The novel follows the Bradshaw family across generations in the Virgin Islands, blending history, magic, and personal drama. The characters, particularly the sisters Eeona and Anette, are compelling and complex, each embodying different aspects of freedom and restraint.
Land of Love and Drowning is a rich, multigenerational saga set in the Virgin Islands, spanning from 1916 to the 1970s. The story centers around the Bradshaw family, particularly the sisters Eeona and Anette, and their half-brother Jacob. Eeona is a beautiful but cold woman, burdened by her family's secrets and her own self-imposed isolation. Anette, on the other hand, is free-spirited and unapologetic, embracing life's possibilities with open arms. The novel explores themes of love, fate, and the complexities of cultural identity in a liminal space between Danish and American rule. The magical elements are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth to the characters and their struggles. While the plot can feel disjointed at times, the strength of the characters and the vivid descriptions make this a captivating read.
Quick quotes
She was seeing herself running alongside the beach that flanked them now on the left. Seeing herself like a beautiful animal with hair flying behind her. She was galloping. She was something to be feared. She loved herself most like that. She also hated herself most like that. But no matter, because she missed herself most like that.
Eeona never forget that she a lady from a genteel family. Me? I forget all the time. I laugh with my mouth open wide-wide.
The story is told through the two Bradshaw daughters, Eeona and Anette, and their half-brother Jacob.