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Dominoes
When Layla and Andy first meet, they can't believe they share the same surname. It feels like fate, almost too romantic to be true. But Sera, Layla's best friend, has her doubts about Andy. As the pair fall deeper and deeper in love, she becomes more and more vocal about Layla settling down with a white boy. And then, only a few weeks before their wedding, Layla discovers the possible truth behind their shared surname. What seemed like a fairy-tale romance is rapidly derailed. In part propelled by Sera's rising anger, Layla begins to uncover parts of her history and identity that she had never imagined -- or, perhaps, had simply learnt to ignore.
329 pages, Paperback
First published March 7, 2024
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9035 people want to read
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May 10, 2024
I hate to say it but this may be the worst book I’ve read in years.
It follows a mixed-race, half-Black, half-white woman who’s about to marry a white man. With their wedding coming up, our protagonist Layla realizes that her fiancé’s ancestors likely enslaved Layla’s in Jamaica. Layla goes on a guilt trip about what this means for her and Andy’s relationship.
I’m actually seething as I type this out so let me try to express myself clearly. I was intrigued by this book’s premise and thought, okay, a book that questions romantic relationships with white people, I dig it, let’s see how this goes. But I felt that Phoebe McIntosh did a horrible job of addressing this topic.
I think my main overwhelming frustration with this novel is how Layla, our light-skinned, biracial protagonist, treats her best friend, Sera, a monoracial dark-skinned Black woman. I’ll start with one just absolutely wild incident. At one point in the novel Sera comments on a Twitter video that shows a Black male teenager getting harassed by white police offers. Then, Andy, Layla’s fiancée, comments and “corrects” Sera (he literally says “But worth pointing out – stats show S&S effective at keeping us safe. And don’t forget, plenty of white people get stopped too!”) Sera tells him that his voice isn’t needed, which, totally true.
What’s maddening about this incident is that Layla literally gets angry at her friend Sera for calling out Andy???? Why are you going to get mad at your Black friend for calling out your mediocre white husband for making an unnecessary (and actually racist, colorblind, ignorant) comment on a video about police being anti-Black??? I was bewildered because Layla never even apologies to Sera for her behavior. Layla does bring this incident up with Andy and Andy somewhat takes accountability, which Layla pretty much immediately accepts and forgives him for – meanwhile never even thinking about the labor Sera had to put in to call Andy out for his racism in the first place.
This dynamic between Layla and Sera is continued throughout the book. Layla basically blames Sera for making her feel guilty instead of truly seeing where Sera is coming from. Layla also has this weird reflection about how yes, Sera has faced more discrimination than Layla (it’s implied that Layla recognizes this is because of Sera’s darker skin tone), but Layla then pulls a “if only she could see that I’ve suffered too as a biracial woman.” I’m not minimizing that biracial people face unique forms of racism and alienation but I thought it was just atrocious that Layla continued to center herself. Sera goes through a breakup during the book and Layla never even asks about it or extends Sera care – Layla is just upset that Sera won’t wholeheartedly accept her marriage to a mediocre white man. And McIntosh essentially communicates that Layla’s behavior and mindset is acceptable. Just maddening.
Finally, I thought the dynamic between Layla and Andy was awful to read about. I feel like McIntosh’s messaging was essentially, as long as you name some race dynamics and you love one another, past historical systems of oppression don’t matter. Like wtf??? Andy literally never took accountability for his treatment of Sera and acts like he’s a victim (which is ironic given that Andy is a white man and Sera is a Black woman). Neither Layla nor Andy actually took any action to address the systems of injustice, anti-Black racism, etc. that affect those around them. The message was basically “you love who you love and that’s what matters at the end of the day” with no real critical thinking about the politics of desire, how white people are unjustly glorified in media (including this book itself), how people of color are denigrated and viewed as unattractive compared to white people, etc.
I’d truly not recommend this book, not even as a hate read. I feel like it appeals to white people and people of color who don’t want to think critically about how race and issues of racial justice affect their relationships. And for people who think their friends don’t matter to them that much. Also, the writing was not memorable or impressive. Anyway, I’ll end this review with some books I’ve loved over the years with people of color thriving in relationships with themselves and other people of color: Such a Lonely, Lovely Road by Kagiso Lesego Molope, Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows by Balli Kaur Jaswal, and Picture Us in the Light by Kelly Loy Gilbert.
It follows a mixed-race, half-Black, half-white woman who’s about to marry a white man. With their wedding coming up, our protagonist Layla realizes that her fiancé’s ancestors likely enslaved Layla’s in Jamaica. Layla goes on a guilt trip about what this means for her and Andy’s relationship.
I’m actually seething as I type this out so let me try to express myself clearly. I was intrigued by this book’s premise and thought, okay, a book that questions romantic relationships with white people, I dig it, let’s see how this goes. But I felt that Phoebe McIntosh did a horrible job of addressing this topic.
I think my main overwhelming frustration with this novel is how Layla, our light-skinned, biracial protagonist, treats her best friend, Sera, a monoracial dark-skinned Black woman. I’ll start with one just absolutely wild incident. At one point in the novel Sera comments on a Twitter video that shows a Black male teenager getting harassed by white police offers. Then, Andy, Layla’s fiancée, comments and “corrects” Sera (he literally says “But worth pointing out – stats show S&S effective at keeping us safe. And don’t forget, plenty of white people get stopped too!”) Sera tells him that his voice isn’t needed, which, totally true.
What’s maddening about this incident is that Layla literally gets angry at her friend Sera for calling out Andy???? Why are you going to get mad at your Black friend for calling out your mediocre white husband for making an unnecessary (and actually racist, colorblind, ignorant) comment on a video about police being anti-Black??? I was bewildered because Layla never even apologies to Sera for her behavior. Layla does bring this incident up with Andy and Andy somewhat takes accountability, which Layla pretty much immediately accepts and forgives him for – meanwhile never even thinking about the labor Sera had to put in to call Andy out for his racism in the first place.
This dynamic between Layla and Sera is continued throughout the book. Layla basically blames Sera for making her feel guilty instead of truly seeing where Sera is coming from. Layla also has this weird reflection about how yes, Sera has faced more discrimination than Layla (it’s implied that Layla recognizes this is because of Sera’s darker skin tone), but Layla then pulls a “if only she could see that I’ve suffered too as a biracial woman.” I’m not minimizing that biracial people face unique forms of racism and alienation but I thought it was just atrocious that Layla continued to center herself. Sera goes through a breakup during the book and Layla never even asks about it or extends Sera care – Layla is just upset that Sera won’t wholeheartedly accept her marriage to a mediocre white man. And McIntosh essentially communicates that Layla’s behavior and mindset is acceptable. Just maddening.
Finally, I thought the dynamic between Layla and Andy was awful to read about. I feel like McIntosh’s messaging was essentially, as long as you name some race dynamics and you love one another, past historical systems of oppression don’t matter. Like wtf??? Andy literally never took accountability for his treatment of Sera and acts like he’s a victim (which is ironic given that Andy is a white man and Sera is a Black woman). Neither Layla nor Andy actually took any action to address the systems of injustice, anti-Black racism, etc. that affect those around them. The message was basically “you love who you love and that’s what matters at the end of the day” with no real critical thinking about the politics of desire, how white people are unjustly glorified in media (including this book itself), how people of color are denigrated and viewed as unattractive compared to white people, etc.
I’d truly not recommend this book, not even as a hate read. I feel like it appeals to white people and people of color who don’t want to think critically about how race and issues of racial justice affect their relationships. And for people who think their friends don’t matter to them that much. Also, the writing was not memorable or impressive. Anyway, I’ll end this review with some books I’ve loved over the years with people of color thriving in relationships with themselves and other people of color: Such a Lonely, Lovely Road by Kagiso Lesego Molope, Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows by Balli Kaur Jaswal, and Picture Us in the Light by Kelly Loy Gilbert.
February 1, 2024
The premise of Dominoes really drew me in. Just a month before her wedding, a mixed race woman of Jamaican descent is confronted with the fact that her white fiancé’s family might have been slave owners of her ancestors.
The beginning of the book came across as something else though. I was starting to wonder if I’d somehow gotten a romantic women’s lit book instead. All about their meet cute and her bride’s maid’s delay in scheduling the hen do. But stick with it, about the 30% mark it gets to the meat of the issue and it gets more intense. There’s one scene that will have everyone thinking of Harry and Meghan.
It’s a book that really makes you think. And it’s not that there are easy answers here. Because it’s not just about the question of race, reparations, privilege and what the present owes to the past. There’s also the ability to honestly communicate. The book is told solely from Layla’s PoV and her anguish was extremely well done. But there was a part of me that would have loved to have heard more from Andy and Sera.
Macintosh does a great job of throwing in small scenes with a large impact that do a great job of pointing out how prevalent racism still is, both the casual and in your face types.
I had read an historical fiction that dealt with how England paid reparations to the slave holders (and also required the slaves to stay on the plantations as “apprentices”), but this was the first book I’ve read that dealt with the modern take on it.
I liked that McIntosh doesn’t try to settle for the easy answers and that there’s an acknowledged open end to some of the issues. Layla comes to things slowly and many people are forced to think hard. This would make for a very interesting book club selection.
My thanks to Netgalley and Random House for an advance copy of this book.
The beginning of the book came across as something else though. I was starting to wonder if I’d somehow gotten a romantic women’s lit book instead. All about their meet cute and her bride’s maid’s delay in scheduling the hen do. But stick with it, about the 30% mark it gets to the meat of the issue and it gets more intense. There’s one scene that will have everyone thinking of Harry and Meghan.
It’s a book that really makes you think. And it’s not that there are easy answers here. Because it’s not just about the question of race, reparations, privilege and what the present owes to the past. There’s also the ability to honestly communicate. The book is told solely from Layla’s PoV and her anguish was extremely well done. But there was a part of me that would have loved to have heard more from Andy and Sera.
Macintosh does a great job of throwing in small scenes with a large impact that do a great job of pointing out how prevalent racism still is, both the casual and in your face types.
I had read an historical fiction that dealt with how England paid reparations to the slave holders (and also required the slaves to stay on the plantations as “apprentices”), but this was the first book I’ve read that dealt with the modern take on it.
I liked that McIntosh doesn’t try to settle for the easy answers and that there’s an acknowledged open end to some of the issues. Layla comes to things slowly and many people are forced to think hard. This would make for a very interesting book club selection.
My thanks to Netgalley and Random House for an advance copy of this book.
June 4, 2024
Re-Read this book for BookOfCinz Book Club
This is an exceptional read for book clubs, so many things to discuss.
What an interesting read! I am still thinking about this days after finishing the book.
In Dominoes we meet Layla, British-Jamaican woman living in London. She’s got a Black Jamaican mother and a white father who she’s never met. Layla grew up with her Mom and her Grandfather with the company of her best friend Sera.
The book opens with Layla and Sera going to a house party. Layla meets Andy and finds out they share the same last name: McKinnon. They instantly hit it off, they fall in love hard and fast. They move in together, Andy is attentive, a great listener, he’s everything Layla wants in a partner and in no time he proposes and they start planning their wedding.
With 29 days to go til their wedding Sera shares her concerns about Layla marrying a white man who has her last name and is from a Scottish background. Could it be his forefathers were slave masters? Sera encourages Layla to research their past before committing to a marriage, because, “how are you going to marry a man whose family may have enslaved your family?”
For the first time in her life Layla spends time researching her history, asking about her family. She must know about her history and identity and what role Andy’s family may have played in the slave trade. She visits Jamaica with her family to learn more, while she loves Andy, she is not able to attend the wedding until the knows the “truth”….
This book really had my head spinning because… what you mean this is the premise of the book? You love a man but his generational wealth is from the slave trade?!!! I am not going to lie, I did have some moment where I went “mmmmm what is going on here?” I will say this book made me feel uncomfortable and I am sure it will give people that feeling as well. It is a really great read because it brings to the front questions we all need to answer and reckon with.
This is an exceptional read for book clubs, so many things to discuss.
What an interesting read! I am still thinking about this days after finishing the book.
In Dominoes we meet Layla, British-Jamaican woman living in London. She’s got a Black Jamaican mother and a white father who she’s never met. Layla grew up with her Mom and her Grandfather with the company of her best friend Sera.
The book opens with Layla and Sera going to a house party. Layla meets Andy and finds out they share the same last name: McKinnon. They instantly hit it off, they fall in love hard and fast. They move in together, Andy is attentive, a great listener, he’s everything Layla wants in a partner and in no time he proposes and they start planning their wedding.
With 29 days to go til their wedding Sera shares her concerns about Layla marrying a white man who has her last name and is from a Scottish background. Could it be his forefathers were slave masters? Sera encourages Layla to research their past before committing to a marriage, because, “how are you going to marry a man whose family may have enslaved your family?”
For the first time in her life Layla spends time researching her history, asking about her family. She must know about her history and identity and what role Andy’s family may have played in the slave trade. She visits Jamaica with her family to learn more, while she loves Andy, she is not able to attend the wedding until the knows the “truth”….
This book really had my head spinning because… what you mean this is the premise of the book? You love a man but his generational wealth is from the slave trade?!!! I am not going to lie, I did have some moment where I went “mmmmm what is going on here?” I will say this book made me feel uncomfortable and I am sure it will give people that feeling as well. It is a really great read because it brings to the front questions we all need to answer and reckon with.
March 22, 2024
This book got me so annoyed 😤
It’s about a white-passing black lady who gets into a relationship with a white man. All is good and they decide to get married. Except the lady’s bff is not happy about it at all and I’m kinda getting the vibe that the bff might be ready to ditch the entire friendship, you know?
An exploration into the British slave trade and its legacy, was very interested to see how it ended.. but it kinda fell flat.
Think this would work better as a play and not a book.
It’s about a white-passing black lady who gets into a relationship with a white man. All is good and they decide to get married. Except the lady’s bff is not happy about it at all and I’m kinda getting the vibe that the bff might be ready to ditch the entire friendship, you know?
An exploration into the British slave trade and its legacy, was very interested to see how it ended.. but it kinda fell flat.
Think this would work better as a play and not a book.
March 17, 2024
The best friend really annoyed me.
December 25, 2023
This was an eye opening novel for me in more than one way. First of all this book takes place in London and is about a mixed race woman, Layla, who falls for a white man, Andy. It turns out that they both have the same last name and there is the possibility that Andy's ancestors could have been the slave owners of Layla's family. Layla's best friend tries to open up Layla's eyes to this fact and this sends Layla on a personal quest of discovery.
As an American, I never gave much thought to just how rampant racism could be in other parts of the world and the impact that slavery had in other places like Great Britain. It really opened my eyes to the fact that it is not just the United States. I also feel that reading a story like this helps me understand the struggles others are facing and really lets me into their point of view.
Besides what I learned, I just thought this was a good story about a young woman who wants to get married. It was interesting to read about her life and her family. I really did not like her friend Sera but I understand what an important role she played for Layla and her personal journey. There was a lot to unpack and really digest about this story. An interesting read!
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for this ARC.
As an American, I never gave much thought to just how rampant racism could be in other parts of the world and the impact that slavery had in other places like Great Britain. It really opened my eyes to the fact that it is not just the United States. I also feel that reading a story like this helps me understand the struggles others are facing and really lets me into their point of view.
Besides what I learned, I just thought this was a good story about a young woman who wants to get married. It was interesting to read about her life and her family. I really did not like her friend Sera but I understand what an important role she played for Layla and her personal journey. There was a lot to unpack and really digest about this story. An interesting read!
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for this ARC.
March 22, 2024
Not giving anything away (it's in the description on the cover) by saying that a bride to be finds out her intended is from a family that formerly "owned" hers as slaves hundreds of years before. Starting out seeming as if it were going to be fluff, it became serious and addressed its subject intelligently with believable reactions on all parties. This was a new viewpoint on this scourge, and one that made sense.
March 30, 2024
This was a heavy read. I had limited knowledge of Scotland's ties to Jamaica and slavery, and I learned a lot in this book. From an emotional standpoint, there was a lot to unpack here. I can't imagine living through a situation like this or what decision I might make about marrying a man whose ancestors were my family's slaveowners. Layla, our MC, was a great character. She worked through so many emotions throughout the story. It was hard to watch her work through the situation and the way that her best friend treated her throughout the book was very frustrating. I think she found allies in unexpected places, but it wasn't always an easy process. I'm glad she found her roots, even if this was such a painful way to do so. It's a beautiful, heartbreaking book, and I highly recommend it.
A huge thank you to the author and the publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
A huge thank you to the author and the publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
December 24, 2023
“I would be looked at shamefully and told I was not my ancestors’ wildest dreams but, in fact, their worst nightmare.”
An incredibly thought-provoking plot. I was hooked reading about Layla, a British black woman, having to battle with the haunting facts of her white fiancée’s past while trying to decide what’s right for her future.
Could you marry into a family that once owned yours in the slave trade?
Two thirds of this book is heartbreaking to get through, which is very much the point. Layla finds herself having to choose between her best friend and the love of the life, between her head and her heart, and has to dig deep into her own unknown history, before the time leading up to her wedding runs out.
The plot and dialogue are both incredible, but there were tons of dull descriptions that became tedious to read in places. I often found myself skimming these lengthy details trying to get back to the plot. It’s such an interesting, important and heart-moving book, but the disappointing writing style makes it a difficult one to rate.
Favourite quote:
“Go live, free. Go love, free. This is di most important t’ing you can do to honour our ancestors.”
An incredibly thought-provoking plot. I was hooked reading about Layla, a British black woman, having to battle with the haunting facts of her white fiancée’s past while trying to decide what’s right for her future.
Could you marry into a family that once owned yours in the slave trade?
Two thirds of this book is heartbreaking to get through, which is very much the point. Layla finds herself having to choose between her best friend and the love of the life, between her head and her heart, and has to dig deep into her own unknown history, before the time leading up to her wedding runs out.
The plot and dialogue are both incredible, but there were tons of dull descriptions that became tedious to read in places. I often found myself skimming these lengthy details trying to get back to the plot. It’s such an interesting, important and heart-moving book, but the disappointing writing style makes it a difficult one to rate.
Favourite quote:
“Go live, free. Go love, free. This is di most important t’ing you can do to honour our ancestors.”
2024
June 3, 2024📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Trade Paperbacks
February 29, 2024
This book took me a little bit to get into & feel the flow of the story, as sometimes happens in a book.
Once things started to connect, I really enjoyed it & loved Layla.
Layla is a light skinned biracial British woman of Jamaican descent. She is in the chaos & excitement of planning her wedding to the man of her dreams & she loves sharing all of this with her long time bestie-Sera, but things change with Sera & they finally confront each other on what's going on.
What Sera shares with Layla sends Layla on a mental, emotional & questioning journey & what she finds out is not what she may have expected.
It was a great story.
Thank you Random House for this book & to give my own honest review.
Once things started to connect, I really enjoyed it & loved Layla.
Layla is a light skinned biracial British woman of Jamaican descent. She is in the chaos & excitement of planning her wedding to the man of her dreams & she loves sharing all of this with her long time bestie-Sera, but things change with Sera & they finally confront each other on what's going on.
What Sera shares with Layla sends Layla on a mental, emotional & questioning journey & what she finds out is not what she may have expected.
It was a great story.
Thank you Random House for this book & to give my own honest review.
January 26, 2025
I was hooked by the premise and wasn’t disappointed. the book doesn’t go too deep, it’s definitely not a profound exploration of racism or family history but from a personal perspective it was enough. enough to look at things from a different perspective and wonder what I’ve done. the characters didn’t feel too basic or stereotypical, which is rare, and I’m happy there wasn’t a 100% cheesy ending
April 8, 2024
This novel is about how historic racism and systems of slavery can cause hurt, divisions and impossible choices among people still today. Phoebe McIntosh does a beautiful job depicting this in what is, in essence, a romance novel — a tender and gripping love story imbued in history with a side of humor and self discovery.
The plot is centered upon a fascinating, important and shameful piece of British history that I hadn’t known anything about before - basically reverse reparations - and traces how these inequities and injustices are steeped into its social and economic fabric. The fallout, among people who genuinely love each other, reflects how people of different backgrounds respond to that history when their core identities and relationships hang in the balance.
A powerful illustration of how structural, historic, interpersonal and internalized racism pervade our cultures and continue to privilege the privileged and harm those most impacted by racism and slavery. And also of how acts of courage and kindness, big and small, really matter. All of that makes this my favorite kind of romance novel! Substantive, with conflict that is complex and not contrived, I felt for the characters and learned something along the way. Highly recommend.
Thanks to NetGalley and Random House for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
The plot is centered upon a fascinating, important and shameful piece of British history that I hadn’t known anything about before - basically reverse reparations - and traces how these inequities and injustices are steeped into its social and economic fabric. The fallout, among people who genuinely love each other, reflects how people of different backgrounds respond to that history when their core identities and relationships hang in the balance.
A powerful illustration of how structural, historic, interpersonal and internalized racism pervade our cultures and continue to privilege the privileged and harm those most impacted by racism and slavery. And also of how acts of courage and kindness, big and small, really matter. All of that makes this my favorite kind of romance novel! Substantive, with conflict that is complex and not contrived, I felt for the characters and learned something along the way. Highly recommend.
Thanks to NetGalley and Random House for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 16, 2024
Rounded to 4.5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
CONTENT WARNING: racist microaggressions, mention of enslavement, grief, discussion of police brutality and institutional racism, racism
This is one of those books that I was offered by a publisher, and I’m so glad it was offered to me. Dominoes is a book that I hadn’t heard about prior to that email, but it sounded fascinating and I can’t resist a deep dive into family history in a story, especially in a contemporary fiction book.
The start of the story sets up the frame for everything that is going to happen, allowing us to get to know Layla and the circles that she moves in. She’s a teacher, works with her best friend Sera, and gets into a relationship with a white man who seems like a dream and coincidentally has the same last name as her (no relation). The relationship unfolds at record speed, helped along by the pandemic restrictions, and before long, they are in the final countdown to their wedding.
But as the big day gets closer, Layla’s life suddenly becomes difficult. She finds herself feeling more and more distant from Sera at a time when she feels the need for her bestie more than ever, and can’t help but think that the fact that Andy is white is contributing to the strained interactions between Sera and herself, but wonders if they are just drifting apart.
When Sera pushes Layla to research her own background and family history, as well as the origins of her own last name, Layla takes the suggestion and makes a shocking discovery: Andy’s ancestors more than likely enslaved Layla’s ancestors in Jamaica, and the compensation for the loss of income after emancipation contributed to their fortune today, Layla experiences an internal crisis and isn’t sure who she can discuss this with.
I found Layla to be immensely intriguing and a highly likable and relatable character. She’s thoughtful, insightful, intelligent, and not impulsive. Initially, her conflict seems to be between fighting and accepting change in her relationship with Sera, as she struggles to accept that they appear to be drifting apart. But as the story goes on, the author introduces some deeper themes and discusses them through the lens of Layla’s experiences—racism and how being mixed-race affects Layla’s self-concept and place in society as a woman of color; the pressure to play up Eurocentric features in various situations, such as straightening her hair for events; how interracial relationships can impact friendships; police brutality and institutional racism; the lingering effects of enslavement and how it still impacts people nearly 200 years later; and how commonly racist microaggressions occur and why:
“I was always asked where I was from … No … no, where I’m really from. Because it was obvious there would be something—an interesting mix of this or that—that everyone was entitled to know about.”
While the story starts out lighthearted, it moves into a much heavier topic matter, but the author still manages to maintain a tone that incorporates humor and fun into the story. The main character is still a young woman, and life has to include fun. There are also some flashback moments that highlight major experiences in Layla’s life that had a huge impact on the woman she is today. I loved getting to know her better over the course of the story, and seeing how she absorbed new information and adapted to that and new situations, although reading large portions of dialogue in Jamaican patois made me feel like I was missing out on actually hearing one of the most lyrical and great-sounding accents, so the next time I read this one will probably be on audiobook. Overall, this is a fantastic book, and I found it to be really enjoyable. This is one that I can easily recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
CONTENT WARNING: racist microaggressions, mention of enslavement, grief, discussion of police brutality and institutional racism, racism
This is one of those books that I was offered by a publisher, and I’m so glad it was offered to me. Dominoes is a book that I hadn’t heard about prior to that email, but it sounded fascinating and I can’t resist a deep dive into family history in a story, especially in a contemporary fiction book.
The start of the story sets up the frame for everything that is going to happen, allowing us to get to know Layla and the circles that she moves in. She’s a teacher, works with her best friend Sera, and gets into a relationship with a white man who seems like a dream and coincidentally has the same last name as her (no relation). The relationship unfolds at record speed, helped along by the pandemic restrictions, and before long, they are in the final countdown to their wedding.
But as the big day gets closer, Layla’s life suddenly becomes difficult. She finds herself feeling more and more distant from Sera at a time when she feels the need for her bestie more than ever, and can’t help but think that the fact that Andy is white is contributing to the strained interactions between Sera and herself, but wonders if they are just drifting apart.
When Sera pushes Layla to research her own background and family history, as well as the origins of her own last name, Layla takes the suggestion and makes a shocking discovery: Andy’s ancestors more than likely enslaved Layla’s ancestors in Jamaica, and the compensation for the loss of income after emancipation contributed to their fortune today, Layla experiences an internal crisis and isn’t sure who she can discuss this with.
I found Layla to be immensely intriguing and a highly likable and relatable character. She’s thoughtful, insightful, intelligent, and not impulsive. Initially, her conflict seems to be between fighting and accepting change in her relationship with Sera, as she struggles to accept that they appear to be drifting apart. But as the story goes on, the author introduces some deeper themes and discusses them through the lens of Layla’s experiences—racism and how being mixed-race affects Layla’s self-concept and place in society as a woman of color; the pressure to play up Eurocentric features in various situations, such as straightening her hair for events; how interracial relationships can impact friendships; police brutality and institutional racism; the lingering effects of enslavement and how it still impacts people nearly 200 years later; and how commonly racist microaggressions occur and why:
“I was always asked where I was from … No … no, where I’m really from. Because it was obvious there would be something—an interesting mix of this or that—that everyone was entitled to know about.”
While the story starts out lighthearted, it moves into a much heavier topic matter, but the author still manages to maintain a tone that incorporates humor and fun into the story. The main character is still a young woman, and life has to include fun. There are also some flashback moments that highlight major experiences in Layla’s life that had a huge impact on the woman she is today. I loved getting to know her better over the course of the story, and seeing how she absorbed new information and adapted to that and new situations, although reading large portions of dialogue in Jamaican patois made me feel like I was missing out on actually hearing one of the most lyrical and great-sounding accents, so the next time I read this one will probably be on audiobook. Overall, this is a fantastic book, and I found it to be really enjoyable. This is one that I can easily recommend.
January 27, 2024
Dominoes had me gripped right from the start. McIntosh has served up an absolute corcker of a book!
Are you close to your best friend? Would you listen if they told you not to marry who you think is the love of your life? Especialy when the question revolves around the colour of their skin?
Layla and Andy are due to be married when Layla's friend Sera throws a spanner in the works; why would Layla marry a man who is white?
McIntosh' narrative is authentic, the key themes woven into the story with integrity and grace and voices given to all. This will be a very important book in 2024 and beyon
Thank you very much to NetGalley for the eARC of this incredible book. Myy review is given voluntarily
Are you close to your best friend? Would you listen if they told you not to marry who you think is the love of your life? Especialy when the question revolves around the colour of their skin?
Layla and Andy are due to be married when Layla's friend Sera throws a spanner in the works; why would Layla marry a man who is white?
McIntosh' narrative is authentic, the key themes woven into the story with integrity and grace and voices given to all. This will be a very important book in 2024 and beyon
Thank you very much to NetGalley for the eARC of this incredible book. Myy review is given voluntarily
December 19, 2023
Such a thought provoking read. Layla, a biracial woman, is getting married to Andy, a white man. And the coincidence is, they have the same last name! But Layla's BFF, has doubts about the mixed marriage and eventually confronts Layla with Andy's family history of being enslavers in Jamaica. What was done so well was Layla's internal conflict with her love of Andy as well as the love of her family and heritage. And, that it's not so black and white. This would be a great book group book.
I received an arc from the publisher but all opinions are my own.
I received an arc from the publisher but all opinions are my own.
March 3, 2024
History casts a long shadow..
When Andy & Layla meet at a party the attraction is immediate. Fast forward a few months and they're engaged. It's always been a source of fun that they already have the same surname but when Layla is forced to look further into their history, she uncovers the stain of slavery and its impact on their history and future.
I really enjoyed this book. It starts with a simple love story and expands into an exploration of racism, slavery, heritage and identity.
I was really interested in Laylas development. Despite her Jamaican background, she has used her light skin to 'pass' but when she is forced into action, she really grows to embrace her heritage, initiating a change not just in herself but also in her new family.
Some parts left me angry and frustrated. Particularly the parts that hightlighted that for many people we've not that far from the inherent racism of slavery.
All in all a well written and thought provoking read that I would definitely recommend
When Andy & Layla meet at a party the attraction is immediate. Fast forward a few months and they're engaged. It's always been a source of fun that they already have the same surname but when Layla is forced to look further into their history, she uncovers the stain of slavery and its impact on their history and future.
I really enjoyed this book. It starts with a simple love story and expands into an exploration of racism, slavery, heritage and identity.
I was really interested in Laylas development. Despite her Jamaican background, she has used her light skin to 'pass' but when she is forced into action, she really grows to embrace her heritage, initiating a change not just in herself but also in her new family.
Some parts left me angry and frustrated. Particularly the parts that hightlighted that for many people we've not that far from the inherent racism of slavery.
All in all a well written and thought provoking read that I would definitely recommend
December 26, 2023
A solid debut with a thought provoking plot. I found myself wanting to take a position on who was right and who was wrong and that brought home the point of the book for me - that there's sometimes just grey when we're searching for black and white. I wish that Andy's character had been flushed out more so I had a better understanding of their relationship. I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 4, 2023
Freaking amazing!!! Insanely tough subject but so beautifully, earnestly and honestly written. Looking at our personal and world histories is so imperative to building a better world.
A delightful surprise find for me at an Queens bookstore wrapped up as a blind date book. Go read it!
A delightful surprise find for me at an Queens bookstore wrapped up as a blind date book. Go read it!
February 1, 2024
Layla, a British-Jamaican woman living in London, is about to marry Andy, a white man she deeply loves. However, a month before the wedding, her best friend Sera raises concerns about the possibility that Andy's ancestors might have been slave owners of Layla's family. Both Layla and Andy share the last name McKinnon, adding to the uncertainty.
With just 29 days left until the wedding, Sera urges Layla to research their shared history before tying the knot. Layla, for the first time, delves into her family's past, determined to uncover the truth about Andy's family's potential involvement in the slave trade. Despite her love for Andy, Layla cannot proceed with the wedding until she unravels the mysteries of her own heritage.
The story unfolds in London and revolves around Layla's emotional journey as she grapples with the possibility of marrying into a family that might have enslaved her own. Is Layla making a mistake by considering marriage to a man whose family history could be tied to her ancestors' enslavement? What would her ancestors think of her had they been here to witness this? Will she lose her best friend if she chooses her fiancé?
“I would be looked at shamefully and told I was not my ancestors’ wildest dreams but, in fact, their worst nightmare.”
The blurb caught my attention, but the start of the book didn't match my expectations. It seemed a bit cheesy, and Layla came off as cliché. However, I persisted, and things improved not long after when the story got more intense.
“How beautiful the world is sometimes, when it is silent and still and not doing anything to hurt us.”
There were moments that made me uncomfortable and confused at times. It was a thought provoking read. Certain characters annoyed me intermittently, and then, I found myself saying, "you know what, you do you." It highlights the lack of clear-cut answers in Layla's tough situation. Interestingly, it was Layla's connection with Sera that resonated with me more than with Andy.
“I was going to have to choose between my wedding and my best friend. Between losing my soulmate and losing my soulmate.”
That quote about choosing between the wedding and her best friend really tugs at the heartstrings. Friendships can be just as complex and challenging as romantic relationships, and it's cool that the book explores that dynamic. That aspect hit home for me; the writing skilfully portrayed the intricate dynamics of friendships evolving amidst life changes, not just in challenging scenarios like this. I found it so interesting that Layla’s jealousy and insecurities showed up so prevalently in her friendship with Sera but she was more sure and confident of her relationship with Andy.
“Friendships change and go through things because people do. Instead of having expectations of other people, all you can do is take responsibility for yourself.”
Thank you to NetGalley and RandomHouse for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
With just 29 days left until the wedding, Sera urges Layla to research their shared history before tying the knot. Layla, for the first time, delves into her family's past, determined to uncover the truth about Andy's family's potential involvement in the slave trade. Despite her love for Andy, Layla cannot proceed with the wedding until she unravels the mysteries of her own heritage.
The story unfolds in London and revolves around Layla's emotional journey as she grapples with the possibility of marrying into a family that might have enslaved her own. Is Layla making a mistake by considering marriage to a man whose family history could be tied to her ancestors' enslavement? What would her ancestors think of her had they been here to witness this? Will she lose her best friend if she chooses her fiancé?
“I would be looked at shamefully and told I was not my ancestors’ wildest dreams but, in fact, their worst nightmare.”
The blurb caught my attention, but the start of the book didn't match my expectations. It seemed a bit cheesy, and Layla came off as cliché. However, I persisted, and things improved not long after when the story got more intense.
“How beautiful the world is sometimes, when it is silent and still and not doing anything to hurt us.”
There were moments that made me uncomfortable and confused at times. It was a thought provoking read. Certain characters annoyed me intermittently, and then, I found myself saying, "you know what, you do you." It highlights the lack of clear-cut answers in Layla's tough situation. Interestingly, it was Layla's connection with Sera that resonated with me more than with Andy.
“I was going to have to choose between my wedding and my best friend. Between losing my soulmate and losing my soulmate.”
That quote about choosing between the wedding and her best friend really tugs at the heartstrings. Friendships can be just as complex and challenging as romantic relationships, and it's cool that the book explores that dynamic. That aspect hit home for me; the writing skilfully portrayed the intricate dynamics of friendships evolving amidst life changes, not just in challenging scenarios like this. I found it so interesting that Layla’s jealousy and insecurities showed up so prevalently in her friendship with Sera but she was more sure and confident of her relationship with Andy.
“Friendships change and go through things because people do. Instead of having expectations of other people, all you can do is take responsibility for yourself.”
Thank you to NetGalley and RandomHouse for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 26, 2024
#Netgalley
I finished Dominoes yesterday, and I added a synopsis of the book to my stories because I feel the concept of this one is so interesting, and it really hasn’t received enough love on #bookstagram. So here starts my one woman mission to get this on people’s radar!
Layla is a British, mixed-race woman. She has a black Jamaican mum, and a white dad she doesn’t know. Plus her lovely Jamaican grandad who is very much her father figure. Her best friend Sera, also black, is her best friend and closest work colleague; both her and Layla are secondary school teachers, figuring out their lives as they go.
All is well then until Layla has a chance encounter with Andy; a white man of Scottish descent. They both have the same surname, which seems like a wild coincidence, but as the book progresses, may in fact not be at all (foreshadowing 👀).
They instantly fall for each other, and we fast forward a bit to their impending nuptials. 29 days before the wedding and maid of honour Sera suggests Layla look into their family histories a bit more before saying “I do”.
After a little digging, Layla is shocked to discover that Andy’s ancestors may have enslaved her ancestors. A trip to Jamaica is on the cards, more research, and plenty of soul searching.
I really loved this book.
The characters and dialogue all felt so real to me; I loved all the flashbacks to years of friendship between Sera and Layla in particular. The author does an excellent job of making them three dimensional people; I felt like I grew to know them over the course of the book and really wanted to keep reading to find out more about them.
The main storyline itself was so interesting; thought provoking and fresh, I don’t think I’ve read anything else like it. It would be a perfect book club choice too as there’s so much to discuss in here.
I highly recommend #Dominoes, it’s already on my “best books of the year” list and we’re only in July! 😅
With many thanks to @netgalley and @vintagebooks for the early copy, all opinions are my own. Dominoes is available to buy now
I finished Dominoes yesterday, and I added a synopsis of the book to my stories because I feel the concept of this one is so interesting, and it really hasn’t received enough love on #bookstagram. So here starts my one woman mission to get this on people’s radar!
Layla is a British, mixed-race woman. She has a black Jamaican mum, and a white dad she doesn’t know. Plus her lovely Jamaican grandad who is very much her father figure. Her best friend Sera, also black, is her best friend and closest work colleague; both her and Layla are secondary school teachers, figuring out their lives as they go.
All is well then until Layla has a chance encounter with Andy; a white man of Scottish descent. They both have the same surname, which seems like a wild coincidence, but as the book progresses, may in fact not be at all (foreshadowing 👀).
They instantly fall for each other, and we fast forward a bit to their impending nuptials. 29 days before the wedding and maid of honour Sera suggests Layla look into their family histories a bit more before saying “I do”.
After a little digging, Layla is shocked to discover that Andy’s ancestors may have enslaved her ancestors. A trip to Jamaica is on the cards, more research, and plenty of soul searching.
I really loved this book.
The characters and dialogue all felt so real to me; I loved all the flashbacks to years of friendship between Sera and Layla in particular. The author does an excellent job of making them three dimensional people; I felt like I grew to know them over the course of the book and really wanted to keep reading to find out more about them.
The main storyline itself was so interesting; thought provoking and fresh, I don’t think I’ve read anything else like it. It would be a perfect book club choice too as there’s so much to discuss in here.
I highly recommend #Dominoes, it’s already on my “best books of the year” list and we’re only in July! 😅
With many thanks to @netgalley and @vintagebooks for the early copy, all opinions are my own. Dominoes is available to buy now
June 22, 2024
My interpretation of this book is that its about the intergenerational trauma of Colonialism, the Windrush generation (and the Windrush scandal), racism and self-identity in 21st Century/post-covid UK. I'm sure each reader will have their own interpretation of this story (influenced by their own lived experience and self-education) so all I can really say is that I valued reading it. ❤
August 13, 2025
When Layla meets her fiancé Andy, they think it’s a cute coincidence that they have the same last name. Now in weeks before the wedding she learns that his family once enslaved her. What follows is a story about identity and complicity. I thought this was fascinating and unlike anything I’ve read.
April 8, 2024
*3.75 rounded up
"I always been my own."
Dominoes isn't a perfect book, but it hits its mark in being thought provoking and poignant. It bubbled up questions about my own family's origins and led to some new and sad discoveries. That alone was worth purchasing a physical copy for my shelves.
While books exploring self-discovery regarding how one sees oneself and how the world sees one in return isn't new, I found McIntosh's take fresh. The idea of learning your fiancé's ancestors may have owned your ancestors straddles the line between possible and ludicrous in a way that pulls the reader in and is ripe for much exploration. The decision to base the plot on a real database was also clever and added historical significance. Layla was a personable, vulnerable, and sympathetic character. I was personally invested in her journey to learn more about where she comes from and how that impacts who she is. For a pretty short book, McIntosh delicately covered many topics, including the legacy of the British slave trade, how love and friendships can become political, and intergenerational trauma.
For elements that didn't work as well for me, I found Sera to be quite one-dimensional in a way that almost invalidated her complex feelings for much, if not most, of the book. She came across as so unlikeable that I could see how it would be easy for some readers to write off her trepidations as ridiculous or stemming from jealousy. The reader also gets no insight nor explanation for why Sera chose her particular course of action. I suspect it was mostly necessary for the plot since Layla needed to go on this journey on her own, but the coldness Sera displayed was frustrating and inexplicable. The flashbacks throughout the book built the foundation for an understanding that there had long been a disconnection between Sera and Layla on race and why Sera may have been concerned about Andy's family. However, McIntosh could've seized on this more for further conversation. This was shallowly addressed with the club incident; but, I would've liked to see Layla grapple more with the reality that even though both she and Sera are Black, she moves through life differently as a light skin, biracial woman than a dark skin, unambiguously Black woman.
Similarly, I found the resolution with Andy to be a bit rushed. Layla was on this journey for most of the book, but Andy's come to Jesus moment happened within a few days? Not to say that this was impossible, but I would've found it more believable if the reader had learned more about Andy as an individual prior to that (apart from his love for Layla). Both of these weaknesses are likely a result of this book being an adaptation of McIntosh's solo play. More fleshing out of Sera and Andy, the two characters who really kick off Layla's journey, was needed for a more well-rounded story. But, on that same note, I appreciate that McIntosh didn't attempt to tie up every loose thread with Layla's relationships moving forward. That was a realistic ending for such a heavy, messy, and complicated conflict.
Overall, Dominoes stumbled in some regards but is certainly a book worth picking up. It inspires a lot of conversation and would be a good book club pick as a result. I'm still thinking about it.
"I always been my own."
Dominoes isn't a perfect book, but it hits its mark in being thought provoking and poignant. It bubbled up questions about my own family's origins and led to some new and sad discoveries. That alone was worth purchasing a physical copy for my shelves.
While books exploring self-discovery regarding how one sees oneself and how the world sees one in return isn't new, I found McIntosh's take fresh. The idea of learning your fiancé's ancestors may have owned your ancestors straddles the line between possible and ludicrous in a way that pulls the reader in and is ripe for much exploration. The decision to base the plot on a real database was also clever and added historical significance. Layla was a personable, vulnerable, and sympathetic character. I was personally invested in her journey to learn more about where she comes from and how that impacts who she is. For a pretty short book, McIntosh delicately covered many topics, including the legacy of the British slave trade, how love and friendships can become political, and intergenerational trauma.
For elements that didn't work as well for me, I found Sera to be quite one-dimensional in a way that almost invalidated her complex feelings for much, if not most, of the book. She came across as so unlikeable that I could see how it would be easy for some readers to write off her trepidations as ridiculous or stemming from jealousy. The reader also gets no insight nor explanation for why Sera chose her particular course of action. I suspect it was mostly necessary for the plot since Layla needed to go on this journey on her own, but the coldness Sera displayed was frustrating and inexplicable. The flashbacks throughout the book built the foundation for an understanding that there had long been a disconnection between Sera and Layla on race and why Sera may have been concerned about Andy's family. However, McIntosh could've seized on this more for further conversation. This was shallowly addressed with the club incident; but, I would've liked to see Layla grapple more with the reality that even though both she and Sera are Black, she moves through life differently as a light skin, biracial woman than a dark skin, unambiguously Black woman.
Similarly, I found the resolution with Andy to be a bit rushed. Layla was on this journey for most of the book, but Andy's come to Jesus moment happened within a few days? Not to say that this was impossible, but I would've found it more believable if the reader had learned more about Andy as an individual prior to that (apart from his love for Layla). Both of these weaknesses are likely a result of this book being an adaptation of McIntosh's solo play. More fleshing out of Sera and Andy, the two characters who really kick off Layla's journey, was needed for a more well-rounded story. But, on that same note, I appreciate that McIntosh didn't attempt to tie up every loose thread with Layla's relationships moving forward. That was a realistic ending for such a heavy, messy, and complicated conflict.
Overall, Dominoes stumbled in some regards but is certainly a book worth picking up. It inspires a lot of conversation and would be a good book club pick as a result. I'm still thinking about it.
April 19, 2024
"Action is more important than anger."
A complex story about love that highlights the legacy of slavery on everyday British life as well as the awkwardness of your friend not liking your partner.
The writing is exceptional in its ability to explore such complex and dark themes with a sense of naivety as Layla progresses in her journey and in her comfort addressing racism, including her own. Yet, the book remains remarkably light and the pacing is naturally quick. The dialogue is crisp and hilarious in places, Sera calling Andy D&I Dude is one of my favourite things in anything ever.
A complex story about love that highlights the legacy of slavery on everyday British life as well as the awkwardness of your friend not liking your partner.
The writing is exceptional in its ability to explore such complex and dark themes with a sense of naivety as Layla progresses in her journey and in her comfort addressing racism, including her own. Yet, the book remains remarkably light and the pacing is naturally quick. The dialogue is crisp and hilarious in places, Sera calling Andy D&I Dude is one of my favourite things in anything ever.
March 2, 2024
I first want to acknowledge how hard it is to write a novel, and how grateful I am to have had early access to this one. This is my first ARC (Thank you Lauren!!! & Bookhuddle) and I honestly thought I may not be able to get as much out of it as a white woman. The prose was eye catching and interesting but I didn’t know if it was the book for me, boy was I wrong.
In this book, Layla McKinnon has everything she would ever need. She has the best friend a girl could ask for, a sister really, an amazing relationship with her mother and granddad, and an amazing fiancé, who makes her feel like she is walking on air. All of this is upended when her best friend sends a documentary and drops the bomb that her fiancé’s family might have owned her own, and the last name that they share before even giving married might be one of shame.
The book started slow, and I was struggling getting through it, not being able to connect with Layla or Sera or Andy. I had some difficulty picturing each of the characters and connecting with them individually and as pairs. But as I got to about the halfway mark, I really attached myself to the characters and Layla‘s journey into finding more about her genealogy. As much as I grew to like Layla, my absolute favorite character was grandad Roy. I sobbed for him both for what he had to go through and the joy that he felt when deciding he was moving back to Jamaica.
Although I think there could be some more hashing out in the immediate dislike, Sera had for Andy, I do think this is a book that people could read, and take away a lot of different information from, including that we all need to be observed more observant, and take action when it comes to injustices, racists, and our own internalized racism that is promoted by today’s society.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In this book, Layla McKinnon has everything she would ever need. She has the best friend a girl could ask for, a sister really, an amazing relationship with her mother and granddad, and an amazing fiancé, who makes her feel like she is walking on air. All of this is upended when her best friend sends a documentary and drops the bomb that her fiancé’s family might have owned her own, and the last name that they share before even giving married might be one of shame.
The book started slow, and I was struggling getting through it, not being able to connect with Layla or Sera or Andy. I had some difficulty picturing each of the characters and connecting with them individually and as pairs. But as I got to about the halfway mark, I really attached myself to the characters and Layla‘s journey into finding more about her genealogy. As much as I grew to like Layla, my absolute favorite character was grandad Roy. I sobbed for him both for what he had to go through and the joy that he felt when deciding he was moving back to Jamaica.
Although I think there could be some more hashing out in the immediate dislike, Sera had for Andy, I do think this is a book that people could read, and take away a lot of different information from, including that we all need to be observed more observant, and take action when it comes to injustices, racists, and our own internalized racism that is promoted by today’s society.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 18, 2023
phoebe mcintosh's "dominoes" is a story of intergenerational trauma, the problem of white allyship, and self discovery. layla meets well-to-do andy, a white man from a rich family and they quickly fall for each other. however, they have the same last name. leading up to their meticulously planned, lavish wedding, her best friend sera starts having doubts about andy and his allyship. a documentary comes out describing how many old british families owned jamaican slaves, and sera sends it to layla, which causes her to wonder if her fiancé's family owned her ancestors as slaves.
while sera is layla's foil, confident in her black femme identity, layla feels lost. without knowing much about her ancestry, she starts researching her past, trying to find out who she is. this novel is not a love story, though a love story is within it; this novel is about friendship, family, and identity. carefully written and heavily researched, "dominoes" is a wonderful read that questions whether anger regarding the past is worth ruining present relationships, as well as examining white allyship and casual racism. it was wonderful, truly, and if you have ever wondered where your family comes from, i'd recommend giving it a read. my only complaint is that the end feels a bit rushed in terms of pacing. other than that, it's a stellar read.
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
while sera is layla's foil, confident in her black femme identity, layla feels lost. without knowing much about her ancestry, she starts researching her past, trying to find out who she is. this novel is not a love story, though a love story is within it; this novel is about friendship, family, and identity. carefully written and heavily researched, "dominoes" is a wonderful read that questions whether anger regarding the past is worth ruining present relationships, as well as examining white allyship and casual racism. it was wonderful, truly, and if you have ever wondered where your family comes from, i'd recommend giving it a read. my only complaint is that the end feels a bit rushed in terms of pacing. other than that, it's a stellar read.
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
May 28, 2024
(rounded up from 4.75)
A nuanced and necessary deep dive into intersectionality and race relations in the modern world. The premise in the blurb is already deeply interesting and honestly, I'm surprised it's not come up more frequently in my readings: mixed-race people potentially marrying into the family that historically owned their ancestors as slaves and profited from their labour.
The author could have chosen the easy way out and just chosen to focus on the idea of a black woman marrying a white man when they share a last name already (cute, but is it?) but then they choose to toss in the intersectionality via two best friends, one of whom is biracial and white-passing and the other is monoracial and black. We slowly get glimpses of their pasts and how each of the girls has dealt with racism, overt and covert, and why her childhood bestie marrying a white man and diminishing herself to fit into this family of microaggressors is the last straw for the best friend.
I see a lot of reviewers with the "the best friend is annoying" feedback, but honestly, that's missing the point and I can't understand how one can not arrive at the same conclusion about that friendship that the main character does at the end. Sometimes you have to push hard to get through to someone and confrontation is often good, actually.
A nuanced and necessary deep dive into intersectionality and race relations in the modern world. The premise in the blurb is already deeply interesting and honestly, I'm surprised it's not come up more frequently in my readings: mixed-race people potentially marrying into the family that historically owned their ancestors as slaves and profited from their labour.
The author could have chosen the easy way out and just chosen to focus on the idea of a black woman marrying a white man when they share a last name already (cute, but is it?) but then they choose to toss in the intersectionality via two best friends, one of whom is biracial and white-passing and the other is monoracial and black. We slowly get glimpses of their pasts and how each of the girls has dealt with racism, overt and covert, and why her childhood bestie marrying a white man and diminishing herself to fit into this family of microaggressors is the last straw for the best friend.
I see a lot of reviewers with the "the best friend is annoying" feedback, but honestly, that's missing the point and I can't understand how one can not arrive at the same conclusion about that friendship that the main character does at the end. Sometimes you have to push hard to get through to someone and confrontation is often good, actually.
July 17, 2024
2.5 stars
Layla is a mixed-race British woman, who discovers just before her wedding that her fiancé Andy's family might have enslaved her ancestors. Layla, with a Black Jamaican mother and an absent white father, meets Andy, a white Scottish man, at a party, and their chemistry leads to a swift engagement. Layla's best friend, Sera, skeptical of Andy, urges Layla to explore her heritage. Layla's research reveals that Andy's wealth likely stems from his ancestors' enslavement of hers in Jamaica. As Layla uncovers these painful truths, including a visit to Jamaica to meet her family, she grapples with whether to marry Andy or confront this shameful history. The novel emphasizes that facing the past is essential for moving forward.
Let's start with what I liked about this book...it gets you to think and would be great for discussions at a book club. I thought the premise of the book was very interesting and it drew me in right away. What I didn't like was how all the relationships were portrayed. Layla and Sera seemed to have this perfect sister like relationship until it seemingly changed overnight. I felt like more backstory was needed so we could see the unraveling of it more. Either that or Layla had stuck her head so far in the sand that she didn't realize Sera had been pulling away. Overall I feel like this was a thought provoking book that just needed to be a bit more fine tuned.
Layla is a mixed-race British woman, who discovers just before her wedding that her fiancé Andy's family might have enslaved her ancestors. Layla, with a Black Jamaican mother and an absent white father, meets Andy, a white Scottish man, at a party, and their chemistry leads to a swift engagement. Layla's best friend, Sera, skeptical of Andy, urges Layla to explore her heritage. Layla's research reveals that Andy's wealth likely stems from his ancestors' enslavement of hers in Jamaica. As Layla uncovers these painful truths, including a visit to Jamaica to meet her family, she grapples with whether to marry Andy or confront this shameful history. The novel emphasizes that facing the past is essential for moving forward.
Let's start with what I liked about this book...it gets you to think and would be great for discussions at a book club. I thought the premise of the book was very interesting and it drew me in right away. What I didn't like was how all the relationships were portrayed. Layla and Sera seemed to have this perfect sister like relationship until it seemingly changed overnight. I felt like more backstory was needed so we could see the unraveling of it more. Either that or Layla had stuck her head so far in the sand that she didn't realize Sera had been pulling away. Overall I feel like this was a thought provoking book that just needed to be a bit more fine tuned.
January 31, 2023
Premise: A mixed-race London woman prepares to marry her white fiancé, but her Black best friend has some concerns. The concerns are heightened by said friend's own experiences of racial discrimination, the intensity of the BLM movement in the wake of George Floyd, and the shit storm that was/is the pandemic and Twitter and the thorny issues of allyship and reparations and and and...
Add to this that Layla and Andy share a last name, which could be a cute coincidence, but could be a sign that their families have had a problematically entwined past.
A lot of possible complications and amplifiers right? It's an incredibly complex topic, and this book is an incredibly nuanced treatment of it, in the vein of Zadie Smith, Andrea Levy, Bernardine Evaristo, and Jean Rhys. I don't want to say much more for fear of spoiling even one ounce of this story, but I will say: if you've ever felt like you were in a situation where there was no completely right choice, and struggled to balance your own desires with the moral certainty of others, and the inevitability of disappointing someone, this book is for you.
Thank you to #NetGalley and Random House for the ARC.
Add to this that Layla and Andy share a last name, which could be a cute coincidence, but could be a sign that their families have had a problematically entwined past.
A lot of possible complications and amplifiers right? It's an incredibly complex topic, and this book is an incredibly nuanced treatment of it, in the vein of Zadie Smith, Andrea Levy, Bernardine Evaristo, and Jean Rhys. I don't want to say much more for fear of spoiling even one ounce of this story, but I will say: if you've ever felt like you were in a situation where there was no completely right choice, and struggled to balance your own desires with the moral certainty of others, and the inevitability of disappointing someone, this book is for you.
Thank you to #NetGalley and Random House for the ARC.
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