Dominoes: A Novel by McIntosh Phoebe

In the poignant debut novel "Dominoes," Layla, a mixed-race British woman, faces a startling revelation just before her wedding: her fiancé's family may have enslaved her ancestors. With a blend of sweetness and sobriety, Layla navigates the complexities of her relationship with Andy, a white man of Scottish descent, as she grapples with her newfound understanding of her heritage.

The story unfolds against the backdrop of London, with Layla and Andy's wedding fast approaching. Their whirlwind romance, marked by instant chemistry and shared last names, seems like a fairy tale until Layla's best friend, Sera, urges her to delve deeper into her roots. As Layla embarks on a journey to uncover her family's history, she confronts uncomfortable truths about the role of slavery in Andy's lineage and the implications for their relationship.

The novel delves into themes of identity, heritage, and the legacy of colonialism, exploring Layla's internal struggle as she wrestles with the choice between love and confronting the painful realities of the past. Her journey takes her to Jamaica, where she confronts the remnants of her family's history and grapples with the impact on her sense of self.

"Dominoes" offers a nuanced portrayal of interracial relationships and the complexities of navigating cultural and historical legacies. As Layla confronts the truths she uncovers, the novel raises thought-provoking questions about accountability, reconciliation, and the power of confronting uncomfortable truths.

With its tender exploration of love, heritage, and self-discovery, "Dominoes" is a compelling and provocative debut that challenges readers to confront the complexities of the past while navigating the complexities of the present.