Summary

In Chapter 1, Bri's house at 307 Old Post Road near Rhinebeck, New York is covered in white mums. The flowers are symbols of Bri's grief over the death of Thandie, one of Bri's adoptive mothers. Her other mother Angie is also racked with grief. Circe, Bri's biological aunt, is in the other room. Bri notes the similar features she shares with Circe, including skin tone and oversized glasses. Circe is surprised and upset to find Bri here. Dr. Khadijah Grant tells Circe she has been trying to piece together what is going on. Angie asks for introductions. Circe introduces herself and Persephone, a woman she describes only as “a distant relative.” Circe has two padlocked cages that Bri assumes contains Absyrtus Heart plants. Bri knows she can retrieve Thandie from the underworld if she reunites all six of Absyrtus Heart plants. Bri has a...