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The Orphan Mother
An epic account of one remarkable woman's quest for justice from the New York Times bestselling author of The Widow of the South and A Separate Country.
In the years following the Civil War, Mariah Reddick, former slave to Carrie McGavock--the "Widow of the South"--has quietly built a new life for herself as a midwife to the women of Franklin, Tennessee. But when her ambitious, politically minded grown son, Theopolis, is murdered, Mariah--no stranger to loss--finds her world once more breaking apart. How could this happen? Who wanted him dead?
Mariah's journey to uncover the truth leads her to unexpected people--including George Tole, a recent arrival to town, fleeing a difficult past of his own--and forces her to confront the truths of her own past. Brimming with the vivid prose and historical research that has won Robert Hicks recognition as a "master storyteller" (San Francisco Chronicle).
In the years following the Civil War, Mariah Reddick, former slave to Carrie McGavock--the "Widow of the South"--has quietly built a new life for herself as a midwife to the women of Franklin, Tennessee. But when her ambitious, politically minded grown son, Theopolis, is murdered, Mariah--no stranger to loss--finds her world once more breaking apart. How could this happen? Who wanted him dead?
Mariah's journey to uncover the truth leads her to unexpected people--including George Tole, a recent arrival to town, fleeing a difficult past of his own--and forces her to confront the truths of her own past. Brimming with the vivid prose and historical research that has won Robert Hicks recognition as a "master storyteller" (San Francisco Chronicle).
320 pages, Hardcover
First published September 13, 2016
198 people are currently reading
5325 people want to read
About the author
Robert Hicks
100 books245 followersRobert Hicks has been active in the music industry in Nashville for twenty years as both a music publisher and artist manager. The driving force behind the perservation and restoration of the historic Carnton plantation in Tennessee, he stumbled upon the extraordinary role that Carrie McGavock played during and after the Battle of Franklin. He is the author of The Widow of the South and A Separate Country.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 340 reviews
August 30, 2016
This is a superb historical fiction novel that is beautifully written. It revolves around the themes of motherhood, love, loss, racism, relationships, the drive to fight injustice and the ability to accept the truth for what it is. It is a a study of the South in a period of flux and people are struggling to adjust to a new reality. It is 1867, the Civil War is over. Mariah is no longer Carrie McGavock's slave, she is a free woman. She is standing on her own two feet, she makes a successful living as a midwife and she has her own home. She has a cobbler son, Theopolis, who has political ambitions which scare her.
Mariah is acutely aware that many in the community are targeting blacks with violence and aggression for stepping beyond their rightful place. When Theopolis plans to speak at a political rally, Mariah feels that he could be attacked for daring to speak. To her abject horror, he is murdered, and so is a white grocer. Seeing that no-one is going to look into Theopolis's murder, she buries her grief to focus on finding out who killed him and seeking justice. A troubled George Tole, with certain specialist skills, is from New York City. He has never been a slave but has been shattered by his experience of war. His coping mechanism has been to hit the bottle. He is trying to climb out of his pit of despair and finds solace in his developing relationship with Mariah. He likes her and joins her in her quest for justice.
Robert Hicks has clearly done intensive research on this historical period. His capacity to draw multi dimensional and nuanced characters of their time is impressive. I was particularly touched by the insights he captured in Mariah and George Tole's relationship and which, in turn, richly informed us about their individual characters. As for the descriptions of the horrendous racism and its impact on the black community, it allows us to compare the past and present state of affairs in the South, and explore and question exactly the extent to which things have changed. Hicks is certainly a gifted author. A book which will linger in your memory long after you have finished reading. Many thanks to Grand Central Publishing for an ARC.
Mariah is acutely aware that many in the community are targeting blacks with violence and aggression for stepping beyond their rightful place. When Theopolis plans to speak at a political rally, Mariah feels that he could be attacked for daring to speak. To her abject horror, he is murdered, and so is a white grocer. Seeing that no-one is going to look into Theopolis's murder, she buries her grief to focus on finding out who killed him and seeking justice. A troubled George Tole, with certain specialist skills, is from New York City. He has never been a slave but has been shattered by his experience of war. His coping mechanism has been to hit the bottle. He is trying to climb out of his pit of despair and finds solace in his developing relationship with Mariah. He likes her and joins her in her quest for justice.
Robert Hicks has clearly done intensive research on this historical period. His capacity to draw multi dimensional and nuanced characters of their time is impressive. I was particularly touched by the insights he captured in Mariah and George Tole's relationship and which, in turn, richly informed us about their individual characters. As for the descriptions of the horrendous racism and its impact on the black community, it allows us to compare the past and present state of affairs in the South, and explore and question exactly the extent to which things have changed. Hicks is certainly a gifted author. A book which will linger in your memory long after you have finished reading. Many thanks to Grand Central Publishing for an ARC.
February 14, 2017
WOW! THE ORPHAN MOTHER grabbed me at the get-go, and my attention never waned!
Once again, Robert Hicks mixes fact with fiction and takes us back to Franklin, Tennessee, the Carnton estate and The Widow of the South, Carrie McGavock, but this time, it's not her story.
It's July 2, 1867 and the bloody Civil War is over......but definitely not the fight. One minute midwife (and former slave) Mariah Reddick is saving a newborn's life, and the next we're at a rally; there's a mob, chaos, brutal beatings and then......death, and poor Mariah is holding the head of her murdered son in her lap. (no spoiler here)
As we bury Theopolis and revisit the Carnton cemetery ("with rows and rows of the confederate dead") a bereaved Mariah fights a private battle of regret while determined to find justice for her son.
This wonderful work of historical fiction brings to the forefront the pain of loss and dreams for a better future while reminding us that hatred is an evil killer of humanity.
Thank you Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC!
(Having had the pleasure of touring and attending a HICKS book-signing/dinner on the grounds of Carnton after the release of The Widow of the South, this new work entices me to return!)
October 11, 2016
4.5 Stars
Beautifully written historical fiction story set in the post-Civil-war era in Franklin, Tennessee. Focusing primarily on Mariah Reddick, former slave of Carrie McGavock, her son, Theopolis, and George Tole, the story is about loss, love, racism, and change. How the loss of one life affects more than the one person, and the changes that brings about both internally and externally. While the Prologue begins with the year 1912, the story really begins many years prior to that in 1867, with Mariah, midwife, delivering a child. A difficult birth.
“This was not about names. This was, always and forever, about that one child—that hope, that possibility—who had hoped someday the world could get better, for Negroes especially, but maybe even for whites, too.”
Mariah is appreciative of the changes, which have followed the years of slavery; she has been midwife to most folk walking around this town. She senses the tension growing in this town, they may no longer be slaves, some may never have been slaves, but she knows they are not seen as equals, either. She worries about her son, who is so sure that equality could be gained overnight when she notices every detail, every look meant to put her back in her place. Theopolis is a cobbler with political aspirations, and this thought terrifies Mariah.
“But no matter how she acted, she knew one thing: Negro folk did not speak. They raised their voices in a chorus only to praise the Lord and pray for a better time to come. They did not stand before white folk and try to change their minds, try to understand them, try to make the white folk see them.”
Resentment grows as laws are incorporated, and as the resentment grows, the hostility must eventually find an outlet – will find an outlet. Does find an outlet.
“At that very moment--at least, this was the way Mariah would always remember it--she heard the first screams and shouts from the courthouse square.
And then, unmistakably, gunfire.
She spun on her heel and ran toward the square."
George Tole isn’t originally from Franklin; he’s from New York City. Having never been a slave, but having fought for the North, his outlook is slightly different. He’s seen the darkest side of men in war, and it’s not looking much brighter in Franklin from his perspective.
Hicks’ characters are so fully drawn, and seem so real. Mariah is a complex, but delightful and very strong character that you really come to know, love and champion. You can immerse yourself fully in the setting as if you were there. The writing is wonderful, but it far from being the only thing to recommend this book.
Pub Date: 13 Sept 2016
Many thanks for the ARC provided by Grand Central Publishing, NetGalley and author Robert Hicks
Beautifully written historical fiction story set in the post-Civil-war era in Franklin, Tennessee. Focusing primarily on Mariah Reddick, former slave of Carrie McGavock, her son, Theopolis, and George Tole, the story is about loss, love, racism, and change. How the loss of one life affects more than the one person, and the changes that brings about both internally and externally. While the Prologue begins with the year 1912, the story really begins many years prior to that in 1867, with Mariah, midwife, delivering a child. A difficult birth.
“This was not about names. This was, always and forever, about that one child—that hope, that possibility—who had hoped someday the world could get better, for Negroes especially, but maybe even for whites, too.”
Mariah is appreciative of the changes, which have followed the years of slavery; she has been midwife to most folk walking around this town. She senses the tension growing in this town, they may no longer be slaves, some may never have been slaves, but she knows they are not seen as equals, either. She worries about her son, who is so sure that equality could be gained overnight when she notices every detail, every look meant to put her back in her place. Theopolis is a cobbler with political aspirations, and this thought terrifies Mariah.
“But no matter how she acted, she knew one thing: Negro folk did not speak. They raised their voices in a chorus only to praise the Lord and pray for a better time to come. They did not stand before white folk and try to change their minds, try to understand them, try to make the white folk see them.”
Resentment grows as laws are incorporated, and as the resentment grows, the hostility must eventually find an outlet – will find an outlet. Does find an outlet.
“At that very moment--at least, this was the way Mariah would always remember it--she heard the first screams and shouts from the courthouse square.
And then, unmistakably, gunfire.
She spun on her heel and ran toward the square."
George Tole isn’t originally from Franklin; he’s from New York City. Having never been a slave, but having fought for the North, his outlook is slightly different. He’s seen the darkest side of men in war, and it’s not looking much brighter in Franklin from his perspective.
Hicks’ characters are so fully drawn, and seem so real. Mariah is a complex, but delightful and very strong character that you really come to know, love and champion. You can immerse yourself fully in the setting as if you were there. The writing is wonderful, but it far from being the only thing to recommend this book.
Pub Date: 13 Sept 2016
Many thanks for the ARC provided by Grand Central Publishing, NetGalley and author Robert Hicks
September 6, 2016
The Civil War has ended and the period known as Reconstruction has begun. Black are now free, but are they really? Since Hick's The Widow of the South ended, Mariah is now living in her own house in Franklin, TN. The town's midwife, her son now grown is the town's shoemaker. The blacks are owning their own businesses, owning their own property but many white do not like this, do not like seeing them prosper, forming their own communities. After a day of speeches that will leave both a white man and Theopulos dead, nefarious doings are uncovered. Tolle, a relative newcomer,a black man will take matters into his own hands, and Mariah will vow to see justice done.
Wonderfully written historical, Mariah, Tolle and Hopper, the rag man are all wonderful characters with plenty of sadness already in their pasts. Carrie will play an important role but does not take center stage, there will be much blood shed, vengeance and retribution by both whites and blacks. A novel true to its time period, a very readable novel that highlights the terrible failure of Reconstruction and how little actually changed form the blacks after gaining their supposed freedom. Loved reading Mariah's thoughts, how she saw these times and what she wished for from them. Hard not to feel for those who wanted so little and tried so hard but were doomed to failure nonetheless.
ARC from Netgalley.
Wonderfully written historical, Mariah, Tolle and Hopper, the rag man are all wonderful characters with plenty of sadness already in their pasts. Carrie will play an important role but does not take center stage, there will be much blood shed, vengeance and retribution by both whites and blacks. A novel true to its time period, a very readable novel that highlights the terrible failure of Reconstruction and how little actually changed form the blacks after gaining their supposed freedom. Loved reading Mariah's thoughts, how she saw these times and what she wished for from them. Hard not to feel for those who wanted so little and tried so hard but were doomed to failure nonetheless.
ARC from Netgalley.
September 11, 2016
A high 4 stars. I have said this before, but I am a finicky reader of historical fiction. I like books that teach me something about the history, culture and politics of another time and place, but I often find that historical fiction trivializes history or improbably imprints current sensibilities on characters and events. So I was nervous when I started reading The Orphan Mother but became curious about this book after reading GR friend Diane's enthusiastic review. And I'm so glad to have taken the risk. The Orphan Mother not only took me to a credible and interesting depiction of Franklin, Tennessee following the Civil War, but it also tells a great story. The book starts with a flash forward to 1912, when former slave Mariah Reddick makes a substantial bequest to a black university in the US. The rest of the book takes us through a few months in 1867 that explain how Mariah came to have the ability to make such a donation. The story is intricate and engages powerfully with the politics of reconstruction, the end of slavery and pervasive racism, depicting realistic and complex human relations that emerge in this historical context. In many ways, it's a dark and very sad story, but Mariah's strong character round out the emotions and atmosphere to something more complete and multidimensional than doom and despair. I don't want to say too much about the story because I loved experiencing it as it unfolded. I also want to note that I really liked the writing -- for me, it really evoked a sense of time and place without being sentimental or overly stylized. Highly recommended to anyone who likes historical fiction. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an opportunity to read an advance copy.
October 3, 2016
This is an interesting and well written account of one woman's mission to find justice for the murder of her only son.
I hadn't read Robert Hick's previous novel The Widow of the South which featured the character of Mariah Reddick and was afraid I would be at a disadvantage but happy to report this can be read as a stand alone novel.
In the years following the Civil War, Mariah Reddick, former slave to Carrie McGavock--the "Widow of the South"--has quietly built a new life for herself as a midwife to the women of Franklin, Tennessee. But when her ambitious, politically minded grown son, Theopolis, is murdered, Mariah--no stranger to loss--finds her world once more breaking apart.
I loved the character of Mariah, a strong, no nonsense woman who fights for what she believes in and you just want the best for her and justice to be served.
This is a story about, grief and loss and the quest of a mother to obtain justice for her son.
I listened to this one on audio and the narrator was good and I enjoyed the book.
August 28, 2016
To read more of my reviews, please go to Lit. Wit. Wine & Dine.
Having not read The Widow of the South, I was concerned that I may have difficulty following along with The Orphan Mother. Thankfully, it is easily read as a stand-alone novel and I'm now inspired to read The Widow of the South.
Mariah Reddick is the former slave to Carrie McGavock. Since becoming a free woman, she has established herself as a competent and respected midwife to the women of Franklin, Tennessee. Her grown son, Theopolis, is a cobbler with political aspirations.
"Theopolis had told her it gave him comfort to think that he, a Negro, might soon be sitting in the legislature with his feet up on the rail and voting according to his own instincts and philosophies."
Though the Civil War is over, racial prejudices violent crimes against former slaves and free black men and women, especially those who rocked the political boat, are widely and publicly tolerated, condoned, and even encouraged by the men to whom they become a threat. When Theopolis tells Mariah he is going to give a speech in the town square, Mariah is fearful that Theopolis will fall victim to these men as a result of his courage and bravery. Her worst fears are realized as Theopolis is murdered before he has the opportunity to address the crowd. In the mayhem and chaos, a white grocer is also killed.
The Army is sending troops to keep the peace and investigate the events of the day. But as Mariah comes to the realization that they are being sent primarily to investigate the death of the grocer, she become singularly focused on finding her son's killer/s on her own.
"I will find out. I ain't gone stop. Mariah had not known this until she said it. But now she knew she would go on just as she formed the words."
Along the way, Mariah becomes close with a man named George Tole. 'Tole' is new in town and has a difficult and troubled past. Tole is broken man; he's seen and done more than he can cope with in the war and has turned to the bottle for consolation. He is now doing his best to become a better man. As the two grow closer, we begin to understand them on a deeper level.
Robert Hicks has written a book that beautifully illustrates the strength a mother is able to summon in the name of avenging her child's murder. Mariah is a force. She does not have time to indulge in her grief. She's a woman on a mission.
There were times in this book when I, expectedly, felt saddened, angry, and ashamed at the culture of racial prejudice and violence. However, I found the overall messages of strength, dignity, and perseverance to be encouraging.
At its heart, this is a book about love, loss, and coming to terms with the truth. I was especially touched by the epilogue. I think Theopolis would have been very proud of his mother.
4.5/5 stars
Many thanks to Grand Central Publishing for proving a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Having not read The Widow of the South, I was concerned that I may have difficulty following along with The Orphan Mother. Thankfully, it is easily read as a stand-alone novel and I'm now inspired to read The Widow of the South.
Mariah Reddick is the former slave to Carrie McGavock. Since becoming a free woman, she has established herself as a competent and respected midwife to the women of Franklin, Tennessee. Her grown son, Theopolis, is a cobbler with political aspirations.
"Theopolis had told her it gave him comfort to think that he, a Negro, might soon be sitting in the legislature with his feet up on the rail and voting according to his own instincts and philosophies."
Though the Civil War is over, racial prejudices violent crimes against former slaves and free black men and women, especially those who rocked the political boat, are widely and publicly tolerated, condoned, and even encouraged by the men to whom they become a threat. When Theopolis tells Mariah he is going to give a speech in the town square, Mariah is fearful that Theopolis will fall victim to these men as a result of his courage and bravery. Her worst fears are realized as Theopolis is murdered before he has the opportunity to address the crowd. In the mayhem and chaos, a white grocer is also killed.
The Army is sending troops to keep the peace and investigate the events of the day. But as Mariah comes to the realization that they are being sent primarily to investigate the death of the grocer, she become singularly focused on finding her son's killer/s on her own.
"I will find out. I ain't gone stop. Mariah had not known this until she said it. But now she knew she would go on just as she formed the words."
Along the way, Mariah becomes close with a man named George Tole. 'Tole' is new in town and has a difficult and troubled past. Tole is broken man; he's seen and done more than he can cope with in the war and has turned to the bottle for consolation. He is now doing his best to become a better man. As the two grow closer, we begin to understand them on a deeper level.
Robert Hicks has written a book that beautifully illustrates the strength a mother is able to summon in the name of avenging her child's murder. Mariah is a force. She does not have time to indulge in her grief. She's a woman on a mission.
There were times in this book when I, expectedly, felt saddened, angry, and ashamed at the culture of racial prejudice and violence. However, I found the overall messages of strength, dignity, and perseverance to be encouraging.
At its heart, this is a book about love, loss, and coming to terms with the truth. I was especially touched by the epilogue. I think Theopolis would have been very proud of his mother.
4.5/5 stars
Many thanks to Grand Central Publishing for proving a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 4, 2017
3.5 or 3.75 rounded up. I went into this one with such high hopes, and while parts were extremely well-done, others fell a little flat for me. Hicks' writing of Mariah's loss of her son was poignant, and Mariah, Tole, Carrie, and Theopolis were beautifully written characters. I found the pacing to be a little slow, and I kept wishing for more...more action, more depth, more something. So much potential here, but it ended up being a like, not a love. Thanks to TeddyRose, the publisher, and the author for a complimentary copy.
August 28, 2016
Franklin, Tennessee. 1867. Two years after the Civil War ends. Newly freed slaves try to establish their rights amidst a climate of Confederate unrest. Theopolis Reddick, a highly regarded cobbler and former slave has political aspirations. He will take the stage at the courthouse square joining white politician Elijah Dixon and Dixon's rival Jesse Bliss.
Theo is the son of town midwife and freed slave Mariah Reddick. Mariah grew up as slave/companion to Carrie McGavock. Mariah has a reputation as a confident healer and midwife. During the war, when the McGavock house was commandeered as a hospital, Mariah was known to save both Union and Confederate soldiers. Her excellent midwifery was displayed by birthing most of the black and white citizenry of Franklin including the birth of Elijah Dixon's offspring.
George Tole, a former Union soldier was a trained assassin. He no longer had a taste for killing, only a taste for liquor. He found peace carving a miniature town out of wood and scraps. The lives of Mariah Reddick, George Tole and the residents of Franklin, Tennessee change when Elijah Dixon contracts George Tole to assassinate his opponent Jesse Bliss. Mayhem ensues, shots ring out, and Theopolis Reddick is brutally killed. Mariah Reddick and George Tole may have differing agendas and reasons but they try to uncover the truth. Who has killed Theo Reddick? Once justice is served, healing can begin.
I found George Tole to be multi-dimensional. Learning his secrets, I felt he was looking for redemption and forgiveness. Never having been a slave, he cannot walk a mile in Mariah's shoes. Mariah seems somewhat hard boiled and more angry than emotional. She is just learning to navigate her "freed" status so perhaps her emotions are held in check as a result of 40 years as a slave.
"The Orphan Mother" by Robert Hicks is a masterful historical saga. The issues recounted were realistically displayed and the story will resonate with readers long after completion of this tome. An excellent read.
Thank you Grand Central Publishing and Net Galley for the opportunity to read and review "The Orphan Mother".
Theo is the son of town midwife and freed slave Mariah Reddick. Mariah grew up as slave/companion to Carrie McGavock. Mariah has a reputation as a confident healer and midwife. During the war, when the McGavock house was commandeered as a hospital, Mariah was known to save both Union and Confederate soldiers. Her excellent midwifery was displayed by birthing most of the black and white citizenry of Franklin including the birth of Elijah Dixon's offspring.
George Tole, a former Union soldier was a trained assassin. He no longer had a taste for killing, only a taste for liquor. He found peace carving a miniature town out of wood and scraps. The lives of Mariah Reddick, George Tole and the residents of Franklin, Tennessee change when Elijah Dixon contracts George Tole to assassinate his opponent Jesse Bliss. Mayhem ensues, shots ring out, and Theopolis Reddick is brutally killed. Mariah Reddick and George Tole may have differing agendas and reasons but they try to uncover the truth. Who has killed Theo Reddick? Once justice is served, healing can begin.
I found George Tole to be multi-dimensional. Learning his secrets, I felt he was looking for redemption and forgiveness. Never having been a slave, he cannot walk a mile in Mariah's shoes. Mariah seems somewhat hard boiled and more angry than emotional. She is just learning to navigate her "freed" status so perhaps her emotions are held in check as a result of 40 years as a slave.
"The Orphan Mother" by Robert Hicks is a masterful historical saga. The issues recounted were realistically displayed and the story will resonate with readers long after completion of this tome. An excellent read.
Thank you Grand Central Publishing and Net Galley for the opportunity to read and review "The Orphan Mother".
November 28, 2016
Very difficult book to review, IMHO. You know Mariah. You can feel her dichotomy of life's work and how that is reflected back by the larger society. In other words, the complex levels of rejection and acceptance on so many varying physical and individual planes.
And yet, the sorrow, the chaos of the times, which was so often vicious and not always at the same time visible? There is something here in post war Franklin that seems not of the 1860's or 1870's or even of the 40 or 50 years beyond.
Maybe because I loved Widow of the South to a such a high level? Or because I know too much of present day Franklin? But the style of the telling or of the looking back after many years (Mariah's recounting of this in age)- wasn't, IMHO, the best way to tell this.
It's well worth the read. It is very sad. Tole and other characters beyond Mariah are depicted in an authentic people sense. But I just think there is something of the politics or the whole picture for those of such tight physical associations that is missed here. At times it was grasped, but at other times is was too elusive for such a pivotal woman's story.
The property that Hicks describes in this book several times of "knowing her people" (Carrie and Mariah both)! That was done to a 4 star level, for sure. That particular level of knowledge for "knowing peoples' habits or what they would commit in action or not" nearly anywhere in the industrialized world, is long gone. Lifestyle context for someone on your block, in the street, in the shop- nearly a total unknown. This aspect of knowing the people of the farms and the town- it became full blown in the context of this novel.
And yet, the sorrow, the chaos of the times, which was so often vicious and not always at the same time visible? There is something here in post war Franklin that seems not of the 1860's or 1870's or even of the 40 or 50 years beyond.
Maybe because I loved Widow of the South to a such a high level? Or because I know too much of present day Franklin? But the style of the telling or of the looking back after many years (Mariah's recounting of this in age)- wasn't, IMHO, the best way to tell this.
It's well worth the read. It is very sad. Tole and other characters beyond Mariah are depicted in an authentic people sense. But I just think there is something of the politics or the whole picture for those of such tight physical associations that is missed here. At times it was grasped, but at other times is was too elusive for such a pivotal woman's story.
The property that Hicks describes in this book several times of "knowing her people" (Carrie and Mariah both)! That was done to a 4 star level, for sure. That particular level of knowledge for "knowing peoples' habits or what they would commit in action or not" nearly anywhere in the industrialized world, is long gone. Lifestyle context for someone on your block, in the street, in the shop- nearly a total unknown. This aspect of knowing the people of the farms and the town- it became full blown in the context of this novel.
August 21, 2016
Mr. Hicks has given us more of "The Widow of the South" with "The Orphan Mother".
The year is 1867. The war is over and the South is having to adjust, including Mariah Reddick, former slave to Carrie McGavock--the "Widow of the South". Mariah is a free woman now. She is dependent on no one and has her own home and a thriving Midwife business. She tells herself that she built the town of Franklin, Tennessee by delivering all of those lives into the world
Her only child, Theopolis, has made a name for himself as a cobbler and has ambitions that scare Mariah. He wants to be in politics and it scares Mariah to death for her child.
The book also introduces George Tole. He has never been a slave. From New York, he has always been a freeman. Quiet and secretive, no one knows too much about him or why he moved to Franklin.
When Mariah's worst fear comes true and her son is killed, she moves back to Carrie's and sets out on a journey to discover who murdered her son and why.
A very timely account of what times were like, not only during the summer of 1867, but all over the south.
As someone who grew up in the deep south during segregation and integration this was a difficult to read. Because I know these things happened and it was a painful reminder. However, I think we need to be reminded that some things have changed, but not enough.
I would definitely recommend this book and I will read it again.
I received this book from Netgalley ad the publisher in exchange for an honest review..
The year is 1867. The war is over and the South is having to adjust, including Mariah Reddick, former slave to Carrie McGavock--the "Widow of the South". Mariah is a free woman now. She is dependent on no one and has her own home and a thriving Midwife business. She tells herself that she built the town of Franklin, Tennessee by delivering all of those lives into the world
Her only child, Theopolis, has made a name for himself as a cobbler and has ambitions that scare Mariah. He wants to be in politics and it scares Mariah to death for her child.
The book also introduces George Tole. He has never been a slave. From New York, he has always been a freeman. Quiet and secretive, no one knows too much about him or why he moved to Franklin.
When Mariah's worst fear comes true and her son is killed, she moves back to Carrie's and sets out on a journey to discover who murdered her son and why.
A very timely account of what times were like, not only during the summer of 1867, but all over the south.
As someone who grew up in the deep south during segregation and integration this was a difficult to read. Because I know these things happened and it was a painful reminder. However, I think we need to be reminded that some things have changed, but not enough.
I would definitely recommend this book and I will read it again.
I received this book from Netgalley ad the publisher in exchange for an honest review..
September 20, 2016
I'll write about it later.
3.7/5.
3.7/5.
October 11, 2016
I loved this book! So well written and engaging. I recently took a road trip to TN and visited Franklin and the Carnton plantation so that added to the enjoyment of reading this book.
September 7, 2016
Prologue 1912. Mariah Reddick, having made a sizable donation to the university, receives four male representatives from the administration. Awed by the amount of the endowment, they want to name their new library or chapel after her. Mariah staunchly refuses, indicating that the amount of her fortune says nothing about her life. Her hope is that by making the Negro university better, she might make the world a better place for Negroes and whites.
July 2, 1867. The story is told by two narrators, Mariah, former slave and now successful midwife and Tole, a free, proud Negro, a former sharpshooter in the Union army. He is summoned by Elijah Dixon, an important magistrate, to dispose of Dixon's nemesis. Tole and Mariah meet after she's delivered Dixon's child.
Set in the South during the Reconstruction period following the Civil War, The Orphan Mother brilliantly examines the tightrope free blacks walked in society at that time. Mariah's son, Theopolis, a cobbler, is keenly interested in politics. She knows trouble will come from a black man working to be a legislator a white man's world. A shot fired during a political rally changes Mariah's and Tole's lives drastically.
Robert Hicks triumphs in this extensively researched, well plotted historical novel. His characters will echo in your head and heart. Examinations of freed salves trying to make lives for themselves contrast with whites dealing with cultural upheavals. The book is honest, haunting, and disturbing. Mariah's thoughts are poignant, revealing her triumphs and struggles.This reader's emotions ricocheted so that I had to digest the story in small bits. Highly recommended.
I thank NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the advance ARC supplied in exchange for my honest review.
July 2, 1867. The story is told by two narrators, Mariah, former slave and now successful midwife and Tole, a free, proud Negro, a former sharpshooter in the Union army. He is summoned by Elijah Dixon, an important magistrate, to dispose of Dixon's nemesis. Tole and Mariah meet after she's delivered Dixon's child.
Set in the South during the Reconstruction period following the Civil War, The Orphan Mother brilliantly examines the tightrope free blacks walked in society at that time. Mariah's son, Theopolis, a cobbler, is keenly interested in politics. She knows trouble will come from a black man working to be a legislator a white man's world. A shot fired during a political rally changes Mariah's and Tole's lives drastically.
Robert Hicks triumphs in this extensively researched, well plotted historical novel. His characters will echo in your head and heart. Examinations of freed salves trying to make lives for themselves contrast with whites dealing with cultural upheavals. The book is honest, haunting, and disturbing. Mariah's thoughts are poignant, revealing her triumphs and struggles.This reader's emotions ricocheted so that I had to digest the story in small bits. Highly recommended.
I thank NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the advance ARC supplied in exchange for my honest review.
February 4, 2019
I love Civil War-era novels – pre and post – and was excited when I stumbled upon this in my indie bookstore a few years back. This is an important story about equality, motherhood, love, and racial tensions following the Civil War.
The writing is gorgeous, and the themes are juxtaposed so cleverly – a main character midwife associated with birth and mothering mirrored by events associated with death; hope interwoven with despair; love interwoven with hate.
While the story was fascinating and the characters well drawn, this was a 3.75 read for me, rounded up. And it’s mostly because of pacing. The latter third of this book really picked up to an unputdownable pace, but the first part lacked urgency mostly because this is one of those stories where the “big event” is shared upfront in the first few pages. So, in essence, you already know what was at stake and the outcome of those high stakes, as well as the answer to the mystery the main character is trying to solve … which for me, meant there wasn’t a highly compelling reason to read on.
I did keep reading, though, because the beautiful writing kept me anchored. And the story, itself, was fascinating. I also wanted to know more about the character, Tole. And there is a scene at the end involving a piece of clothing that brought me to tears. If you’ve read the book, you will understand. I’m glad I stuck with it, as the ending was fulfilling and the story one of great historic importance.
The writing is gorgeous, and the themes are juxtaposed so cleverly – a main character midwife associated with birth and mothering mirrored by events associated with death; hope interwoven with despair; love interwoven with hate.
While the story was fascinating and the characters well drawn, this was a 3.75 read for me, rounded up. And it’s mostly because of pacing. The latter third of this book really picked up to an unputdownable pace, but the first part lacked urgency mostly because this is one of those stories where the “big event” is shared upfront in the first few pages. So, in essence, you already know what was at stake and the outcome of those high stakes, as well as the answer to the mystery the main character is trying to solve … which for me, meant there wasn’t a highly compelling reason to read on.
I did keep reading, though, because the beautiful writing kept me anchored. And the story, itself, was fascinating. I also wanted to know more about the character, Tole. And there is a scene at the end involving a piece of clothing that brought me to tears. If you’ve read the book, you will understand. I’m glad I stuck with it, as the ending was fulfilling and the story one of great historic importance.
May 6, 2016
Readers of Hicks' earlier work, WIDOW OF THE SOUTH, will be pleased to go back to Carnton for this tale of Mariah Reddick, freed slave. Mariah is the midwife to the women of Franklin, TN where she has lived a peaceful life. Her life is upended when her only child is shot dead at a political rally. This is a finely detailed piece of fiction, detailing life in the South in the years after the Civil War until the early 1910's. Mariah begins a search for her son's killer that makes her confront her past as well as that of a new resident of Franklin that has entered her life. Hicks does a masterful job weaving together the plotlines to create a work both timely and timeless. He takes you along the dusty country roads of Franklin, TN, introducing you to it's residents and their changing way of life. It is a pity that one feels at times we have not grown distant from the actions that take place in this work. Racial injustice. Ignorant prejudice. Intolerance. THE ORPHAN MOTHER shines a light on both past and present, told with the beautiful prose of Robert Hicks.
July 16, 2017
Historical fiction is my jam. I love it and read a lot of it. This book was such a disappointment and while reading it I kept asking myself why I hated it. I think it is because it was more soap opera drama (twists, turns, betrayal, racism, love) and less what I like about historical fiction - the realness.
June 20, 2018
I had such high hopes for this book, but I found it to be an incredibly difficult read to get into at first. The characters felt a bit flat and one-dimensional and the story felt somewhat contrived and formulaic. I liked the overall premise of the story but just felt it went nowhere or perhaps I was just expecting too much after hearing all the praise and reading other reviews.
January 20, 2020
Reconstruction was nearly as brutal, frightening, and restrictive as bondage for freed slaves who stayed in the South. This novel contains a lot of violence and grief, but also a lot of tenderness and humor. The pages fly by. This is a sequel to The Widow of the South, which I haven’t read, but that didn’t hurt my enjoyment in the least.
Hicks begins the book brilliantly in 1912 with some exceedingly good news for freed slave,90-year-old Mariah Reddick, a midwife. He then jumps back to 1867 for us to learn the high price of Mrs. Reddick’s good news and why we rejoice for her. Knowing there will be some kind of justice helps us hang onto our seats through this action-packed story of greed, murder, and retribution.
It’s still January, but I imagine The Orphan Mother will be a top contender for my favorite novel of the year.
Hicks begins the book brilliantly in 1912 with some exceedingly good news for freed slave,90-year-old Mariah Reddick, a midwife. He then jumps back to 1867 for us to learn the high price of Mrs. Reddick’s good news and why we rejoice for her. Knowing there will be some kind of justice helps us hang onto our seats through this action-packed story of greed, murder, and retribution.
It’s still January, but I imagine The Orphan Mother will be a top contender for my favorite novel of the year.
October 15, 2016
I absolutely loved The Widow of the South so I was excited for the opportunity to read "The Orphan Mother". However, I felt a little disappointed with Hicks' latest effort. The book just didn't hold my attention the same way that "The Widow of the South" or "A Separate Country" did.
I just couldn't care that much about the characters. Mariah Reddick, former slave of Carrie McGavock, loses her son in a horrible murder, but she remains entirely too stoic. I understand that it's part of her personality and she knows she has to remain strong while looking for her son's killer, but I wanted to see a little more vulnerability from her.
Hicks' research into this era of history and his writing are impeccable, but I just couldn't enjoy it like I thought I would.
I just couldn't care that much about the characters. Mariah Reddick, former slave of Carrie McGavock, loses her son in a horrible murder, but she remains entirely too stoic. I understand that it's part of her personality and she knows she has to remain strong while looking for her son's killer, but I wanted to see a little more vulnerability from her.
Hicks' research into this era of history and his writing are impeccable, but I just couldn't enjoy it like I thought I would.
June 20, 2016
After the civil war ended, former slave Mariah Reddick struggled to build a FREE life for herself. She works as the sole midwife in Franklin, Tennessee and life is tolerable… hard, but tolerable, that is until someone murders her only son. Mariah is no stranger to heartache, but the pain of losing her son sets off a chain of events that will change her and every person living in this southern community. Readers who loved “The Widow of the South” by author Robert Hicks will delight in revisiting Mariah, Carrie McGavock and the Carnton Plantation.
Note: I received a free review copy of this book and was not compensated for it.
Note: I received a free review copy of this book and was not compensated for it.
September 19, 2016
Excellent read! I have The Widow of the South sitting on my shelf and it contains many of the same characters in The Orphan Mother. Notably, focusing on Mariah, the "widow of the south's" former slave. It's been two-three years since the end of the Civil War but tensions still run high in Franklin. Mariah's son Theopolis is excited to be part of the Reconstruction and is eager to speak in the town's centre one day. Sadly for Theopolis, the white man is not as eager and he is pulled from the stage and brutally beaten to death.
Mariah is intent on seeking justice for her son. George Tole is from New York, and arrives in Franklin with a dark and sorrowful past. He has fallen for Mariah and sets out seeking justice for Mariah in his own way.
Two thoughts ran consistently through my head while reading The Orphan Mother. Lionel Shriver's unfortunate and pathetic keynote talk at the Brisbane Writer's Festival for one - forcing me to think often about this white man writing a former slave, a black woman's story. I am not saying this isn't written very well - The Orphan Mother moves along a quick pace and offers up a great deal to chew on. Hicks however has pre-empted the question he knew with certainty that his agent would ask - the question as to how could a white man justify writing a novel about the plight of a mixed-race woman living in the second half of the nineteenth century - in his Author's Note.
My second thought - sadly, profoundly saddening actually, is in 150 years there does not appear to be much change in relations and attitudes towards race, and this story is extremely timely now given events that Hicks mentions like Charleston and Ferguson.
What Mariah had said was true. It wasn't any one man who killed Theopolis - it was the hatred of the world they lived in that killed him. He could've been any Negro standing there and they would've killed him just the same. (page 232)
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and Netgalley (and Windsor Public Library) for providing me with The Orphan Mother.
Mariah is intent on seeking justice for her son. George Tole is from New York, and arrives in Franklin with a dark and sorrowful past. He has fallen for Mariah and sets out seeking justice for Mariah in his own way.
Two thoughts ran consistently through my head while reading The Orphan Mother. Lionel Shriver's unfortunate and pathetic keynote talk at the Brisbane Writer's Festival for one - forcing me to think often about this white man writing a former slave, a black woman's story. I am not saying this isn't written very well - The Orphan Mother moves along a quick pace and offers up a great deal to chew on. Hicks however has pre-empted the question he knew with certainty that his agent would ask - the question as to how could a white man justify writing a novel about the plight of a mixed-race woman living in the second half of the nineteenth century - in his Author's Note.
My second thought - sadly, profoundly saddening actually, is in 150 years there does not appear to be much change in relations and attitudes towards race, and this story is extremely timely now given events that Hicks mentions like Charleston and Ferguson.
What Mariah had said was true. It wasn't any one man who killed Theopolis - it was the hatred of the world they lived in that killed him. He could've been any Negro standing there and they would've killed him just the same. (page 232)
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and Netgalley (and Windsor Public Library) for providing me with The Orphan Mother.
August 28, 2016
Reading this novel restoreth my hope. It was not an easy read. So many times I had to put the book down, so soon after just picking it up, to just once again stare at nothing. My soul was searched, I thought about things I haven't thought of before, and I was comforted to know that I was not alone in so many of my thoughts. The story of freedwoman, Mariah, and her former mistress, Carrie, was multi-dimensional exploring what it's like to be childhood friends, turned adult slave & master, to freedwoman and former master. This was a relationship that deserved exploration and contemplation. Hicks allowed each woman grace although difficult. Mariah's love for her son, Theopolis, was so powerful with the reminder to look at your child every moment that you can and not spend so much time adhering to the details of the day--this really resonated with me. Tole, the drifter, changed the town as he drifted through. I will not say anything else about the actual story in this review because I would not want to spoil it for another reader. I will only say that when I finished this book, I read the epilog from the author and was reduced to tears. I did not realize that this moving story was written by a Caucasian. There is hope in today's politics with people trying to look backwards instead of forwards, thinking things used to be so good, when all they are afraid of is losing what they once controlled. Freedom is not earned by the simple signing of a document, Hicks reminds us. Freedom is what comes unfortunately oftentimes painfully after. Thank you for this free ARC from Net Galley & Grand Central Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2019
I saw this book as a new release at the library and, having read Robert Hicks' earlier book The Widow of the South, was instantly interested. Widow of the South takes place during the civil war, and "The Orphan Mother" follows some of the same characters into the 'Reconstruction Era'. The protagonist in this book is Mariah Reddick, who in Widow of the South was a slave in the household of Carrie McGavock (The Widow of the South). Mariah is a midwife, and lives near her only child Theopolis in the small town of Franklin Tennessee, near the old Carnton plantation where Mariah had lived most of her life. Her son is killed in a political dispute and the story marks her efforts to see justice in the loss of her son, only to learn that his life did not matter, and further that none of the lives of the newly freed slaves.........matter. The town of Franklin is rife with corruption involving a magistrate and his thugs. Mariah is assisted in her efforts by a Yankee freedman, and ex union soldier, who has befriended her.
The stage is set for a reminder of the consequences of the civil war on the lives and futures of negro ex-slaves.
At some point during Mariah's search for her sons killer, she and her old master Carrie McGavock, begin to see each other through different eyes.
The stage is set for a reminder of the consequences of the civil war on the lives and futures of negro ex-slaves.
At some point during Mariah's search for her sons killer, she and her old master Carrie McGavock, begin to see each other through different eyes.
February 5, 2017
I had the pleasure of meeting and hear the author speak about this book. I was worried it was going to be another one of "those black/white/racial" books. After hearing him speak, I knew it was going to be different.
We are taken into the lives of Mariah, a freed slave, whom is now a midwife. Tole, a black man whom fought in the war and carries the burden of the death of his wife and son, the men he's killed on the battle field and his alcoholism. Mariah brings life into the world (black and white) and wants to find the truth about the death of her son after he is beaten and shot.
Tole struggles with his alcoholism and demons daily. He's contracted to kill a white man on the square. While he is in position, with his gun ready, something goes terribly wrong. He is forced to make the decision to end the life of someone else. He's seen lots of violence and those so badly wounded, calling for death.
The story continues as Mariah searches for the truth and finds Tole, a possible love again. It is amazing to me that white man can write with such understanding and passion. He truly makes you think about humanity, what is morally right and what is just plain wrong. The story is so much more than just whites and blacks. It's about understanding that every life matters. That you are here for a purpose, big or small. That knowing you life is worth living and being remembered. It makes you think about forgiveness and what is worth fighting for.
We are taken into the lives of Mariah, a freed slave, whom is now a midwife. Tole, a black man whom fought in the war and carries the burden of the death of his wife and son, the men he's killed on the battle field and his alcoholism. Mariah brings life into the world (black and white) and wants to find the truth about the death of her son after he is beaten and shot.
Tole struggles with his alcoholism and demons daily. He's contracted to kill a white man on the square. While he is in position, with his gun ready, something goes terribly wrong. He is forced to make the decision to end the life of someone else. He's seen lots of violence and those so badly wounded, calling for death.
The story continues as Mariah searches for the truth and finds Tole, a possible love again. It is amazing to me that white man can write with such understanding and passion. He truly makes you think about humanity, what is morally right and what is just plain wrong. The story is so much more than just whites and blacks. It's about understanding that every life matters. That you are here for a purpose, big or small. That knowing you life is worth living and being remembered. It makes you think about forgiveness and what is worth fighting for.
February 18, 2017
A beautifully written story.
November 16, 2020
To me, this book felt like a bunch of random characters and a bunch of random events that never really mixed to a heartfelt story.
November 25, 2016
Starting in 1912, the bequest from former slave Mariah Reddick is substantial enough to construct a chapel or a library. Representatives from this black university wish for the building to be named for her, an honor she refuses. It is not who she is that makes the gift possible, it is the journeys that she and others took to get there, and her wish that opportunities for more and different be afforded to others.
Slowly from here, we are told of her story as I unfolded during the years after the Civil War. Surrounded by the losers in that conflict, yet “free” Mariah provides a service to the women of Franklin Tennessee, she is a midwife. As the story unfolds, Hicks takes us through the tensions, prejudices and rumors running rife.
Ultimately, Mariah’s story touches on life, loss, love, hatred and fears, and shows in ways that are not unique to the human experience. Persevering and moving forward in her search for answers as she overcomes or simply moves on despite obstacles. Surprisingly resonant in today’s climate, the divisions, the outright hostilities and Mariah’s single-minded determination to resolve the mystery surrounding her son’s death are gripping and viscerally impacting.
Hicks has managed to open the door to situations of struggle, loss, societal upheaval and the fear-driven rumors that exacerbate situations, building the world in ways that create visual images and emotional reactions from readers. It’s not always pretty, or particularly comfortable to see the naked hatreds, the prejudices and slights that are blatant and more shocking for their normalcy. A wonderful read that leaves a lasting impression, even for those (who like me) have not read A Widow of the South.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
This review was originally posted on I am, Indeed
Slowly from here, we are told of her story as I unfolded during the years after the Civil War. Surrounded by the losers in that conflict, yet “free” Mariah provides a service to the women of Franklin Tennessee, she is a midwife. As the story unfolds, Hicks takes us through the tensions, prejudices and rumors running rife.
Ultimately, Mariah’s story touches on life, loss, love, hatred and fears, and shows in ways that are not unique to the human experience. Persevering and moving forward in her search for answers as she overcomes or simply moves on despite obstacles. Surprisingly resonant in today’s climate, the divisions, the outright hostilities and Mariah’s single-minded determination to resolve the mystery surrounding her son’s death are gripping and viscerally impacting.
Hicks has managed to open the door to situations of struggle, loss, societal upheaval and the fear-driven rumors that exacerbate situations, building the world in ways that create visual images and emotional reactions from readers. It’s not always pretty, or particularly comfortable to see the naked hatreds, the prejudices and slights that are blatant and more shocking for their normalcy. A wonderful read that leaves a lasting impression, even for those (who like me) have not read A Widow of the South.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
This review was originally posted on I am, Indeed
January 30, 2019
I'm not sure if I'm just lucky to stumble on really good books, or if handing out 5 Star ratings has become a habit of mine! I'm leaning more to the former than the latter. The Orphan Mother fully deserved 5-Gold Status, and I'll tell you 5 reasons why.
Historical Fiction--BAM, the 1st Gold Star; better than any formalized history class I ever snoozed through.
Strong Leading Character--BAM, the 2nd Gold Star; everything about Mariah Reddick drew me in to wanting to have met her in person, most of her story taking place in 1867, Franklin, Tennessee. We come to meet Mariah as a free woman, post Civil War, although references to her past life as an owned slave give the reader a more complete biography. In her freedom she has found her voice, and also the confidence to use it in her quest to bring justice for her slain son, her only child. Compelling Secondary Characters--BAM, the 3rd Gold Star. George Tole, born free, but also a man with ghosts and demons that he tries so desperately to keep at bay. GT is a friend to many in Franklin, especially to Mariah, and the route he takes to share the love and kindness in his heart to help expose the ugly conspiracy behind the death of Mariah's son, is influenced by the dark voices of his past. It's difficult to not have compassion for Mr. Tole--a classic "end justifies the means" personality.
Continuous Forward Motion--BAM, the 4th Gold Star. So, SO, easy to read this novel, as NYT's bestselling author, Robert Hicks, introduces characters, time and place, southern vernacular, and beautiful, articulate prose at the perfect tempo to keep the reader fully committed and invested until the end.
An Epilogue. Like the last forkful of pie or the final sips of a warm cup of tea, the gift of an Epilogue--BAM, the 5th Gold Star. When an author hands you a piece of their work, and thinks enough of you to wrap it up with the pages of an Epilogue, well how can you NOT return the kindness with a 5 Star rating?
Historical Fiction--BAM, the 1st Gold Star; better than any formalized history class I ever snoozed through.
Strong Leading Character--BAM, the 2nd Gold Star; everything about Mariah Reddick drew me in to wanting to have met her in person, most of her story taking place in 1867, Franklin, Tennessee. We come to meet Mariah as a free woman, post Civil War, although references to her past life as an owned slave give the reader a more complete biography. In her freedom she has found her voice, and also the confidence to use it in her quest to bring justice for her slain son, her only child. Compelling Secondary Characters--BAM, the 3rd Gold Star. George Tole, born free, but also a man with ghosts and demons that he tries so desperately to keep at bay. GT is a friend to many in Franklin, especially to Mariah, and the route he takes to share the love and kindness in his heart to help expose the ugly conspiracy behind the death of Mariah's son, is influenced by the dark voices of his past. It's difficult to not have compassion for Mr. Tole--a classic "end justifies the means" personality.
Continuous Forward Motion--BAM, the 4th Gold Star. So, SO, easy to read this novel, as NYT's bestselling author, Robert Hicks, introduces characters, time and place, southern vernacular, and beautiful, articulate prose at the perfect tempo to keep the reader fully committed and invested until the end.
An Epilogue. Like the last forkful of pie or the final sips of a warm cup of tea, the gift of an Epilogue--BAM, the 5th Gold Star. When an author hands you a piece of their work, and thinks enough of you to wrap it up with the pages of an Epilogue, well how can you NOT return the kindness with a 5 Star rating?
February 9, 2017
I picked up this book at an event in Texas and read it as a book club read in January 2017. Though I have not read Hick's previous books, I will certainly be circling back for the others; if they're written anything like The Orphan Mother, I am in for a treat.
The Orphan Mother has concise, almost prose-like language, which I appreciate. The cast of characters is vibrant, tactile and each helps embody the historical factor of the novel quite well.
One of my favorite elements however, is that each and every character is flawed. They make poor decisions (and good decisions). They have reasons for their behavior that certainly fits in their character, but the choices they make are not always what the reader might consider the "right" choice - but that's the beauty of the suspension of the book. It's realistic, true, and a gripping personal story from the eyes of the main characters. The artistry of building a world, touchable people, and action that builds and crests in a timeline spans the course of about five weeks is hugely commendable.
The Orphan Mother has concise, almost prose-like language, which I appreciate. The cast of characters is vibrant, tactile and each helps embody the historical factor of the novel quite well.
One of my favorite elements however, is that each and every character is flawed. They make poor decisions (and good decisions). They have reasons for their behavior that certainly fits in their character, but the choices they make are not always what the reader might consider the "right" choice - but that's the beauty of the suspension of the book. It's realistic, true, and a gripping personal story from the eyes of the main characters. The artistry of building a world, touchable people, and action that builds and crests in a timeline spans the course of about five weeks is hugely commendable.
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