This book was full of richly written prose, and I especially loved the descriptions of Trinidad's landscapes that made me feel as though I was there.

The author manages to capture the reader's attention with an air of unease, building the mystery through the eyes of innocence until we have no chance to look away. The story explores how love can be the catalyst for both positive and negative actions that affect generations, and I throughly enjoyed this layered story.

Part coming-of-age story, part Gothic mystery, conjuring a world teeming with family secrets, divided loyalties, and unbridled ambition. Winner of the 2024 Whistler Independent Book Award.


What a beautiful book this is.


Everything about it. The author has set a stage that is just lush. The writing is beautiful and I am so glad I read this.


The characters are so well written and the descriptions really put you right there in the moment.




NetGalley/ Books Go Social March 11, 2025

This book was awesome a bit different than what I normally would read but the way the story carried and the storyline came together the characters were awesome as well I will recommend

On the cusp of coming of age, 12 year old Joseph strives to make his mother proud and better his life while scandal unfolds in their early 1900’s plantation home in Trinidad.

Initially, this read was chosen for sentimental reasons; the journey that ensued was deeply unexpected. I was transported by Barrow’s vibrant prose, turning page after page to immerse myself in the food, the forests, the moments of betrayal and redemption.

Palmyra is a vivid narrative filled with nature, history, and intrigue. At its core, it demonstrates how love can be both a poison and a catalyst that shapes the lives of many generations. A poignant debut novel.