The Lovers, the Liars, and Me

Davis (All the Noise at Once) traces a Jamaican American teen’s attempts to learn more about her estranged mother in this emotionally charged novel. Valedictorian Jaliya Powell, 17, has struggled with feelings of abandonment since her mother deserted her at age four. The teen copes by pulling a tarot card daily from the deck her mom left behind. Upon receiving a mysterious, damaged letter that she believes is from her mother, Jaliya travels to Jamaica to stay with her aunt, uncle, and cousin, Shevaughn, certain that her mom has been living on the island. Though Shevaughn is initially cold—he resents Jaliya for her lack of communication since her last visit seven years prior—he soon welcomes her into his circle, comprising locals Andre, Deon, and India, who assist Jaliya in uncovering her mother’s whereabouts. As the cousins reconnect, Shevaughn confides in Jaliya about his love for Deon and his fear around how his conservative community will react to him coming out as gay. Simultaneously, Jaliya develops feelings for both India and Andre. Rhythmic language renders Jaliya’s candid first-person narration as she perceptively confronts questions of sexuality and cultural identity. The evenly paced narrative provides ample room for readers to empathize and connect with the easy-to-root-for characters, making for a satisfying and introspective offering. Ages 14–up. Agent: Jenissa Graham, BookEnds Literary. (June)