"She hadn’t realized how long it takes to become somebody else, or how lonely it can be living in a world not meant for you." Bennett captures just how complex race, specifically colorism, is and how important and long-lasting (but not permanent) a single choice can be. The twins, Desiree and Stella are two of the strongest characters I've ever read about, both in the way Bennett makes them come to life, and in the way they face hardships and discrimination. Identity and home matter and everyday we make choices. The secrets and lies we create to protect ourselves or those around us, can ultimately hurt those most important to us if we're not careful.