I really wish we could give 1/2 star ratings because this is a very solid 4.5 star book. I almost gave up in the beginning; the writing style didn't grab me and it has a more literary tone than I tend to read but I stuck with it and I'm so glad I dd! The characters are so well developed and their personalities shine so brightly. I was surprised that the kids share the projected age at which they'll die so soon; I was expecting that to come later in the book. I already have my favourite sibling and have a suspicion that the rest will have to work hard (some more than others) to redeem themselves. The concept of this book is intriguing and will definitely be adding this novel to my TBR pile. This is exactly the kind of hidden gem I love finding.