This assured debut from Charmaine Wilkerson shares the story of a family torn apart by strife but reunited after their matriarch's death.

Covey Lyncook spends her formative years swimming and baking her beloved black cake in the Caribbean during the 1960s. After her father gets into debt to a mobster, he promises his daughter to the man in marriage. On the day of the marriage, the mobster drops dead from poisoning and Covey disappears under the suspicion of murder.

In the present day, Covey's children, Benny and Bryon, reunite to hear a recording she made before her death. In it she reveals her life as Covey (they know her as Eleanor) and her escape from the Caribbean. She tells them more about a life they've never heard of including her years as a serious swimmer, her challenges in England, and the existence of a sister. Both kids--academic Byron and conflicted Benny--are shocked, but eager to learn more about the mother they never really knew.

As a fan of engrossing family sagas, I really liked this one. The lush descriptions of the Caribbean and food were delectable and the characterizations strong. At times the jumps between time and people (and, occasionally things) slowed the pace a bit, but otherwise this is an emotional, engrossing debut. Give me allll the family dramas, especially ones that are tinged with a bit of mystery and real-life issues like racism, identity, tragedy, and love. I can't wait to see what Charmaine writes next!

Thanks @NetGalley and @penguinrandomhouse for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.