It’s always funny how a story full of trope subversions can be so satisfying to read. I really liked that no one was perfect, especially not adults; even mothers. And that even when they weren’t it never dwindled Mup’s confidence and love for her own.

I liked that it was a family journey with the husband the “damsel”. On the face of it it’s an enjoyable story in its own right. But with interesting themes interwoven so well, such as gender expectations and the weight of expectation placed on the new generation from the previous, it makes the story all the more special if for no other reason (but there are) that it is refreshing and new to read. There’s fascist elements complicating the same problem Mup sees played out from her grandmother. Even well meaning intentions can rob a person of happiness. And sometimes that cruelty, it must be said, comes from ones’ own family.

Can’t wait for the next in the trilogy. The author is very kind on Twitter and it’s no wonder she’s written this book.