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Set near the Penobscot Reservation in Maine, Charles is a man who grew up on the Reservation with his mother and Native stepfather. He had to move out when he reached the age of majority because he is not, by birth, indigenous. Charles’s daughter, Elizabeth, lives across the river with her mother. Her mother has not allowed Charles to claim their daughter, or even have much to do with her, since she believes it is better to bring Elizabeth up on the reservation. Charles is providing care for his mother, whose memory has declined due to dementia. Charles, who has been sober for years, is also functioning as a quasi-caretaker for his alcohol-addicted friend, Bobby. He picks up Bobby from the bar and drives him home to ensure Bobby’s safety.

The first half is a slow burn, taking time to introduce the main characters and provide their backstories. Toward the end, it all comes together but I think it needs a little more of a storyline to keep the reader’s interest, especially in the first half. It is written in a straightforward manner and addresses themes such as lack of belonging, family fractures, mental issues, alcoholism, and responsibility. It is a novel that speaks to the balancing of personal desires with the needs of others.