This is an intense book about the likes and horrors that Native American children have gone through. It was a challenging read, but very important.

This book is well-written. It includes elements of historical fiction and a bit of real life horror. The role of the dolls in these women's lives was the most thought-provoking aspect of the novel. It added a bit of a fantasy element to the story. I wondered what the author's intention was. The dolls seem to be symbolic in addition to invisible friends for the girls. They were also silent, supposedly inanimate witnesses to what the young women experienced. The parts of the story told from the dolls' POV were especially intriguing. I enjoyed the section about how the Shirley Temple doll was made, and the doll was presented as self-aware.
The author wove mystery and symbolism around the dolls without being blatant. She left readers room to make their own interpretations. I really enjoyed and appreciated that. The book is also full of interesting philosophical statements.
This book is intense and hard to read in places. I took a break for a couple of days because the story became very dark and depressing. Of course, this is a heavy topic, and it is certainly not meant to be taken lightly. I found this to be an intellectual read.
The author's note outlined some of the creative liberties taken in the novel. Overall, a well-written, engaging book.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.