Marie-Elena John

A riveting story with ideas so strong and interesting that I readily forgave some flaws in the writing. Can't say I understand others' shock at the depictions or disappointment with the 'magical realism'; if anything, I appreciate the purposeful rejection of magical realism for something powerful, tracing a line through broken stories to connect a truth with history. (Not because I don't love magical realism, but because there is merit in any honest challenge.) Likewise I've no problem with the detached tone (although it wanders). Wonderful female characters who will stay with me for a long time. 4 stars for the occasionally stilted exposition and the lack of resolution in the ending, which felt less like intentional ambiguity and more like the author couldn't figure out how to leave the characters.… (meer)