About Book Marks
Recent Reviews
Julia Fine
Rave Historical Novel Society ... weird and wonderful ... Megan’s anxieties about motherhood and her dissertation combine to form a many-layered, deep exploration of what it means to be a mother, a daughter, and a woman. The story takes the reader to some strange places: moments of pure gothic terror mix with others that made me laugh out loud as I recognized truths about my own identity as a woman. Witty, dark, and unflinchingly honest, this is a gem of a novel that defies genre.
Sadeqa Johnson
Mixed The Washington Independent Review of Books The way she keeps a record of these girls’ stories and treats them like daughters during her brief sessions with them is beautiful and heart-wrenching. And even though Pheby’s attempts to assuage the suffering of other slaves seem like pathetically small gestures, they are no doubt realistic for a woman in her situation ... This novel — whose main characters are based on real people — is not for the squeamish. Vivid, detailed descriptions of torture and sexual abuse are numerous and could trigger some readers. And while author Sadeqa Johnson has created an interesting protagonist and a generally gripping story, the ending seems rushed. Although a planned escape forms the climax of the novel, the action falls strangely flat ... The most affecting parts of Yellow Wife focus on motherhood.
Rhys Bowen
Positive Historical Novel Society ...this is a delightful mystery that kept me guessing, with an interesting, sympathetic protagonist. I was confused by the many characters introduced at the beginning, so I recommend starting with the first book in the series. Bowen is a skilled writer, and mystery fans won’t be disappointed.
Eve Chase
Positive The Historical Novel Society A baby abandoned on a tree stump in a remote forest lies at the centre of this enthralling dual-timeline novel. There’s also a murder, an affair, an unhappy adolescent girl, and a fiercely protective nanny ... Chase’s mastery of language is impressive, and her concrete images pack a considerable punch with their freshness and emotional resonance. One image she uses for lovers’ entwined feet is so perfect that I’ll never forget it ... This novel is about girls and women, especially what it means to be a mother, sister, and daughter. I sometimes lost track of identities and relationships because of the large cast of characters, but my confusion never lasted long. A web of intricate threads links characters in both timelines, leading to a satisfying ending.
James McBride
Positive Historical Novel Society ... along with the substance abuse, crime, and poverty, McBride also captures powerful glimmers of hope in this tight-knit group. The large cast of characters confused me at times, but when I stopped trying to remember everyone and just let the story flow around me, rather like listening to an orchestra without trying to identify separate instruments, I enjoyed it. I also appreciated McBride’s snappy, rhythmic narrative voice that beautifully captures his characters’ idiosyncrasies.