February 1, 2022

Black Cake


"...but tradition is only about what people have or have not done; it's not about what they are capable of doing. And it's not about what they will be doing in the future." ~ 55%

I almost gave up at 13% but the power of bookhearts' persuasive positive reviews made me stick with Black Cake. Why? Because it was getting to be too many characters and POVs for my liking. Having finished the novel, I understand it was the right way to tell this story. Let me tell you more.

Two estranged siblings set aside their differences to deal with a puzzling inheritance from their mother. After her death, she leaves behind a traditional Caribbean black cake and an hours-long voice recording. She shares the story of her younger days on the island, the mystery of a long-lost child and other revelations that make the siblings question whether they really knew their mom. As it often happens in real life, secrets are revealed when a matriarch passes away!

Layers on layers on layers. The older generation is a constant backdrop even through the "Now" chapters. It is evident that debut author Charmaine Wilkerson is a grand storyteller that took her time, did the research and appreciates the art of writing. Black Cake is not for the impatient reader. It is a slow methodical journey through a family's secrets, betrayals, relationships and changes over the years. Family drama can be complex, especially in fiction.

Happy Pub Day, Charmaine Wilkerson! Black Cake is available today.

Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins.

Title: Black Cake
Author: Charmaine Wilkerson
Published: February 2022
Pages: 400
Edition: Galley
Genre: Historical Family Fiction
Rating: 🖤 🖤 🖤

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