Mary Marcus

Lavina by Mary Marcus
Story of a black woman who served a household throughout her life. She has a son Billy Ray and he tries to go his own way but still lives at home.
Story also follows the family and the upheavals they go through from when the girls were young and as they aged.
Hated to hear about abuse and sexual content but it goes with the story line.
Riots are prevalent to the story and what happens during them.
Received this review copy from The Story Plant and this is my honest opinion.… (meer)

Mary Jacob barely remembers her life before she was 13, growing up in Murpheysfield, Louisiana. She is shocked when her older sister calls to say her dad is dying and wants to see her, as she hasn’t spoken to either of them in years. Despite her misgivings she decides to return home, where she is soon forced to face memories she has tried so hard to forget.

Billy Ray, singer and harmonica player, left his hometown of Murpheysfield, Louisiana in 1963 when he was 15 years old and his mother, Lavina, was killed. Thirty years later he reluctantly returns for a gig and finds out Mary Jacob is in town. He knows she is the only one who knows what really happened the day his mother died, and he is determined to finally get the truth out of her.

In alternate voices Mary Jacob, Lavina and Billy Ray talk about life during Jim Crow. As their connections to each other are revealed, the past begins to blend into the present as the events that changed their lives forever are finally revealed.

“Lavina” reveals the endurance of an oppressed race as well as the complex world that existed between black and white. It will stay with you long after the last page is turned.

Highly recommended for Adults.

Book review link: https://shouldireaditornot.wordpress.com/2016/06/19/lavina-mary-marcus/… (meer)

Sad and honest at once.

A poingnant look back on the life she left after 20 years of marriage and the kids gone to college. She reflects back on how whe ended up inviting a younger woman into her (and her husband's) life, basically presenting him with "a new me". This honest, introspective look at her life is refreshing, and I enjoyed this perspective.

This is a good read, at a slow and even pace, not filled with action, anxiety, rage or grief. Just an honest look back at how she got there, and how each person played a role.… (meer)

Sad and honest at once.

A poingnant look back on the life she left after 20 years of marriage and the kids gone to college. She reflects back on how whe ended up inviting a younger woman into her (and her husband's) life, basically presenting him with "a new me". This honest, introspective look at her life is refreshing, and I enjoyed this perspective.

This is a good read, at a slow and even pace, not filled with action, anxiety, rage or grief. Just an honest look back at how she got there, and how each person played a role.… (meer)