This has been on my list now for quiet some time. I am always a sucker for a good southern themed story and this one did not disappoint. The story has some great themes including elements of magical realism, family drama, southern culture, and death/grieving. I really enjoyed our main characters and the easy flow of the writing. I really liked the idea of the magical pie. It was such a sweet omen. At the end of the day I think we all grieve differently but still at the end of the day long for our loved ones who have passed. I really liked the magical elements of the black birds and the family of powerful females being their keepers. I loved the tall tale but it was also very believable. I also liked how the author dug into the ripple affect that the death of a loved one can cause both on a family bit really even in a community. This one is definitely a winner.