A review by jennifyr
Small Mercies by Dennis Lehane

adventurous challenging dark mysterious sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Mary Pat Fennessy is a powerhouse of a character and Lehane is able to make the many crimes and sides of the bussing race wars of 1974 seem understandable by telling them through the various characters' points of view. I loved all the accurate Boston references and the nuanced approach to tough topics and decisions. Mostly, this book is about a Mother's drive to get justice (even if street justice) for her daughter. 
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