Compelling and uplifting ... Mottley is an elegant and expressive writer, giving each of her unforgettable characters a fullness and relatability that will appeal to many readers. She also evokes facets of motherhood, alienation, first love, and vulnerability through poetic and stirring imagery.
A poignant and deeply engaging exploration of teenage motherhood ... Mottley skillfully uses the setting to mirror the characters’ internal struggles. The unpredictable forces of nature—hurricanes, alligators, and the ever-present tension of their environment—serve as powerful metaphors for the obstacles they face ... This character-driven story allows each young mother to share her own perspective, making their experiences feel raw and honest. The novel does not shy away from the hardships of teenage motherhood but also highlights the bonds, hopes, and quiet triumphs that come with it ... Through evocative storytelling and a vivid sense of place, this book paints an unforgettable portrait of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of forging one’s path against the odds.
A sensual set of character studies, shaped by compassion and defiance ... Mottley’s lyrical prose and spirited characters are meant to be a counterweight to such reductionism, and there are fine set pieces throughout ... The plot can get soap opera–ish—Simone’s brother, Jayden, is the father of Emory’s child, and romantic squabbles abound ... But the ferocity of her characters gets over, letting an aggressively misunderstood group speak for itself.
