Maame

Author: Jessica George
Genre: Fiction
Publisher: St. Martin's Publishing Group, 2023
Pages: 320
Rating: Recommend

Synopsis: It's fair to say that Maddie's life in London is far from rewarding. With a mother who spends most of her time in Ghana (yet still somehow manages to be overbearing), Maddie is the primary caretaker for her father, who suffers from advanced stage Parkinson's. At work, her boss is a nightmare and Maddie is tired of always being the only Black person in ever meeting.

When her mum returns from her latest trip to Ghana, Maddie leaps at the chance to get out of the family home and finally start living. A self-acknowledged late bloomer, she's ready to experience some important "firsts:" She finds a flat share, says yes to after-work drinks, pushes for more recognition in her career, and throws herself into the bewildering world of internet dating. But it's not long before tragedy strikes, forcing Maddie to face the true future of her unconventional family, and the perils - and rewards - of putting her heart on the line.

Review: There were themes in this book that I found interesting, and felt were explored well such as race, family relationships, and friendship. The novel also ended well.

However, throughout much of the book, I found it hard to relate to Maddie on the subjects of dating, sex, and her own insecurities.

Did the author have a target audience? I'm not sure.

Jessica George is a gifted storyteller, and I would read more books she writes, but this won't be one of my favorite books this year or even one I remember long term.