PositiveToronto Star... relevant, raw, vulnerable—and darkly funny ... [Leilani] has got an ear for a satisfyingly descriptive phrase, and the sharp, witty, dark humour drives the narrative. Luster is, though, very plot-driven and at times moves a little too quickly ... Luster is a much-needed examination of the intersection of Blackness, class, sexuality and power. The characters are well-drawn and easy to relate to, each with their own take on loneliness ... There aren’t many books that discuss the nuances of love and loneliness a young woman of colour faces — and that can often make a person feel that much more alone.
Raven Leilani
RaveToronto StarLuster, New York writer Raven Leilani’s debut novel, grapples with loneliness in a way that is socially relevant, raw, vulnerable—and darkly funny ... Leilani...has got an ear for a satisfyingly descriptive phrase, and the sharp, witty, dark humour drives the narrative. Luster is, though, very plot-driven and at times moves a little too quickly. Still, Luster is a much-needed examination of the intersection of Blackness, class, sexuality and power. The characters are well-drawn and easy to relate to, each with their own take on loneliness: a lack of familial love; a lack of love within a marriage; the lack of others who can relate to your experience.
