A review by senchastories
The Human Origins of Beatrice Porter and Other Essential Ghosts by Soraya Palmer

dark emotional funny hopeful sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

This one goes on the list of debut novels that do not read like debuts. The use of language in this book was masterful and you could easily convince me that Soraya Palmer was a seasoned writer. Will definitely be picking up any future books from her. 

There’s so much to this book. Beautiful language, as I mentioned, but also a fantastical blend of folklore, storytelling, contemporary and historical life, the lasting effects of colonialism on the Caribbean, poignant reflections on gender and sexuality, and a cast of vibrant, well fleshed-out characters that tie it all together. The narrative moves forwards and backwards simultaneously; as Beatrice’s two daughters grow up and grapple with their relationships to their parents, we also see more and more of the history that brought their parents to the United States and the traumas that shaped their adult lives. 

I was lucky enough to get a review copy of the audiobook for this, and I cannot recommend it enough. The narrator added so much character to the story, and she had me laughing and crying at the same time on a ten hour road trip. 

Thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!