The book is set in Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, and tells the story of Caroline Murphy, who discovers her love for another girl.

Writing for The Horn Book Magazine, Anastasia Collins praised the use of present tense as a technique that "thoroughly immerses readers in an emotional tempest."

Collins also highlighted Callender's description of Caribbean life and culture, both in "the cruel reality of prejudice" as well as "the fragility and resilience of inner strength.

"[2] Kirkus Reviews, which gave the book their "Get It" verdict, also commented on the author's usage of present tense as a way to make readers identify with Caroline's emotions, both positive and negative.

[3] Jennifer Barnes, for The Booklist, said "Callender's novel captures the exquisite agony and pain that accompany rejection and abandonment", as well as praising the detailed description of the region.