About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their teenager is grappling with questions of origin, particularly when a birth family history is marked by trauma or crime. It is a sophisticated, haunting thriller that follows seventeen-year-old Frances, whose quiet life with her adoptive family is shattered when her birth mother is released from prison for a horrific crime against Frances's sisters. The story navigates the heavy terrain of identity, the fear of inherited darkness, and the complexity of forgiveness. While the premise is intense, it provides a safe space for mature teens to explore the idea that they are not defined by their parents' actions. It is best suited for older teens due to its dark subject matter and psychological depth.
