Lying In

by Barbara G. Tucker

In October of 1918, the world, still in the midst of a massive war in Europe, is experiencing a new challenge-a pandemic of what came to be known as the Spanish flu. But Cotella Barlow, living in an isolated county in Appalachian Virginia, has only heard rumors about it. Cotella, known as "Telly," makes her way in the world taking care of the families of new mothers who are "lying in" after their labors and deliveries. She travels home to home, eeking out a living, loved by many but always conscious of the stares and winces caused by her disfiguring condition.

Until she enters the home of her next "momma," who, days before delivery, is dying in a strange new way, her husband missing, and her four other children frightened, uncared for, and hungry. Telly must meet the challenge with no knowledge of the outside world that is shutting down while people suffer, die, and quarantine. Winter is coming, and there is no one to help, or so it seems.

This is a story of devotion, courage, strength, and love with iconic characters readers will come to cherish.

Genres: Historical Fiction

326 pages, Paperback

Published October 23, 2024

About the author

Barbara G. Tucker is the author of six novels: A Family’s Journey Trilogy: Traveling Through, Cross Road, and Legacy, published by OakTara Press The Unexpected Christmas Visitors, Bringing Abundance Back, and Long Lost Family: A Mystery Novel. She has also published Leading in a Strange Land: Studies in Daniel and Leadership. She is the co-author of Exploring Public Speaking, a Creative Commons licensed textbook, and editor of an academic journal. Barbara lives in a community in Northwest Georgia outside of Chattanooga, Tennessee, with her husband and dog. She is a professor and administrator in a public college.

Reviews

[Glmomich · Rating 3 out of 5]

I won this book. I enjoyed reading it. I like how she incorporated a historical epidemic along with the ugly truth about what happened to the kids when the parents died. She also showed the face of greed when family dies. I really enjoyed the ending.