In the same day, two devastating letters arrive driving Ella Tate to finally return to her childhood home of Mercy, Alabama and face the secrets and shame of her painful past. Set predominantly in the sanctuary of a small southern town in the 1960's, Mercy, Alabama spans decades and states to probe a buried but unsettled past plagued with mistrust and tainted by an unresolved murder. It explores the choices that define us, the nature of forgiveness, and the frailty of human connections in the face of disaster.
It took me awhile to get thru this book. After reading the first few chapters, I figured I already knew what this book was about and I put it away for awhile. When I picked it back up I was determined to finish it. I am so glad I did. The last 3/4's of the book proved me wrong. It was a moving, sad, heart wrenching story of a family that was so flawed due to the father's abusive upbringing. You just must read it. I am so glad I picked this back up and finished reading it. I would have missed a great story if I had not finished it. Sometimes you are wrong to judge a book too early. I certainly was.
I choose this book because it features small town Alabama and I wanted to know more about life there. I found it disappointing although there was a nice ending.
I read this book in two days; I appreciated all the characters - even the not so likable ones. For this author's first book, I'd say she did a fine job. I am now patiently awaiting a sequel to continue the story of Mercy, Alabama.
Great read on forgiveness and finding your strength. Through trials and heartache mercy prevailed. If you are looking for encouragement during a storm this is a great read.