What do you think?
Rate this book
The Mercy Step
A precocious Mercy makes her reluctant entrance into the world, torn from the warm embrace of her mother’s womb, to a chaotic household that seems to have no place for her. Her siblings do not understand her, her mother’s attention is given to the Church, and the entire family lives at the whims of her father’s quick temper.
Left to herself, Mercy finds solace in books, her imagination, and the quiet comfort of her faithful toy, Dolly. But escapism has its limits, and as the grip of family, faith and fear threatens to close in, Mercy learns she must act if she wants a different future; one where she is seen, heard, and her family set free.
The Mercy Step is a sharply-witted and tender portrait of a young girl’s quiet rebellion, and her refusal to be broken.
Left to herself, Mercy finds solace in books, her imagination, and the quiet comfort of her faithful toy, Dolly. But escapism has its limits, and as the grip of family, faith and fear threatens to close in, Mercy learns she must act if she wants a different future; one where she is seen, heard, and her family set free.
The Mercy Step is a sharply-witted and tender portrait of a young girl’s quiet rebellion, and her refusal to be broken.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 22, 2025
8 people are currently reading
336 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
November 26, 2025
Sharp, witty, fresh, powerful and un-put-down-able!
The Mery Step opens with the birth of Mercy, we are taken into her inner world from birth until she is a teenager. After birth, she it taken to a very chaotic home in London, she is her parents fifth child and yes, they end up having two more. This is during the Windrush era in London, and Mercy is trying to understand the world she is thrust into. She loves to read and has a lot of questions she has to get answers to! However, her parents are overworked, tired, and unprepared for being parents to so many children.
Mercy is very close to her mother, and witnesses firsthand the abuse from her father. She tries to understand “Big People Business” but feels left out.
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!! I cannot remember the last time I felt so enamored by a character! I laughed; I cried and cheered for Mercy!
Please read this brilliant book!
The Mery Step opens with the birth of Mercy, we are taken into her inner world from birth until she is a teenager. After birth, she it taken to a very chaotic home in London, she is her parents fifth child and yes, they end up having two more. This is during the Windrush era in London, and Mercy is trying to understand the world she is thrust into. She loves to read and has a lot of questions she has to get answers to! However, her parents are overworked, tired, and unprepared for being parents to so many children.
Mercy is very close to her mother, and witnesses firsthand the abuse from her father. She tries to understand “Big People Business” but feels left out.
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!! I cannot remember the last time I felt so enamored by a character! I laughed; I cried and cheered for Mercy!
Please read this brilliant book!
July 31, 2025
Powerful, heart-wrenching, tender and witty, The Mercy Step is an outstanding tear-jerker of a novel.
Bradford, December 1962. It’s a freezing, snowy Winter’s day when Mercy makes her dramatic entrance into the world; leaving the calm solace of her mother’s womb for life with a large, chaotic family where she never feels like she fits in. As the thread that binds mother and daughter stretches ever thinner, Mercy struggles to be seen and heard in a house where her siblings don’t understand her, her mother is wrapped up in the church, and they all live in fear of her father’s violent outbursts. Searching for belonging, Mercy eventually discovers the magical escape of books. She finds solace in their pages, in her vivid imagination and conversations with her toy, Dolly. But books and imagination can only take you so far, and as life at home becomes increasingly dangerous, Mercy realises she must make a stand and finally make herself heard to give herself the chance of a better future.
Marcia Hutchinson has been named one of the best new novelists for 2025 by The Observer, and after reading this book I understand why. With this magnificent debut Hutchinson has proven herself to be a born storyteller, writing with wit, wisdom, humanity and heart. Acutely observed, authentic and uncompromising, it is a story that feels achingly raw, righteously angry, deeply human and evokes every emotion. IThis layered story explores themes such as toxic family, poverty, domestic abuse, racism, loss and immigration. And while it is one young girl’s story, it is also a story about the realities of life as a Black person in northern England in the 60s and 70s.
Precocious, feisty, bold and determined, Mercy is an unforgettable heroine. It is impossible not to love her and she has a permanent place in my heart. Her love of literature and learning made me feel connected to her and I smiled as she found an escape in books and her imagination. She and the other characters are richly drawn and real, making you care about them and feel invested in their lives. Mercy’s family is dysfunctional and toxic, her abusive father a constant malevolent presence and Mercy doesn’t understand why her mother stays with such a monster. Mummy is Mercy’s balm but she’s also a worry and Mercy feels like it is her job to look after Mummy, though she aches for a mother who looks after her needs instead. So many times I wanted to reach into this book and hold this young girl. Although her mother seems to try to do her best, Mercy deserved so much better I desperately wanted to save her.
A magnificent debut full of drama, humour, headache and hope, Mercy and her story will linger long after you close the final page. Unmissable.
Bradford, December 1962. It’s a freezing, snowy Winter’s day when Mercy makes her dramatic entrance into the world; leaving the calm solace of her mother’s womb for life with a large, chaotic family where she never feels like she fits in. As the thread that binds mother and daughter stretches ever thinner, Mercy struggles to be seen and heard in a house where her siblings don’t understand her, her mother is wrapped up in the church, and they all live in fear of her father’s violent outbursts. Searching for belonging, Mercy eventually discovers the magical escape of books. She finds solace in their pages, in her vivid imagination and conversations with her toy, Dolly. But books and imagination can only take you so far, and as life at home becomes increasingly dangerous, Mercy realises she must make a stand and finally make herself heard to give herself the chance of a better future.
Marcia Hutchinson has been named one of the best new novelists for 2025 by The Observer, and after reading this book I understand why. With this magnificent debut Hutchinson has proven herself to be a born storyteller, writing with wit, wisdom, humanity and heart. Acutely observed, authentic and uncompromising, it is a story that feels achingly raw, righteously angry, deeply human and evokes every emotion. IThis layered story explores themes such as toxic family, poverty, domestic abuse, racism, loss and immigration. And while it is one young girl’s story, it is also a story about the realities of life as a Black person in northern England in the 60s and 70s.
Precocious, feisty, bold and determined, Mercy is an unforgettable heroine. It is impossible not to love her and she has a permanent place in my heart. Her love of literature and learning made me feel connected to her and I smiled as she found an escape in books and her imagination. She and the other characters are richly drawn and real, making you care about them and feel invested in their lives. Mercy’s family is dysfunctional and toxic, her abusive father a constant malevolent presence and Mercy doesn’t understand why her mother stays with such a monster. Mummy is Mercy’s balm but she’s also a worry and Mercy feels like it is her job to look after Mummy, though she aches for a mother who looks after her needs instead. So many times I wanted to reach into this book and hold this young girl. Although her mother seems to try to do her best, Mercy deserved so much better I desperately wanted to save her.
A magnificent debut full of drama, humour, headache and hope, Mercy and her story will linger long after you close the final page. Unmissable.
July 28, 2025
A beautiful book that has left my brain firing and my soul contented.
I am a woman of Jamaican heritage and am grateful for this book being written.
At times stomach bubbling sickening, but feel the warmth of my people as well...but mostly hopeful and funny.
Marcia has been able to capture the fantasy and nonchalant painful realities of a young girl growing up in the North of England, not of this world but viewed as one of it, with funny 'wordisms' and emotions I relate to.
Read it knowing we are all the creators of our own worlds x
I am a woman of Jamaican heritage and am grateful for this book being written.
At times stomach bubbling sickening, but feel the warmth of my people as well...but mostly hopeful and funny.
Marcia has been able to capture the fantasy and nonchalant painful realities of a young girl growing up in the North of England, not of this world but viewed as one of it, with funny 'wordisms' and emotions I relate to.
Read it knowing we are all the creators of our own worlds x
September 11, 2025
Marcia Hutchinson has been recognised as one of the best new novelists for 2025 by The Observer, and this is truly reflected in her debut novel, The Mercy Step.
Both disturbing and funny, the novel immerses us in the world of Mercy and her Windrush family, set against the backdrop of 1960s Bradford. From the harrowing moment of Mercy's traumatic birth, the narrative follows the next eleven years of her life in a helter-skelter of experience.
Despite the chaos and, at times, violence that define her surroundings, Mercy not only endures but thrives. Her resilience is evident from a young age; she is wise beyond her years, displaying a remarkable fighting spirit even as a toddler. Mercy's journey is both disturbing and funny.
It is a window into a significant chapter of British history, shown with unflinching honesty, capturing the realities faced by the Windrush generation.
The writing is rich, poetic, and unafraid to explore the gritty aspects of life. This blend of lyricism and realism grounds the story in a deeply human experience. The result is a beautiful and powerful coming-of-age novel that leaves a lasting impression.
Both disturbing and funny, the novel immerses us in the world of Mercy and her Windrush family, set against the backdrop of 1960s Bradford. From the harrowing moment of Mercy's traumatic birth, the narrative follows the next eleven years of her life in a helter-skelter of experience.
Despite the chaos and, at times, violence that define her surroundings, Mercy not only endures but thrives. Her resilience is evident from a young age; she is wise beyond her years, displaying a remarkable fighting spirit even as a toddler. Mercy's journey is both disturbing and funny.
It is a window into a significant chapter of British history, shown with unflinching honesty, capturing the realities faced by the Windrush generation.
The writing is rich, poetic, and unafraid to explore the gritty aspects of life. This blend of lyricism and realism grounds the story in a deeply human experience. The result is a beautiful and powerful coming-of-age novel that leaves a lasting impression.
July 24, 2025
The Mercy Step is a story written from the viewpoint of a young child born in the UK to a couple who are a part of the Windrush Generation that immigrated here from Jamaica.
From the off, we are with Mercy, as she leaves her mother's womb, and beyond. Mercy is an astute child, held back in so many ways by her family's thinking. She is a product of immigrants but growing up in this Western workd where there are opportunities beyond the scope of her parents.
It is an emotional ride, I have to say. On one side, she has an abusive parent, and on the other, a parent who only wants the best for her 'pikney' but who cannot separate her Jamaican/church thinking from the world she is now living in.
It is tenderly told, tugging at the heartstrings.
TW for some child abuse and SA.
From the off, we are with Mercy, as she leaves her mother's womb, and beyond. Mercy is an astute child, held back in so many ways by her family's thinking. She is a product of immigrants but growing up in this Western workd where there are opportunities beyond the scope of her parents.
It is an emotional ride, I have to say. On one side, she has an abusive parent, and on the other, a parent who only wants the best for her 'pikney' but who cannot separate her Jamaican/church thinking from the world she is now living in.
It is tenderly told, tugging at the heartstrings.
TW for some child abuse and SA.
January 12, 2026
Very early in the year to be talking about book of the year but this is going to be a strong contender. Strong, sad, brave Mercy will stay in my mind for a long time.
September 1, 2025
This book really is remarkable. Following the life of a child, from within the womb to eleven, it is both uplifting and gut-wrenching. A young girl of Jamaican heritage forges her way, moving from an all-encompassing attachment to her mother to necessary independence. I willed this little girl along, entirely understanding her love of books as an opener to the outside world, wanting her to see her difference as a good thing, a positive. Her opening up, like a flower receiving water and sun, gave me such delight. The book is written in Mercy's voice, from her perspective, and I was again and again brought to think about how a child sees the world of big people. I've never read anything like it and am so glad this book came my way.
August 25, 2025
A story of resistance and childhood. Intimate, human, compelling. You laugh and cry, often at the same time as you recognise that the thread that binds the story, that binds Mercy and her mother might be about to snap! A bitter ending or a blessed relief?
July 14, 2025
I have just finished reading 'The Mercy Step' after buying an advance copy at Bradford LIterature Festival.
Marcia Hutchinson is to be congratulated on such a beautiful novel that captures, so eloquently, the essence of a child growing up with an abusive parent and another who is emotionally unavailable. The writing from the viewpoint of the child is masterful. It is striking in its understatement of what Mercy faces day to day. I was uplifted by Mercy's courage to challenge the hand she was dealt and to take the opportunities to learn to accept herself.
It is a powerful read and one which will stay with me for life. I look forward to reading more of Marcia Hutchinson's work.
Marcia Hutchinson is to be congratulated on such a beautiful novel that captures, so eloquently, the essence of a child growing up with an abusive parent and another who is emotionally unavailable. The writing from the viewpoint of the child is masterful. It is striking in its understatement of what Mercy faces day to day. I was uplifted by Mercy's courage to challenge the hand she was dealt and to take the opportunities to learn to accept herself.
It is a powerful read and one which will stay with me for life. I look forward to reading more of Marcia Hutchinson's work.
October 9, 2025
I loved this book! Mercy is born to immigrant parents from Jamaica in 1962 Bradford. She’s the middle child of 5 currently living with her parents Odette and Sonny (although four older siblings were left behind in Jamaica). Living conditions are cramped, money is tight and her father is abusive towards his wife and their children. Mercy is such a vibrant character, she leaps off the page and into your heart. She feels like she doesn’t fit within her family – she’s clever, funny and loves books and learning. The book teems with humour and this is perfectly balanced with the difficulty of her family situation to create story that is simultaneously warm and painful. This book transported to me a time and place unknown to me and did a brilliant job of pulling me into that world, keeping me there for the duration of the book and leaving me wanting more. I’d love a sequel and to continue along with Mercy’s journey through life.
August 1, 2025
Bradford, 1962. Mercy bursts forth on the world on a cold December day, swapping the peaceful warmth, and safety, of her mother's womb for the unwelcome shock of chaotic family life. Her ever-growing number of siblings seem to have nothing in common with her, her busy mother has little time for one daughter among many, and the household is dominated by the tempestuous moods of a father quick to violence.
Despite the fierce love she feels for her mother, quick witted Mercy learns she cannot rely on her for comfort. Instead she finds solace in books, daydreams, and the presence of her faithful plastic friend, Dolly, and sets herself apart by whiling away the hours in solitude on her favourite step of their damp, draughty Victorian home.
As Mercy grows, her family begins to disintegrate in a blur of abuse, dogma, and fear. If they are to have any kind of chance of real salvation, then she must be the one to 'fix-up' and take it upon herself to find a brighter future.
The Mercy Step is one of those irresistible coming of age stories that sucks you in heart and soul, which makes it very difficult to do justice to in a review. Mercy's voice rings out loud and clear, and it is the sheer strength of her mighty will that leads you through the story, from the days before her birth to the moment she realises she must be the one to dictate her own path...
Mercy is born one freezing cold winter day, to Windrush generation parents whose vision of a Britain welcoming them with open arms is very quickly dispelled in a perfect storm of shattered illusions and grinding manual labour. The harsh realities of life exacerbate the strain of a dysfunctional marriage over-shadowed by domestic violence, cultural norms, loss, and religious strife, leaving the household constantly on edge. Every heart-rending moment is laid bare through the eyes of wise-beyond-her-years Mercy, as she tries to understand a bewildering world in which the adults around her do not seem to follow the rules of right and wrong. It is a lot for a child to deal with, especially on top of the complicated feelings that come with being a middle child in a family where her mother barely has time to give her the attention she craves.
Hutchinson spares nothing in describing every hard knock Mercy experiences. I shed many tears for her through her weighty trials and tribulations, but she has soul-stirring triumphs too. Mercy's determination not to be defeated by the weight of burdens much too heavy for her small shoulders, and her humorous inner dialogue, make her a force to be reckoned with. I completely adored her.
Mercy stands front and centre of this book, with a story as compelling as any you could wish for in a literary novel. With this comes the obvious talent of a writer who knows how to craft layers of substance around the fictional tale of a small Black girl in 1960's Bradford. Hutchinson allows you to look beyond Mercy's level of understanding to consider a wealth of subject matter connected to time, place, and the issues that faced Windrush families like Mercy's - particularly when it comes to the impact of poverty, racism, and expectation. She skilfully stiches in references to popular culture, the political landscape, and social change throughout, and makes this a heart-felt love letter to libraries too.
This book is mesmerising, holding you entranced from the very first, beautifully descriptive, words to the last. Without a doubt, this is one of my favourite books of 2025.
Despite the fierce love she feels for her mother, quick witted Mercy learns she cannot rely on her for comfort. Instead she finds solace in books, daydreams, and the presence of her faithful plastic friend, Dolly, and sets herself apart by whiling away the hours in solitude on her favourite step of their damp, draughty Victorian home.
As Mercy grows, her family begins to disintegrate in a blur of abuse, dogma, and fear. If they are to have any kind of chance of real salvation, then she must be the one to 'fix-up' and take it upon herself to find a brighter future.
The Mercy Step is one of those irresistible coming of age stories that sucks you in heart and soul, which makes it very difficult to do justice to in a review. Mercy's voice rings out loud and clear, and it is the sheer strength of her mighty will that leads you through the story, from the days before her birth to the moment she realises she must be the one to dictate her own path...
Mercy is born one freezing cold winter day, to Windrush generation parents whose vision of a Britain welcoming them with open arms is very quickly dispelled in a perfect storm of shattered illusions and grinding manual labour. The harsh realities of life exacerbate the strain of a dysfunctional marriage over-shadowed by domestic violence, cultural norms, loss, and religious strife, leaving the household constantly on edge. Every heart-rending moment is laid bare through the eyes of wise-beyond-her-years Mercy, as she tries to understand a bewildering world in which the adults around her do not seem to follow the rules of right and wrong. It is a lot for a child to deal with, especially on top of the complicated feelings that come with being a middle child in a family where her mother barely has time to give her the attention she craves.
Hutchinson spares nothing in describing every hard knock Mercy experiences. I shed many tears for her through her weighty trials and tribulations, but she has soul-stirring triumphs too. Mercy's determination not to be defeated by the weight of burdens much too heavy for her small shoulders, and her humorous inner dialogue, make her a force to be reckoned with. I completely adored her.
Mercy stands front and centre of this book, with a story as compelling as any you could wish for in a literary novel. With this comes the obvious talent of a writer who knows how to craft layers of substance around the fictional tale of a small Black girl in 1960's Bradford. Hutchinson allows you to look beyond Mercy's level of understanding to consider a wealth of subject matter connected to time, place, and the issues that faced Windrush families like Mercy's - particularly when it comes to the impact of poverty, racism, and expectation. She skilfully stiches in references to popular culture, the political landscape, and social change throughout, and makes this a heart-felt love letter to libraries too.
This book is mesmerising, holding you entranced from the very first, beautifully descriptive, words to the last. Without a doubt, this is one of my favourite books of 2025.
November 3, 2025
4.5/5
Absolutely brilliant storytelling. Even as a child, Mercy "understands life."
"she's never felt like a child anyway..."
Mind you, the whole book only(!) covers what feels like a life and a half between a girl's birth and age 12. Yet, it feels complete. Insane (positive). If you look at other Caribbean coming-of age stories (e.g. Annie John, Kipling Plass, Sweetness in the Skin, Jamaica Road), they all at least have the adult perspective. I'm truly in awe of how the author wrote something so fantastical and realistic.
I think the Windrush generation need to a seek help for their PTSD and b) be held accountable for their crimes against/abuse of their children. Especially the men. Both this novel and Jamaica Road (coincidentally published in the same month) evidence why that generation were kind of trash in their dealings with each other and their offspring. I think the generations represented in these books need to read said books.
Sometimes when the author narrates, they aren't always the best voice actors, but Ms Marcia did her big one with the text and the audio. I loved it.
Absolutely brilliant storytelling. Even as a child, Mercy "understands life."
"she's never felt like a child anyway..."
Mind you, the whole book only(!) covers what feels like a life and a half between a girl's birth and age 12. Yet, it feels complete. Insane (positive). If you look at other Caribbean coming-of age stories (e.g. Annie John, Kipling Plass, Sweetness in the Skin, Jamaica Road), they all at least have the adult perspective. I'm truly in awe of how the author wrote something so fantastical and realistic.
I think the Windrush generation need to a seek help for their PTSD and b) be held accountable for their crimes against/abuse of their children. Especially the men. Both this novel and Jamaica Road (coincidentally published in the same month) evidence why that generation were kind of trash in their dealings with each other and their offspring. I think the generations represented in these books need to read said books.
Sometimes when the author narrates, they aren't always the best voice actors, but Ms Marcia did her big one with the text and the audio. I loved it.
September 1, 2025
It was a great read of a beautifully written novel. The narrative is of an insightful, observant and very reflective little girl, who is growing up in a complex environment, often being exposed to some extreme adversities that no child should ever face. She resolutely, though, bravely challenges the conditions of her reality to achieve great things in the future. For me it's a story of resilience, determination and courage to embrace the potential against the odds. She tells her tale with an adorable naivity, expected from a small child, to begin with, to then gradually gaining wisdom, which is reflected in her descriptions, also of her inner world. She grows up on our very eyes as we go through the happenings of her turbulent childhood with lots of events with her siblings, parents, within the neighbourhood, school, etc. I particularly liked the recurring thread of the umbilical cord between her and her mum that has been stretching and tightening across the years and various events, which had a lot of symbolism intertwined into the daily reality. There is also some humour throughout, making it really enjoyable to experience with Mercy everything she's going through, despite difficult themes at times. Highly recommended indeed!
October 3, 2025
This book has one of the most striking beginnings to a story I have ever read.
This coming-of-age story set in Bradford 1960s, starts with the protagonist narrating her own birth from her mother’s womb. There was such beauty in hearing the thoughts of a child who is yet to enter the world, and this narrative was refreshing and impressive and actually transported me to the cramped and confined conditions of the womb. There was some satire in this opening, and from this, I knew I was going to love the author’s writing.
Mercy is a young girl living with her parents and siblings in a chaotic family home with a concerning dynamic. Mercy is loveable, she is a rebellious, but respectful, and is a character to root for, especially as she finds solace in her education, reading and school.
I can’t express how much I loved this writing, the book is filled with heavy themes, but the writing is so delicate, that these themes did not feel overwhelming. I thoroughly enjoyed the dialogue in this story, especially from Mercy’s Jamaican parents which did make me giggle.
There were two poignant moments towards the end of the story that I resonated with and made me cheer out loud for Mercy. She really had a fighting and confident spirit.
November 16, 2025
“You don’t get to choose your family, do you? You get the Mummy you get, and all the sisters and the One Bwoy Pickney and that’s that. No cross-questioning.”
We meet Mercy from inception. A tiny dot in her mother’s belly until she’s birthed and right up until she turns eleven, Mercy takes us on the rollercoaster ride that is her life.
Juggling poverty to abuse, to being set apart and not ever truly feeling like she fit in. Mercy is a character you just want to see win, but it’s hard when she’s just a child and her mother keeps returning to her abuser out of love.
Mercy story is gut-wrenching because on one hand no child is supposed to be privy to the things Mercy has endured. Yet again, she was born to both a mother and father that failed her as parents.
Her mother’s inability to provide the safe place and love her daughter needed. Along with her father who from day one had this disdain towards Mercy when all she wanted was love.
That by the end Mercy realized that she’d spent most of her life trying to save her mother. When in fact her mother never truly wanted to be saved.
We meet Mercy from inception. A tiny dot in her mother’s belly until she’s birthed and right up until she turns eleven, Mercy takes us on the rollercoaster ride that is her life.
Juggling poverty to abuse, to being set apart and not ever truly feeling like she fit in. Mercy is a character you just want to see win, but it’s hard when she’s just a child and her mother keeps returning to her abuser out of love.
Mercy story is gut-wrenching because on one hand no child is supposed to be privy to the things Mercy has endured. Yet again, she was born to both a mother and father that failed her as parents.
Her mother’s inability to provide the safe place and love her daughter needed. Along with her father who from day one had this disdain towards Mercy when all she wanted was love.
That by the end Mercy realized that she’d spent most of her life trying to save her mother. When in fact her mother never truly wanted to be saved.
September 1, 2025
An absolute jewel of a book. It engages you from the opening scene and then immerses you in Mercy’s childhood journey. It’s a poignant, comical, and vivid account of a child who questions the contradictions of the challenging adult world around her.
As Mercy’s life starts to unfold she learns to navigate her path with care, observing those around her, trying to rationalise actions and words which are sometimes confusing and disorientating.
In a moment it can pierce your heart then completely surprise and make you laugh. The author captures perfectly the range of emotions, longings and fears of a child in a voice that rings utterly true.
Written with compassion and humour there’s no cheesiness or self-pity here, rather a beautiful story of a young girl’s formative years, seen through her eyes and shared with us in a way that’s deeply moving. This book takes your breath away and leaves you with a nugget of hope in your soul.
As Mercy’s life starts to unfold she learns to navigate her path with care, observing those around her, trying to rationalise actions and words which are sometimes confusing and disorientating.
In a moment it can pierce your heart then completely surprise and make you laugh. The author captures perfectly the range of emotions, longings and fears of a child in a voice that rings utterly true.
Written with compassion and humour there’s no cheesiness or self-pity here, rather a beautiful story of a young girl’s formative years, seen through her eyes and shared with us in a way that’s deeply moving. This book takes your breath away and leaves you with a nugget of hope in your soul.
December 23, 2025
Marcia Hutchinson debut novel is a set in 1960s Bradford, England. The Mercy Step is a witty and clever storytelling about a young girl Mercy as she navigates the complexities of growing up with her Windrush generation parents. The novel is uniquely written from Mercy’s perspective, pulling you into her fragile world. Absolutely one of the best Audiobooks I’ve ever listened to!!! Go listen to this book!! Hutchinson is a master storyteller; writing with such beauty, wit and heart!
If you love this amazing debut novel, check out:
Smallie by Eden-Mckenzie-Goddard set to release May 2026- A British debut about three generations of a Bajan-British family affected by the Windrush scandal.
Small Axe (TV mini Series, 2020)- A collection of five films by the amazing Steve McQueen set from the 1960s to mid 80’s that tell the personal stories of the West Indian community in London! Episode 2: Lovers Rock was my favorite!!!
Happy Reading novel nerds!
If you love this amazing debut novel, check out:
Smallie by Eden-Mckenzie-Goddard set to release May 2026- A British debut about three generations of a Bajan-British family affected by the Windrush scandal.
Small Axe (TV mini Series, 2020)- A collection of five films by the amazing Steve McQueen set from the 1960s to mid 80’s that tell the personal stories of the West Indian community in London! Episode 2: Lovers Rock was my favorite!!!
Happy Reading novel nerds!
August 30, 2025
This is a truly stunning novel. Mercy has to endure so much physical and emotional pain at the hands of the brutal family and culture in which she is growing up. She writes about all of this really quite matter-of-factly, never looking for sympathy but simply opening the door to allow the reader to take in one horrendous occurrence after another. And despite the darkness of these stories, the author throws in brilliant dark humour, childish hopefulness (always tempered with a world-weary adult suspicion), powerful resilience and, rather amazingly in the circumstances, a capacity to love her mother. Mercy’s determination to rise above the violence and the nonsense around her is palpable on every page. The reader is rooting for Mercy every step of the way, but there’s no need really…Mercy’s got this!
August 31, 2025
I read this book in three (very short) sittings. It was absolutely captivating from start to finish. The main character, Mercy, has an infectious energy and you will go on a journey with her to Bradford in the 1960s, as a child discovering the world through a love of books, a determination and a rebellious nature. You will hear her mum's stories as she crosses the Atlantic and comes over to England to make a good life for her children whilst working long hours for the NHS. This book is truly northern in spirit as it finds somehow lightness and laughter in the darkest moments. The way Hutchinson explores the dark themes of domestic violence, alcoholism and abuse without leaving your feeling burdened- but inspired and motivated to be more like 'Mercy' is truly masterful. Mercy will stay with you forever. I cannot wait for her next book.
September 1, 2025
This is a fictionalised memoir of a young child growing up in Bradford in her Jamaican family. Mercy experiences domestic violence on a regular basis and discovers solace and a different world in books; there is a poignant moment when she stands outside her local library and wonders whether black children are allowed in. It is Mercy’s voice which drives the narrative; her attempts to protect her mother from her violent father, and her out of body experiences when she herself is the object of said violence; her intelligence which sometimes makes her seem like the only grown up in the family. But also the humour with which she describes various episodes in her young life.
Marcia Hutchinson was chosen as one of The Observer’s 10 most promising debut novelists of 2025 and rightly so. I do hope there will be a sequel to this book.
Marcia Hutchinson was chosen as one of The Observer’s 10 most promising debut novelists of 2025 and rightly so. I do hope there will be a sequel to this book.
September 3, 2025
I absolutely loved The Mercy Step. Marcia Hutchinson takes us on such an intimate journey through Mercy’s childhood eyes, allowing us to feel, hear, and even smell her world. Through her ingenious use of creative colourful rhythms and prose, she lets the characters speak in their own patois, so vividly that we can almost hear them in the room. I could see everything Mercy saw in her family and community, and I was transported to Mercy’s Bradford . It’s beautifully written, deeply immersive, and has had an incredible emotional impact. I cannot wait for more of mercy . You will not be able to put this book down
October 6, 2025
‘Mercy loves school almost more than Dolly (who is definitely not allowed to go). From that very first day she stopped being Mummy’s shadow and swivelled her gaze towards knowledge.’
As great a work as Jeanette Winterson’s ORANGES ARE NOT THE ONLY FRUIT, Marcia Hutchinson’s THE MERCY STEP is a stunning achievement and Mercy Hanson will stand as one of the twenty-first century’s greatest literary characters.
A direct line to childhood, Hutchinson immerses the reader in the joys and triumphs, and the abuses and bitter betrayals, of a clever, imaginative, black girl growing up in 1960s and 1970s Bradford.
This is a novel that roars with intent, declaiming the resilience of one young spirit in a hard world of casual violence, parental neglect and systemic prejudice. Without doubt, Mercy is a literary hero for our times, funny, opinionated, strong, smart, indomitable and completely unforgettable.
As great a work as Jeanette Winterson’s ORANGES ARE NOT THE ONLY FRUIT, Marcia Hutchinson’s THE MERCY STEP is a stunning achievement and Mercy Hanson will stand as one of the twenty-first century’s greatest literary characters.
A direct line to childhood, Hutchinson immerses the reader in the joys and triumphs, and the abuses and bitter betrayals, of a clever, imaginative, black girl growing up in 1960s and 1970s Bradford.
This is a novel that roars with intent, declaiming the resilience of one young spirit in a hard world of casual violence, parental neglect and systemic prejudice. Without doubt, Mercy is a literary hero for our times, funny, opinionated, strong, smart, indomitable and completely unforgettable.
August 17, 2025
I listened to the audiobook version of The Mercy Step read by the author.
Hearing the author’s own voice brought this book alive in a special way. The various accents, the laughter and the terror all felt more alive.
The tone and pacing combined with the choice of language gave me the feeling of being read to by a cherished primary school teacher.
I loved the tight chapters, the compelling narrative and the colourful descriptions.
Mercy had an incredible journey and I can hear how proud the author is of her bravery, resilience and
determination.
Hearing the author’s own voice brought this book alive in a special way. The various accents, the laughter and the terror all felt more alive.
The tone and pacing combined with the choice of language gave me the feeling of being read to by a cherished primary school teacher.
I loved the tight chapters, the compelling narrative and the colourful descriptions.
Mercy had an incredible journey and I can hear how proud the author is of her bravery, resilience and
determination.
September 8, 2025
The character of Mercy is wise beyond her years, and her voice will pull you into her story so you won't want to leave her side. She has a lot to face at a young age and does so with courage and humour. We follow her journey from the chicken shop, to the pantomime to family dramas and school.
As well as being the story of a feisty young girl, The Mercy Step also illustrates a point in time in British history; the legacy of the Windrush Generation and their descendants, and the sacrifices they made.
I thoroughly recommend this novel!
As well as being the story of a feisty young girl, The Mercy Step also illustrates a point in time in British history; the legacy of the Windrush Generation and their descendants, and the sacrifices they made.
I thoroughly recommend this novel!
November 24, 2025
I listened to the audio version of The Mercy Step, which is read by the author. It's one of the best audiobooks I've ever read. I loved this book so much that I couldn't put it down and I was sad when it was over. The story covers 11 years of Mercy's life from birth to her 11th birthday. Mercy is the exceptionally bright fifth child of two parents who are part of the windrush generation living in Northern England. It is fascinating to read about life from Mercy's perspective and Marcia Hutchinson does exceptional job of placing us inside Mercy's thoughts.
July 22, 2025
The Mercy Step was such a beautiful, and often heartbreaking, look into Mercy's life, delving into some incredibly important topics through the eyes of a child who doesn't completely comprehend these struggles. Hutchinson's ability to narrate this story in a way that was both interesting and intelligent, yet childlike and representative of Mercy's understanding of the world was absolutely brilliant. This book was just incredible and I can't wait to see what's next from the author.
August 31, 2025
I love Marcia’s use of the thread connecting her to her mummy - umbilical cord that can last a lifetime until it doesn’t! There is a real intimacy conjured up between the author/reader, the story and me, the listener. I felt very privileged to be hearing Marcia tell the story herself with such paced eloquence - her intonation and use of patwah really brought the characters and their emotions alive for me. Beautiful and painful story of self-discovery in hard times. Lived and loved it.
September 8, 2025
I honestly loved this. From the first page it felt like I’d been dropped straight into Mercy’s world her thoughts, her humour, even the tough stuff at home. It’s raw in places but so full of heart that you can’t help but keep reading.
Mercy feels so real that I caught myself thinking about her even when I wasn’t reading. Such a moving debut, and one I’d definitely recommend. I love feeling like I was teleported into her world.
Mercy feels so real that I caught myself thinking about her even when I wasn’t reading. Such a moving debut, and one I’d definitely recommend. I love feeling like I was teleported into her world.
September 19, 2025
A captivating, engrossing and vivid novel, which immersed me in the life experience of the central characters. The author deftly recreates scenes from this time period (she took me right back…), enlightens the reader with force, respect, and perfectly-placed humour. The structure and narrative perspective is inspired, and wholly successful, delivered with such an empathetic portrayal of central and minor characters and the events that shape them. I highly recommend this book.
November 11, 2025
4.5/5 🌟
The Mercy Step is a novel that tells the story of Mercy from she was exiting her mother's womb to the age of eleven. Being in Mercy head depicts how innocent, raw and real a child mind can illustrate. I really love this debut Hutchinson writing was superb and very detail and descriptive. It made me laugh, cry and keep me constantly rooting for Mercy. Check trigger warning of child abuse and SA. Definitely recommend.
The Mercy Step is a novel that tells the story of Mercy from she was exiting her mother's womb to the age of eleven. Being in Mercy head depicts how innocent, raw and real a child mind can illustrate. I really love this debut Hutchinson writing was superb and very detail and descriptive. It made me laugh, cry and keep me constantly rooting for Mercy. Check trigger warning of child abuse and SA. Definitely recommend.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews