leekaufman's Reviews (426)

There was so much that I loved about this book. It defies genre, shape-shifting from magic realism to sci-fi, from fantasy to speculative fiction. The tone is dark and haunting, and there is some really stunning writing. Vern is an interesting and difficult protagonist, and the supporting characters felt real too. 

I was frustrated by the pacing; the end was dizzyingly fast and felt too plot-heavy when compared to the slow, atmospheric, tension-filled beginning. There was also a few moments where the narrative shifted to other points of view that were jarring, and didn't feel cohesive in the midst of a beautifully executed close third. 

Beautiful, slow, lyrical prose. I particularly loved how Greenidge wove the water spirit and imagery through Libertie's life. I wanted to know even more about Libertie's Mama, but so much of the complexity and character development came from Libertie herself not understanding her mother.

The world-building was great, especially the descriptions of people, clothing and places. The magic was cool, but I would have loved more of how it worked. The main character Beatrice could have been developed more; her goals and feelings never really change, despite falling in love and learning more about her fate should she get married. Some great secondary characters.