RaveHistorical Novel SocietyThe Book of Night Women is a beautifully written, sweeping tale ... James portrays his dynamic and flawed characters in a complex, stratified society where many boundaries, some known and some unspoken, exist between slaves and their masters as well as among the slaves themselves. The authentic voice of the narrator, who remains a mystery until the end, moves the story along at a brisk pace. Strong language abounds, and the entire novel is written in a slave dialect which adds to the story, making it a realistic, engaging read. James portrays the violence as it really was, absolutely horrific, and does not hold back. One of the most satisfying parts of the novel is James’s exploration of the power of love to transform one’s thinking. This tale of freedom, hope, survival, and unlikely love is unique and will continue to make readers think.
