow. Much of the time, though, my jaw was clenched in anger. The protagonist, Ana Falcón, is a woman from Peru, trying to keep her family together by any means necessary after immigrating to New York City. There are forces and unspoken rules beyond her control everywhere she turns, determining her fate. The people around Ana seem increasingly dangerous to her well-being, from loan sharks to in-laws and more. There are moments of pure horror; one scene so intense I had to pause because I felt it unfold so viscerally. I'm talking realistic, modern day, living-in-this-world-every-day horror. The most insidious.

Rivero creates an immersive experience through her protagonist; she manages to paint a portrait of Ana that is a test of the reader's empathy. Ana is doing her best, and we are privy to why she makes certain decisions. I would guess most readers are reading this novel from a privileged vantage; we will never be asked to make these same decisions or face similar circumstances. This prods you to find that common ground: you know, being human. Rivero's writing captures Ana's struggle in such a way that asks us to examine ourselves. It's powerful.

I'm not sure you could read this book without having an emotional reaction. I highly recommend, and I think it'd be a great book club pick, too.