a immersive and deft novel that takes so much care with its complicated and nuanced characters. some of the best literary fiction i've read recently. handles topics such as race, racism, colorism, and identity incredibly. some of the best character work i've read as well; desiree and stella and their journeys had me hooked. very poignant and reflective, but handles the generations of the vignes family women with such care. a highlight of the year