Dominoes by Phoebe McIntosh

 

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!