In this novel "full of music, magnetism, and familial obligation"
(Emma Straub, author of All Adults Here) a dying billionaire matriarch
leaks news of her death early so she can examine her legacy--a decision
that horrifies her children and inadvertently exposes secrets she has
spent a lifetime keeping.
Dava Shastri, one of the world's wealthiest women, has always lived with
her sterling reputation in mind. A brain cancer diagnosis at the age of
seventy, however, changes everything, and Dava decides to take her
death--like all matters of her life--into her own hands.
Summoning her four adult children to her private island, she discloses
shocking news: in addition to having a terminal illness, she has
arranged for the news of her death to break early, so she can read her
obituaries.
As someone who dedicated her life to the arts and the empowerment of
women, Dava expects to read articles lauding her philanthropic work.
Instead, her "death" reveals two devastating secrets, truths she thought
she had buried forever.
And now the whole world knows, including her children.
In the time she has left, Dava must come to terms with the decisions
that have led to this moment--and make peace with those closest to her
before it's too late. Compassionately written and chock-full of humor
and heart, this powerful novel examines public versus private legacy,
the complexities of love, and the never-ending joys--and
frustrations--of family.
Includes a Reading Group Guide.
A Good Morning America and Lilly Singh's Lilly Library Book Club pick
Most anticipated in fall 2021 by TIME, The Washington Post, Bustle,
Goodreads, and Debutiful - An Indie Next Pick - A Publishers
Marketplace Buzz Book for Fall/Winter 2021 - Longlisted for the 2021
Center for Fiction First Novel Prize
