A review by susannam
The Mercy Seat by Elizabeth Hartley Winthrop

4.0

With short chapters (generally 2-4 pages), each focused on one of several characters, this book could have seemed fragmented, but the gentleness and quietness with which Elizabeth Winthrop builds this multi-dimensional view of the scheduled execution of a young man is quite beautiful and haunting. The story is based on actual events and the circumstances are heart-sickening, but the nuances of the characters allow you in, and even allow you some comfort, even as you are mourning the damage, both direct and indirect, to everyone portrayed. Sometimes I begin a book like this with some dread, afraid that it will be just too depressing, but I found so much light here.