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3.89 AVERAGE
3.89 AVERAGE
This was a really different read for me and I can't really pin point why when I absolutely love historical fiction and romance. This novel was incredible I didn't;t realize until I was over half way through the book that it's actually based on a real life incredible woman. This novel tackles some tough subjects like racism and sexism, but it's absolutely worth the read despite bringing up some uncomfy topics. If you like reading about string women who persevere and come out on top this is the read for you.
reflective
sad
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
emotional
hopeful
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
adventurous
emotional
informative
inspiring
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Content Warnings
Graphic: Rape, Slavery
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
informative
reflective
sad
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
inspiring
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This novel is based on the real life of Dorothy Kirwan Thomas (“Doll” or “Dolly”). the real “Doll” was born into slavery in Montserrat, 1756. She was an entrepreneur who created businesses on several Caribbean islands. She was able to purchase her own manumission. Then over 16 years she secured the freedom of her children, Mother and other relatives.
The novel covers over 60 years of Doll’s life beginning with her childhood from 5 to 65 when she has become a woman of wealth and influence. She was a daughter of the plantation owner and a slave in his household. His legitimate son is jealous and vicious toward Doll all of his life beginning with repeated rapes until she runs away to avoid being sold. Her business success lets her earn enough for her manumission from her father which sets her on a life long quest to free her children born into slavery as well as other relatives and friends. This is more a book about relationships than a recitation of historical facts—focusing on her husbands and lovers, her children, and a community of women who protect each other’s lives and business interests. She even succeeds in advocating overturning a discriminatory tax law with the British colonial authorities.
I loved the novel’s narration by Adjoa Andoh. Her voice brought to life Riley’s rich prose. Although there are graphic descriptions of violence, rape, incest, racism, and sexism, there is also a vivid description of the islands, the fierce love of a mother determined that her children’s lives be as good as possible and her own relationships with her lovers. Riley has done a wonderful job of portraying sex without it being an open door play-by-play. Instead her prose is rich, almost poetical. I highly recommend the book for those who enjoy family sagas, stories of strong women conquering impossible odds.
4.5 stars! This book was truly heart breaking. I will make you cry every chapter! Our main character Dolly is such a strong woman.
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
adventurous
reflective
relaxing
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
I feel guilty that I didn't love this book, because it focuses on a piece of history I knew little about and is from the perspective of a black woman, which is historically underrepresented. However, I didn't care for the style of writing and/or the book's organization. It spans over 60 years. It is somehow both too concise and too drawn out.