A review by passionyoungwrites
Patsy by Nicole Dennis-Benn

adventurous funny inspiring reflective tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

This is a story of sacrifice, of love, and ultimately forgiveness. Though Patsy could have been judged for her decision - in the long run she felt she did what was best for herself and her daughter. She knew the love that her daughter deserved, and she knew the source from which it would flow freely. 

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With the story being told from the point of view of Patsy and then switching to her daughter, Tru, we are able to see them evolve over the years. We see struggle from them both, and though Patsy’s dream didn’t pan out as she expected, she still had the ability to say that she made the choice that she could live with for the rest of her life. 

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I was disappointed at times with Patsy, though who am I to judge? Starting over in an entirely different country, no real security even when you get there, and you can’t go back home without being stuck there! Coupled with a religious parent and sexual abuse, Patsy really did what she needed to. Patsy is just a reminder that starting over is hard as hell. And sacrifices must be made, sometimes that includes leaving your children with family.

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Patsy did, however, see truths hidden behind familiar faces that made the “American Dream” an ideal one. In the end, she realized that what success looked liked to one isn’t the same for everyone else.