Dominoes by Phoebe McIntosh is a beautifully layered exploration of identity, relationships, and the profound importance of understanding where we come from. From the very beginning, McIntosh weaves a compelling story around the protagonist, Layla, whose journey of self-discovery unfolds amidst the complexities of family history, personal relationships, and the societal forces that shape who we are.

Layla, a teacher working alongside her best friend Sera, finds herself in a whirlwind romance with Andy, a white man whose last name turns out to be the same as hers—a coincidence that seems oddly serendipitous. The pace of their relationship accelerates, helped along by the restrictions of the pandemic, and before long, Layla and Andy are on the cusp of getting married. However, as the wedding approaches, Layla feels increasingly distant from Sera, and she can’t shake the sense that Andy’s whiteness might be contributing to the strain in their friendship. This conflict forces Layla to confront deeper questions about her identity, race, and the role her heritage plays in her life.

The novel takes a pivotal turn when Sera encourages Layla to delve into her family’s history, particularly the origins of her last name. This research leads to a shocking revelation: Andy’s ancestors were likely responsible for enslaving Layla’s ancestors in Jamaica, and their fortune today is tied to the compensation paid after emancipation. This discovery sends Layla into a crisis, unsure of how to reconcile her relationship with Andy, her evolving friendship with Sera, and the weight of the painful history she uncovers.

McIntosh deftly explores themes of racism, microaggressions, and the lingering impact of enslavement. While Layla’s experience as a mixed-race woman navigating a predominantly white world is depicted with some sensitivity and insight, I must admit that there were moments I found myself peeved by her lack of general awareness. This may be an unpopular opinion, but I understood Sera’s frustration in many respects. Her approach left a lot to be desired but I kinda get it… Layla seemed to capitalise on her privilege and for most of the book seemed to approach life with misplaced idealism, again, a product of her mixed-race privilege. Anyway, I digress…

Through Layla’s internal conflict, McIntosh highlights the pressure to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards and the daily occurrences of racism that people of color face—both overt and subtle. Layla’s journey is not just one of personal growth but also of confronting the deeply ingrained societal systems that shape our experiences.

The relationships in Dominoes are rich and multifaceted, and the author delves into how our connections with others—whether romantic, familial, or platonic—can influence our sense of self. Layla’s evolving relationship with Sera reflects the complexities of friendship as it is tested by new life changes, while her relationship with Andy forces her to reckon with her cultural heritage and how it intersects with his. These dynamics are messy, honest, and, ultimately, redemptive, as Layla works through the tension between personal desires and the reality of her past. I wish more time was spent with this part of the book where Layla explores her family’s heritage and seemingly for the first time, grasps the complexities of her heritage.

What struck me most about Dominoes is how McIntosh brings to light the significance of knowing where we come from. In a world where many feel disconnected from their roots, Layla’s journey is a powerful reminder of how our family history, culture, and traditions define us. The process of rediscovering her heritage becomes central to Layla’s personal growth and her ability to reconcile her present with her past. The novel suggests that when we lose touch with our origins, we lose a part of ourselves, making it all the more essential to honor and understand our histories.

While the story begins with a lighter tone, it gradually deepens into a poignant exploration of societal issues, including police brutality and institutional racism. McIntosh’s ability to balance serious themes with humor and warmth makes the novel both impactful and enjoyable. Layla’s character is relatable, thoughtful, and introspective, and I found myself rooting for her as she navigates the challenges of love, friendship, and identity. Her journey of self-discovery is as much about reconciling with the people in her life as it is about reconciling with herself.

Dominoes is a thoughtful and powerful read that will leave readers reflecting on their own identities, relationships, and the importance of understanding where they come from. McIntosh’s nuanced portrayal of race, history, and personal growth makes this novel unforgettable. It’s a book that reminds us that our past shapes how we move forward and how we connect with others in this ever-changing world. This is possibly the best book i’ve read so far this year.

Highly recommend!