Not really a mystery/thriller but an exploration of characters, their relationships with one another, their choices and the consequences of their actions. Almost, but not quite, literary fiction?

Strong sense of place, with parts of the setting taking on a character-like quality (e.g., Self-Reliance house).

Many POVs across time. Having the timeline laid out at the top of every chapter was really helpful. 

Both heartbreaking and hopeful. The message I was left with was about living authentically/on your own terms and finding "home" (love, care, belonging) outside of abusive biological family and oppressive societal norms.