Bridgers is a story-teller in the southern tradition. Each character has a distinguishing heritage, such as Uncle Fate losing the use of his left arm and almost losing his life. The novel is rich in the art of the oral tradition as each character tells his or her story.

Through her aptly drawn characters, Bridgers depicts the language, lifestyles, and culture of Appalachain North Carolina.

Bridgers use concrete imagery and detail to contrast these two sisters.

Swanee Hope hardly ever moved except to make a marble cake or dust or sweep the porch. She liked to cook sweet things: puddings smooth with patience, and angel cakes folded slowly, in the rotating bowl easing its circle against her curving rubber spatula. Sara Will hadn't the patience for it or the desire. . . She'd take her blackberries plain or mixed with a little sugar and poured over a hot...