Before I begin my rant let me start by saying ya’ll need to read this book ASAP‼️ This was a beautifully written novel filled with so much emotional depth and complex characters that will make your reading experience unforgettable. 

Exploring the complexity of Black womanhood, Black motherhood, mother-daughter relationships, the strain of mending broken maternal bonds, the deep impact of trauma through each generation, how a mother’s experiences can affect her parenting, and how a mother’s shortcomings and faults can be projected onto her child. 

The book follows four generations of complex Black women and the wounds that divide them as they redefine happiness and healing for themselves. There were so many layers to this story it was honest, authentic, and raw. You’ll find yourself sympathizing with each woman in the book. Charlotte wasn’t the best mother to Corrina for many reasons partly due to her relationship with her mother Evelyn. She was running from her past life and instead of confronting the trauma inflicted by her mother she masked the pain with alcohol and drugs. Corrina tried to be a better mother to Camille but fell short. The failed mother-daughter relationship cycle continued through each generation but would stop with Camille as the women collectively decide to focus on her future and put her best interest first. 

Overall, this book was amazing aside from its odd chapter structure the delivery was perfect. The characters are well-fleshed out and there is a seamless flow from one POV to the next. Johnson wrote this book so well you could feel the emotional weight each character had to carry. Her book will encourage readers to examine their own relationship with their mothers while also developing a deeper understanding of how their shared experiences have shaped and impacted their bond. Highly recommend this book.

Trigger warnings: Suicide, alcoholism, drug addiction, teen pregnancy, physical abuse