Many thanks to NetGalley, Henry Holt & Company, and Dreamscape Media for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of this beautifully-written book by Fiona Williams, perfectly narrated by Ben Allen, Lee Braithwaite, and Jessica Hayles - 4.5 stars rounded up!
Just like their house in the English countryside is made of broken bricks, so is the family of Tess and Richard. They have "rainbow twins" - one appearing White and the other Black. Tess longs for the city life in London, where she wasn't the only Black person, while Richard thrives in the outdoors. Told over 4 seasons, we hear from each family member.
This is such a wonderfully, atmospheric story with beautiful writing - you'll be able to see the birds and the crops, taste the food, feel the weather. But where the story shines is in its character building - each member tells the story from their viewpoint, letting the reader figure things out, and seeing if they will be able to come together and move forward. You'll feel Tess' isolation and her yearning to be among more familiar people and setting; you'll see Richard step back inside himself, trying to figure out how to process; and how each of the boys, different in temperament and appearance, navigate all that's around them. Took me a bit to resettle after the twist, but it was so well done. The ending was perfect - hopeful. High recommended!
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