This book is beautifully written, dense with details and multifaceted characters. The author does not shy away from difficult subjects like death, or living as a lesbian in Putin's Russia, but it is done so poetically it never feels difficult or cumbersome. The language is so beautiful and immersive it was hard to put this book down.

absolutely beautiful and mesmerizing prose. i couldn’t wait to finish the book. everything including the characters worked well within the story

3.5 rounded up

i mostly enjoyed this read, esp once it got going, but it kinda dragged on towards the end. still, i found it a creative concept. captured the often complex and layered mother/daughter dynamic v well. also loved the russian settings, the themes of family, tradition, identity and grief. mostly a good time and would def recommend!

thank you netgalley and catapult for the arc!!