This was my first Joyce Carol Oates read and although I've only stated it 3 stars, I will read her work again.
This novel had a brutal beginning to it, one that had me gripped. As the tragedy of 'Whitey' s' death hits his family I was emotionally invested with that family's grief and loss. Leaving a wife and five children behind, the story revolves around the breakdown and coming together of a family unit. The reality of the storyline hit me with all the feels, I travelled through a kaleidoscope of emotions, especially towards the widow of the deceased. We become to know her as a broken woman, one who has lost a huge part of her life, she's learning to become a solo, I dependant identity again while her offspring faff around her and treat her like a weak person.

The family members clash, not just in their grief but in personal dynamic - this felt real and authentic, but I was just unable to like any of them apart from one who feels like he is the lost cause of the family. The book entangle subjects such as racism and police brutality, while also addressing how a family of a powerful man suffers after a loss in a way that they'd never expect. I enjoyed somewhat the personal development of the family as the book went on but I felt that it was just a tad too long in execution.

Joyce's writing is exquisite and heartfelt, she draws the reader in in such a spellbinding way. I would definitely read more of her work!