The Shade of My Own Tree: A Novel

by Sheila Williams

The author of Dancing on the Edge of the Roof, now a Netflix film starring Alfre Woodard, returns with a riveting, emotionally rich, novel that explores the complex relationship between mothers and daughters in a fresh, vibrant way—a stunning page-turner for fans of Terry McMillan, Tayari Jones, and Kimberla Lawson Roby.

Elise Armstrong, Carmen Bradshaw, and DeeDee Davis meet in a yoga class. Though vastly different, these women discover they all have one thing in common: their mothers have recently passed away. Becoming fast friends, the trio make a pact to help each other sort through the belongings their mothers’ left behind. But when they find old letters and diaries, Elise, Carmen, and DeeDee are astonished to learn that each of their mothers hid secrets—secrets that will transform their own lives.

Meeting each month over margaritas, the trio share laughter, advice, and support. As they help each other overcome challenges and celebrate successes, Elise, Carmen, and DeeDee gain not only a better understanding of the women their mothers were, but of themselves. They also come to realize they have what their mothers needed most but did not have during difficult times—other women they could trust.

Filled with poignant life lessons, The Secret Women pays tribute to the power of friendship and family and the bonds that tie us together. Beautiful, full of spirit and heart, it is a thoughtful and ultimately uplifting story of unconditional love.

Genres: Fiction, Audiobook, Novels, Friendship

258 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 10, 2009

Reviews

[Tamyka · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book about a Black woman who was in a physically abusive marriage and her life after she was brave enough to leave. The author is a beautiful storyteller and the narrator seemed like a perfect match for the text. I found myself writing a few quotes in my journal because the author is a beautifully lyrical writer.I would recommend this book to people that like to read those “woman reclaims her life” type stories generally featuring a 40+ female protagonist TW: lots of domestic violence with very descriptive details

[Cris Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flowing like a river carrying autumn leaves

Opal, a middle aged formerly abused wife and legal paraprofessional, finally finds herself ready to make her own life. She buys a ramshackle old yellow mansion and creates a shelter for women seeking to escape abusive relationships. Along the way she picks up two dogs, two cats, a dominatrix tenant, an eccentric realtor, and a handyman who is helping remake the way she feels about men and life.

I will be seeking out other works by the author. I really enjoyed this read.

[Tammy Washington · Rating 4 out of 5]

Second chances
❤️‍🩹

[Trudy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Story about an abused woman who leaves her abuser and establishes a home for other abused women. The biggest lesson for me was realizing the absuer will always be a constant underlying threat to the victim's life, regardless of seperation, divorce or restraining orders. A quote from the book: "The condition (abuser) will always be there and you take your pill, but you cannot limit your dreams because of it." When victims of abuse attempt to live their lives, inspite of this "condition", they are "sitting under the shade of their own tree." Thought provoking story.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous!

I never knew Sheila Williams existed but boy howdy I know now....how I love this awesome novel that she has scribed....it should be required reading for anyone going through domestic violence....but even with the seriousness of this subject, Ms. Williams expertly manages to interject great humor and comical living situations....I laughed so hard in some places in this novel that I cried...but I must add that reading this has made me want more...yes, I have bought and downloaded all of Ms. Williams’ other books but “The Shade of My Own Tree” cries out and demands a sequel...I need to know what happens with Opal and Jack, Dana and her “job,” the mural in the house, and if Ted really finally gets what he so deserves....and that won’t be nice...lol...so please Ms. Williams, grant my wish....scribe that sequel!!!...

[Jenetta · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a woman is in a situation where there is no hope (it seems) and finds the courage to step out on faith to do something about it, that is powerful. The Shade of My Own Tree, is a tribute to women who have been pushed down, broken and discarded. It sings a song of hope, pain, courage and survival. I am glad that the Mrs. Williams did not make it easy for the the main character. She really experienced the trapping of turning back and falling into the fear but the hope that was burning in her soul kept her moving in the face of fear.

Awe inspiring. A great read!

[Gwendolyn Broadmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

An inspiring novel. In the midst of the terror of domestic abuse, the characters vibrate with all of the raw emotions of life: including infectious laughter, heartrending tears, and courage to survive, no matter what. I loved every page and was sorry when the story ended.
Gwendolyn Broadmore, author, Life Came to a Standstill

[Karrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book about an abused woman's journey to recovery.

[Dean · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book about aabused woman and her recovery. Very accurate.

[Nick Hendry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Opal Sullivan is a married to her husband Ted and they have a small daughter Imani. But sadly this isn't a happy marriage as Opal suffers from domestic abuse from her husband and finally tries to walk out of the marriage after 15 years of abuse. Opal starts her journey at a Woman's Shelter and ends up getting a home of her own that she opens up to other women who are seeking refuge from their abusive relationships or troubles and works along side the local women's shelter to bring healing and second chances to the women who come to her front door.

This book follows Opal and a whole cast of characters as they navigate their troubled past, abusive relationships, and seek second chances and fresh new beginnings in their lives. Sheila Williams always, always, has a way of touching your very spirit and moving you emotionally. I have read her books Dancing On The Edge Of The Roof and On The Right Side Of A Dream and loved those! This book, The Shade Of My Own Tree, once again reminded me why I love Sheila Williams's writing. I never have anything negative to say about her books. Sheila Williams usually writes about women, their struggles, and their ability to overcome those struggles. Her books have a real and sad truth to them which can be heartbreaking, sad, triggering at times, eye opening, and stirring. But she always leaves you with hope, empowerment, wisdom, and the ability to find your inner strength to move forward as all of her characters tend to do.

I really connected to Opal and a few of the other characters in this book. I was laughing, gasping in surprise, and angry at times through the story. This book can be triggering as it does deal with domestic abuse throughout the book and even talks about how these women were abused, but it also discusses a lot more on the resilience of the human spirit through dark times, how everyone can get that second chance to be happy, and how to move forward and reclaim your life when you aren't even sure how to. I did listen to this as an audiobook and have to also mention that Patricia R. Floyd does a fabulous job narrating this story as well. She has a very good pace in her reading and the emotion and depth she brings to the characters really brings the book to life.

[LATOYA LEWIS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Freedom beats bandage anyday! Opal use to walk on egg shells with high heels to avoid being abused from her husband Ted. She left him 4 times, and came back 4 times. Her daughter Imani saw it all, the police department knew her by name, she stopped going to church because she was ashamed. Like many women, they think their children don't know but oohh do they know. Whew, this book here is heavy. Opal became a shadow mother. When Imani turned 18 she left for college and never returned. I dunno why Opal stayed but she did. The insecurities.....on both sides is crippling, literally and figuratively. The possession and illusion of control is disgusting. One day she couldn't take no more beatings and tongue lashings and left. She ended up at a shelter. Which turn out to be the best decision she made. She was able to get help, made friends, bought a house and helped other women by letting them take shelter in her home. Of course Ted, came looking gor her and was mad as you know what because he lost his control, his power. He never saw his wife happy, and standing up yo him. Opal had a difficult but needed conversation with Imani about her abusive father and not falling for the same type of men. Although sad, it's a refreshing book. It shows that it doesn't rain all the time. Sheila Williams' visualizing descriptions keeps me hanging on for more, they are all truly something else. #Book8of2021 #bookworm #whatsnext

[Be Love · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sheila Williams is a great storyteller. The story of Opal taking back control of her life after living in fear and abuse of her marriage. She is the epitome of a person brave enough to leave the past, but wise enough to know sometimes the past, (in her case-a crazy ex husband) won't leave you alone.

[Jean]

Story of a black woman, who after more than 20 yrs, leaves a violent relationship. She struggles for the courage to leave, get a divorce, buy a house, & reclaim/rediscover herself. She discovers a famous mural on the DR wall of the house she bought and encounters new challenges & adventures with boarders she takes in to help finance her new home. Inspiring story!

[S L Host · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't remember the last time I read a book in one sitting. I had to read what came next. Opal proves circumstances do not make us. Destiny is of our own making, a result of our own choices. The way Opal told her story made me feel like I knew her. Great book. Well written.

[AngelaC · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of Opal, who leaves an abusive husband and creates the most beautiful life for herself, was - a bit surprisingly for such a sobering topic - a delight, full of grit and endearing characters, and Hope. I read it in one sitting.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't know, I don't think, any woman who has been beaten and abused by her husband/boyfriend. This was a bit eye-opening.
A woman taking her life back is inspirational. I appreciate her opening herself up to others who need help.

[Michele]

Had to give up on this book due to the offensive and frequent profanity.

[Caroline · Rating 3 out of 5]

An abused lady buys and opens a border house for other abused ladies. Its a parade of unforgettable characters that makes the story.

[De'Nae · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good story about starting over later in life.

[Cheryl Durham · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shade of My Own Tree is a breathtaking piece of work. It is centered on a very difficult subject....domestic violence. It's mainly told through the life of Opal Sullivan. The book acquaints the reader with the manner in which Opal meets her husband, the isolation and separation from her family, the domineering disposition of the spouse, the beating, lovemaking afterwards and the covering up of bruises. Then, after being beaten one too many times, burned with cigarettes and the possibility of her vision being seriously compromised, Opal musters up the courage to leave.

It is evident that she did substantial research on the topic. She was able to illustrate what I, as a Social Worker and Counselor know to be true, for many, it takes years to get the courage to leave. There were no stigmas or stereotypes portrayed. The author wonderfully showcased the manner in which the Safe House operates. The other ladies, be them workers or ladies in need of transitional services, reflected society. Young or old...childless or not...care providers intervene at your point of nee.

And, too, Sheila Williama, labored to make the reader know once making a decision to leave then the hard part comes: surviving. Surviving is done by having a supportive network. Opal was able to find her voice and she would help others to find theirs. Even after the divorce was final and a restraining order was still in place...Ted, the ex husband, still thought he had leverage. Little did he know that Opal was committed to finding what he had attempted to rid her of: her own identity.

Note: I love the fact that the author, in ever book, paints women as being resilient creatures. Kudos for another job well done.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Shade of My Own Tree by Sheila Williams tells the story of Opal. She went to college with hopes of an artistic career and travel like many young women. While there she fell in love with Ted. Unfortunately for her, Ted's true colors came to light after their marriage, and the "overly protective" boyfriend turned into a controlling, mean, abusive husband. Her tale is unfortunately not an un-common one. Many women (like myself) have either been abused personally or know someone who has, and many nurses (like myself) struggle to identify and treat abuse when the woman is not forthcoming with the honest details surrounding her injuries (often due to fear of reprisal).
For all these reasons, Williams tells an important story, but the way she tells it is even more important. Opal sees herself in the mirror one evening...and she realizes that she can't continue to live with the woman she has become. So she escapes, and not only does she escape, but through the help of her friends she learns to become assertive. She recovers the parts of herself that she buried over the years, she finds the courage to try new things, and she begins to help other women trapped in situations like she was. "Throw-away women" she calls them. But Opal shows us that she can be strong in her own right, she can make it on her own, and perhaps even learn to love again...in a healthy way this time.

[C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shade of My Own Tree is a brilliant and honest look at the faces of Domestic violence. The story included a network of people trying to get survivors out while they could still be saved. The author’s care of each scene, emotion, abuse, stalking, manipulation, and the ending was nothing short of masterful.

The characters feel real, and they draw you deeper into the story. You will cheer for some characters and cry for others. Their stories range from a beaten wife, a beaten college girlfriend, a mother and son, an eccentric lady, a caring nurse, a shelter worker, and the men who try to love them.

The Shade of My Own Tree is a book you will not soon forget. On these pages, hope wins out. The book could benefit young adults who think it will never happen to them because no one is immune.

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This audio book was performed by Patricia R. Floyd. She did a good job of presenting each character in different voices. Opal is the main character, who has been abused by her husband for many years. She finally gets the courage to leave her husband, and takes her daughter with her. She buys an old large yellow house to fix up, and rents rooms to help other women in need. Her daughter goes off to college, and comes home to a mother she doesn't know. Her mother had surpressed herself all through her marriage. Opal blossoms after she frees herself from her husband. The husband has always treated his daughter well. She went out with him when she came home from school, and she learns some of the bad things about him, as he questions her about her mother.

[alwaysneed2learn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am super sensitive and did not expect to enjoy this book. However, I was pleasantly surprised... and it was in large part due to the author's writing style. Although it was very realistic and accurately depicted the physical and emotional effects of domestic abuse, the story line did not pull the reader down. Williams chose to focus on where her character (Opal) was going rather than where she had been. In this case, transformation was not easy and even breaking "free" posed ongoing challenges but the story was positive in tone and not at all depressing. Overall, a very enlightening book about finding empowerment despite an extremely difficult situation.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved it. I loved each of the characters, especially Opal and Bette. This is my second Sheila Williams book. I like the character development and her writing style. This is a quick and easy read. The book was written for people like me, middle-aged who need to escape what they are going through. Finding the courage to put yourself first, is the hardest thing a woman (especially mothers) has to do. Most of us don't. This book reminds us to do that. Your family will benefit, especially the girls.

[Anino · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recently, I had the pleasure of reading this awesome book on a lazy Saturday afternoon, and I was thoroughly impressed.

Without being too descriptive, the best thing that I can say about this book is that it was pitch perfect; because not only was it captivating, but it was also chock full of dry wit, drama, and well developed characters that were touchable, to say the least.

Just like Terry McMillan, Toni Morrison, and other great African American writers, this author definitely has the goods..

Giving this one: 5 awesome stars.

[CJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book.

This is an easy to read story with a good message for.any woman that's been in a domestic violence situation. Being an avid reader all of my life I've come to know if a book is going to be good from the first few pages and even from the first few sentences . This should be in the library of all DV shelters or in crisis offices for women to have access to. There can be a better life for you out there. I'm a survivor and took me decades to be one but.here I am. Free and sitting under the shade of my own tree also. And ladies it truly feels dang good!!!

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first Sheila Williams novel. I was not disappointed. The story of an abused woman
and how she found time to help others though their time of need. This is done by bitter sweet humor
and vivid adventures. (you will laugh out loud).
Opal Sullivan pulls herself up out of torment into her own life of being an artist and a home owner.
I don't know how Ms. Williams was able to combine misfortune with laughter. It works!

[RaceTo230 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, despite the subject matter. In fact, I didn't know the subject matter beforehand! I really enjoyed the other two books I read by this author and just knew I would like this one, as her writing style (to me), makes one want to continue to read. It's very engaging!

The topic of this book is domestic violence and can be difficult to read, but it wasn't in this case. It was compelling, real, and you felt for the characters. A good read.

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

An excellent portrayal of a middle aged African American woman who escapes an abusive marriage. The story explores her process of escaping and overcoming low self esteem - In reaching out to others, Opal saves herself..and created a new beginning. The author is from Columbus, Ohio and is an Ohio Wesleyan grad.