PositiveLos Angeles Review of BooksThere’s a great deal of narrative simmering, but the story never really comes to a boil ... Krilanovich certainly has her fans ... But my readings have left me more puzzled than impressed ... It does improve on the author’s debut effort: there’s an actual plot this time, even if a wandering one, and sharper characterization. And the conclusion is both emotionally moving and stylistically impressive. I’m curious to see what Krilanovich achieves in her next book, but this novel doesn’t fully compel.
RaveLos Angeles Review of BooksWard’s essays frequently leave us gasping—amazed, ashamed. Not only does the author bear witness, but she also simultaneously seeks to move to a position of what she terms \'respair,\' by which she means renewed hope in the face of despair. While our society has not yet come to grips with the evils of slavery and ongoing racism, Ward nevertheless finds moments of human connection ... Ward, finally, believes in love. Her own life, as these essays demonstrate, is testimony to those who have loved her, and though anger courses through her words, she ultimately writes out of love. Despite everything, she still believes.
