Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson

Eleanor has died twice before the getting the disease that will finally take her. Before she goes she makes a recording and leaves a black cake for her children hoping that sharing her story will heal the rift between the two siblings. Told in a rich narrative of an incredible life beginning in the islands, to the British Isles to California we see the pull of the water, the pull away from others making decisions for you and friendships that stand the test of time and distance. The secret of the black cake recipe is much like their family's secret heritage - it is rich, mysterious with a bit of tangy sadness to balance the sweetness. Told in present day by the each siblings along with alternating chapters of Eleanor's story this is amazing historical fiction of a rich cultural heritage as well as a deep dive into family relationships. This author writes like a seasoned pro and not like this is her debut novel. I am eagerly anticipating more from her in the future. For fans of THE VANISHING HALF, ISLAND QUEEN and family sagas.  4 1/2 stars