Black Cake: A Novel

Charmaine Wilkerson's debut novel, "Black Cake," is a captivating family saga that has been adapted into a Hulu streaming series and has earned its place as a New York Times bestseller and a Read with Jenna Book Club pick. This immersive story delves into the hidden past of a mother, Eleanor Bennett, and how it connects to her traditional Caribbean black cake, a treasured family recipe.

The narrative weaves together the lives of two estranged siblings, Byron and Benny, as they unravel the mysteries left behind by their mother's death. Eleanor's puzzling inheritance, which includes a black cake and a voice recording, challenges the siblings' understanding of their lineage and their own identities.

Through Eleanor's captivating tale, readers are transported across decades and around the globe, accompanied by a cast of complex and wonderfully drawn characters. The heartbreaking story Eleanor shares reveals a headstrong young swimmer who escapes her island home under suspicion of murder, leading to a profound exploration of the consequences of inheritance, betrayals, secrets, and even names.

As Byron and Benny delve into their mother's past, they are faced with the choice of whether to reclaim their once-close relationship or to feel more lost than ever. Wilkerson's writing is deeply evocative, painting a vivid picture of the characters' journeys and the lasting impact of their mother's revelations.

"Black Cake" has been praised as one of the best books of the year by Oprah Daily, NPR, BuzzFeed, Glamour, PopSugar, Book Riot, and She Reads. The novel is a character-driven, multigenerational story that is meant to be savored, as it explores the complex and profound ways in which our pasts can shape our present and future.

Wilkerson's debut novel is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ways in which it can bridge the gaps between generations, heal fractured relationships, and uncover the hidden truths that have the potential to transform lives. "Black Cake" is a must-read for fans of family sagas, compelling characters, and the exploration of the human experience.

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