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happily_undignified's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
sad
tense
medium-paced
5.0
The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson is a gripping historical fiction that shows The challenges and triumphs of two black women in the 1940s. The story is full of history and relevant events but also has a ton of heart and soul that makes it feel personal. Both of the main characters are beautifully written with rich personalities and show an amazing amount of growth throughout the tale. Ruby was my favorite character because she was so persistent in chasing her dreams and I loved her motivation for becoming an ophthalmologist. Her artistic nature made her way of working at the world beautiful, even when it was heartbreaking. I was utterly appalled at her treatment in the middle of the story and it's even worse to realize that that was a common occurrence in the 1940s. Eleanor was an amazing character as well and it was great to see her friendships and personality mature throughout her life. The House of Eve was easy to get drawn into and reading it felt like catching up with an old friend. Sadeqa Johnson Is a talented storyteller who makes you really think about the characters of the world that they live in. The way that she wove personal history, US history, and fiction together to create a tale that is challenging and inspiring is nothing short of magic. I loved the way the two women's stories intersected towards the end and the last little surprise twist was Perfect. I'm excited to read Yellow Wife and more by this author.
Graphic: Racial slurs, Medical trauma, Child abuse, Pregnancy, and Racism
noble_editorial's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This is an incredible novel! It's an evocative commentary on how class and race intersect, but also a stirring, often heartrending, exploration of motherhood. The history captured by the author is fascinating, as is her exploration of colorism within the Black community. It often feels uncomfortable, as it should. However, this book goes well beyond a searing critique of American society and norms in the 1950s; all of the traditional storytelling elements are equally strong, creating an immersive and emotional experience for the reader. The time period is captured exquisitely, there's a cast of complex but relatable and (mostly) likable characters, the story is perfectly plotted and paced, and the stakes feel real. This was a joy to read!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Moderate: Physical abuse, Forced institutionalization, Grief, Infertility, Medical trauma, Racial slurs, Racism, Sexual harassment, Body shaming, Classism, Emotional abuse, Pregnancy, Miscarriage, Sexual assault, and Kidnapping
martachbc's review against another edition
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.75
Graphic: Racial slurs, Infertility, Racism, Miscarriage, and Pregnancy
Moderate: Grief, Medical content, Sexual harassment, Abandonment, and Classism
Minor: Abortion, Antisemitism, Sexual content, Blood, Sexual assault, and Adult/minor relationship
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