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The Girl with the Hazel Eyes
The beautiful island of Barbados, world-renowned for white sand beaches and tranquil blue seas, became the scene of an international crime in 1967. Forty years after Susan Taylor’s whistle-blowing novel, ‘The Unspeakable Truth’ became the most famous novel by any Caribbean author, she reaches out to a young writer to write her biography. Lia Davis has no idea why Susan would choose her, but there's more to Susan's story than meets the eye. The Girl with the Hazel Eyes will show you just why there is trouble in paradise.
360 pages, Paperback
First published June 6, 2019
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1768 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
January 8, 2021
Yes! I am just getting around to reading The Girl With the Hazel Eyes and I can definitely see why it is being compared to The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo . I was kinda kicking myself for taking my own sweet time in reading this but happy I did.
I do not read a lot of books set in Barbados, especially before they got their Independence. I think the deep historical and political look in the country's landscape at that time was a very big plus for me.
I loved that the book went between two timelines, that kept me invested and on the edge of my seat. The writing was very interesting and it read like a mystery/thriller which I loved. I felt the ending was insanely rushed and I kinda guessed the ending 65% in... which isnt too bad right?
Overall an enjoyable read.
I do not read a lot of books set in Barbados, especially before they got their Independence. I think the deep historical and political look in the country's landscape at that time was a very big plus for me.
I loved that the book went between two timelines, that kept me invested and on the edge of my seat. The writing was very interesting and it read like a mystery/thriller which I loved. I felt the ending was insanely rushed and I kinda guessed the ending 65% in... which isnt too bad right?
Overall an enjoyable read.
December 7, 2019
3.5 stars
Thank you @bajancallie for sending me a copy of your book to review, and for helping me visit Barbados for #abreadsaroundtheworld!
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And I really did feel like I was there at times - this book is brimming with vivid descriptions of life in Barbados during the 50s and 60s, including the fight for independence, and Browning has a keen eye for sights, sounds and even tastes, evoking a nostalgic feel for somewhere I’ve never been.
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The story is told via two timelines, which work well together, as Lia is invited by the infamous reclusive author Susan Taylor to help write her biography in Florida, after she was essentially exiled from Barbados for her bestselling, whistle-blowing novel concerning a corrupt politician. Browning juggles the two timelines well for the most part, and I never felt like I was racing through one chapter to get to the modern day timeline or vice versa!
.
Both storylines were solid: I enjoyed the Thirteenth Tale-esque vibes of the modern day parts, as Lia slowly peeled back Susan’s cold, harsh exterior to reveal her secrets, while in the 60s narrative I was moved especially by Susan’s relationship with her mother. Her mother fought for her daughter to have the same opportunities as her sons, before we see the tragic shortcomings of mental health services at that time.
.
However, it was a little rough around the edges (like Susan herself, according to Ancil) and it could have done with a sharper eyed proofreader. Some parts just don’t flow as naturally as others and I agree with other reviewers that the ending feels rushed in comparison to the good pacing of the rest of the novel, but overall it is an enjoyable read, Browning has the storytelling knack, even if it does need a bit of polishing.
Thank you @bajancallie for sending me a copy of your book to review, and for helping me visit Barbados for #abreadsaroundtheworld!
.
And I really did feel like I was there at times - this book is brimming with vivid descriptions of life in Barbados during the 50s and 60s, including the fight for independence, and Browning has a keen eye for sights, sounds and even tastes, evoking a nostalgic feel for somewhere I’ve never been.
.
The story is told via two timelines, which work well together, as Lia is invited by the infamous reclusive author Susan Taylor to help write her biography in Florida, after she was essentially exiled from Barbados for her bestselling, whistle-blowing novel concerning a corrupt politician. Browning juggles the two timelines well for the most part, and I never felt like I was racing through one chapter to get to the modern day timeline or vice versa!
.
Both storylines were solid: I enjoyed the Thirteenth Tale-esque vibes of the modern day parts, as Lia slowly peeled back Susan’s cold, harsh exterior to reveal her secrets, while in the 60s narrative I was moved especially by Susan’s relationship with her mother. Her mother fought for her daughter to have the same opportunities as her sons, before we see the tragic shortcomings of mental health services at that time.
.
However, it was a little rough around the edges (like Susan herself, according to Ancil) and it could have done with a sharper eyed proofreader. Some parts just don’t flow as naturally as others and I agree with other reviewers that the ending feels rushed in comparison to the good pacing of the rest of the novel, but overall it is an enjoyable read, Browning has the storytelling knack, even if it does need a bit of polishing.
December 30, 2019
My rating is actually 3,5 stars. Lia is summoned to Doral to listen to the story of Susan Taylor. She wrote a whistle-blowing novel called The Unspeakable Truth recounting the scandal and crimes committed fifty years earlier. The Girl with the Hazel Eyes is a sneak peek into life on the island of Barbados, which we hear all about through the stories that Susan Taylor tells Lia who will be writing a book of her life story. I enjoyed reading this story and learning about island life on Barbados. The writing was delightfully descriptive and the characters well fleshed out, especially Susan Taylor the unlikeable main character. I was always anticipating here next clever response or one liner. However the pacing was off and there were scenes that could have been left out. The book is only 248 pages but I feel it's maybe 40 pages too long. This being said I would definitely recommend it. I feel like Callie Browning is a name we'll be hearing more about in the future. The Girl with the Hazel Eyes receiving the JAAWP Caribbean Writer's Prize Finalist 2019, I'm looking forward to her next book.
August 9, 2019
Let me get this off my chest real quick, EFF WINSLOW!!! All waste man from now on name Winslow, all ah dem. Okay, back to regularly scheduled programming.
This book was a nice, summer read which I've been itching for.
What I liked - This book really gave me some insight into Barbados's independence movement. I admit I don't know much about Barbados's history, I just thought they got independence in 1962 like we did in Jamaica. Apparently not. The book felt like an immersive history lesson and I love when a book can educate me. Callie takes us right in it from the creation of the political parties, to the rallies, to the legislation to the actual independence day celebrations. The historical aspects were very well written.
We didn't only get politics but I think the writer did a great job describing life in Barbados at that time and it was nice to see the similarities between there and Jamaica. She touched on poverty, race, social class & colourism, women's place in society all through her characters. There were times when I just wanted to give some of the characters a hug and say it's going to be okay (again, not Winslow). Honestly, the attitudes that existed (and still do) towards women and girls getting an education. Jeezum. It was so frustrating. There was a line in the book that got me, "That's no small thing in a world where being black, poor and female are enough to condemn you to a life of low expectations and mediocrity." Bwoooy. I did like how Susan's mother kind of served an example of the lengths women will go to for their children and to have autonomy of their own bodies. Even though she did cower to her husband for the most part (resentfully), it was nice to see that resilience in her.
I liked how the author went back and forth from the past to the present, recounting to live discussion, that way we really got to know Susan Taylor (or so we thought), I think she handled that style of writing well without giving too much away in the earlier chapters and making the story predictable. It does become predictable in a way towards the end but not in a bad way.
Critiques - I wanted more from Lia's character. I feel like I could have learned more about her, she didn't get as much focus and depth as I wanted.
The ending for me while satisfying felt kind of rushed, too much happened in the last bit of the book that I felt could have been spread out more evenly. There was also a continuity issue or two that I think maybe the editor didn't pick up on.
Overall I liked it and I was happy to read some C'bean lit. and support a C'bean author.
This book was a nice, summer read which I've been itching for.
What I liked - This book really gave me some insight into Barbados's independence movement. I admit I don't know much about Barbados's history, I just thought they got independence in 1962 like we did in Jamaica. Apparently not. The book felt like an immersive history lesson and I love when a book can educate me. Callie takes us right in it from the creation of the political parties, to the rallies, to the legislation to the actual independence day celebrations. The historical aspects were very well written.
We didn't only get politics but I think the writer did a great job describing life in Barbados at that time and it was nice to see the similarities between there and Jamaica. She touched on poverty, race, social class & colourism, women's place in society all through her characters. There were times when I just wanted to give some of the characters a hug and say it's going to be okay (again, not Winslow). Honestly, the attitudes that existed (and still do) towards women and girls getting an education. Jeezum. It was so frustrating. There was a line in the book that got me, "That's no small thing in a world where being black, poor and female are enough to condemn you to a life of low expectations and mediocrity." Bwoooy. I did like how Susan's mother kind of served an example of the lengths women will go to for their children and to have autonomy of their own bodies. Even though she did cower to her husband for the most part (resentfully), it was nice to see that resilience in her.
I liked how the author went back and forth from the past to the present, recounting to live discussion, that way we really got to know Susan Taylor (or so we thought), I think she handled that style of writing well without giving too much away in the earlier chapters and making the story predictable. It does become predictable in a way towards the end but not in a bad way.
Critiques - I wanted more from Lia's character. I feel like I could have learned more about her, she didn't get as much focus and depth as I wanted.
The ending for me while satisfying felt kind of rushed, too much happened in the last bit of the book that I felt could have been spread out more evenly. There was also a continuity issue or two that I think maybe the editor didn't pick up on.
Overall I liked it and I was happy to read some C'bean lit. and support a C'bean author.
June 19, 2019
This is a debut novel written by a Barbadian author which was recently released. I adore the cover and the synopsis was enough to make me pick it up when it was free on Amazon.
With a similar scenario to The Thirteenth Tale, an established and reclusive author invites a young girl to hear her life story and publish the biography. The Girl with Hazel Eyes, has a dual timeline that flowed almost perfectly. From Susan Taylor’s telling we relive the halcyon days of pre-Independence Barbados until a year afterwards. The village life was pitch perfect. A great way to learn more about this island’s past. She even included a fictional aspect to the lead-up to November 1966.
For me, the last few chapters were rushed. This book could have easily been a bit longer to flesh out the ruthless nature of a certain character. And whilst I can appreciate why the details were scant, I wasn’t ready for it to end. I wanted a bit more of Lia and Susan.
Definitely would recommend this book for anyone interested in Caribbean literature.
With a similar scenario to The Thirteenth Tale, an established and reclusive author invites a young girl to hear her life story and publish the biography. The Girl with Hazel Eyes, has a dual timeline that flowed almost perfectly. From Susan Taylor’s telling we relive the halcyon days of pre-Independence Barbados until a year afterwards. The village life was pitch perfect. A great way to learn more about this island’s past. She even included a fictional aspect to the lead-up to November 1966.
For me, the last few chapters were rushed. This book could have easily been a bit longer to flesh out the ruthless nature of a certain character. And whilst I can appreciate why the details were scant, I wasn’t ready for it to end. I wanted a bit more of Lia and Susan.
Definitely would recommend this book for anyone interested in Caribbean literature.
September 24, 2024
Os primeiros europeus a chegarem a Barbados foram os exploradores espanhóis no final do século XV e início do século XVI. No entanto, foram os navegadores portugueses que deram nome à ilha. O nome Barbados deriva da expressão "Os Barbados" ou "Barbudo", que se refere às figueiras-da-índia encontradas na ilha. Essas árvores têm raízes aéreas que pendem como barbas, daí o nome "Barbados".
Embora tenham sido avistadas e descobertas por portugueses e espanhóis, a colonização permanente de Barbados só começou em 1627, quando os ingleses chegaram e estabeleceram a primeira colónia na ilha. A partir daí, Barbados tornou-se uma possessão britânica e desenvolveu-se rapidamente devido às plantações de açúcar e ao uso de trabalho escravo africano.
Tornou-se um país independente em 1966, embora permanecesse membro da Commonwealth britânica, com a Rainha Isabel II como chefe de estado até 30 de Novembro de 2021, quando a ilha se tornou uma república.
Barbados é hoje uma nação conhecida principalmente pela indústria do turismo. Quem não imagina logo umas paradisíacas praias de areia branca e uma temperatura da água a 29ºC?
Conscience doth make cowards of us all
Susan Taylor é a escritora mais famosa de Barbados, infelizmente o seu livro - The Unspeakable Truth - não foi bem recebido na ilha e ela vive exilada nos Estados Unidos há 50 anos. Cordelia – Lia - quer ser escritora e, contra a vontade da sua mãe, aceita a oportunidade de entrevistar Susan Taylor e escrever uma biografia sobre as suas experiências.
Os capítulos alternam entre o passado e o presente. Os capítulos de Susan acabam por apresentar um pouco da história de Barbados, desde seus movimentos independentistas até a formação de sindicatos e partidos políticos, culminando na independência real em 1966. É através das experiências de Susan e da sua interação com outras personagens que conhecemos a sociedade de Barbados naquela época: uma sociedade patriarcal, pobre, racista e discriminatória, que nos revela o lugar das mulheres na sociedade.
Many Barbadian children born after 1966 took free education for granted but during most of the 1950s, there was no such thing. The cost per child of $12 a week plus $4 for extras was a major burden and the only way that many poor black children could afford to go to school was through scholarships. The only problem was that scholarships were purposely designed to keep rank and file Barbadians out of school.
Embora a mãe de Susan se submetesse ao marido, ela lutou pelos seus filhos, pela sua educação e pela autonomia sobre os seus próprios corpos.
My father immediately countered that school was expensive and he’d rather put John through the best secondary school his money could afford at the time. (…)
But she’s a bright girl.”
“She’s a girl.”
“So?”
“Wha’ she going do with education? De most that going come of it is being a school teacher and with the connections I got, she could get a teaching job easy so.”
“You connections? We ain’t got the next ten years put way in we pocket, Vincent. Susie is only seven and you ain’t know how this politics thing going work out.”
My father would huff impatiently. “So you saying I is a fool? I is man and I say that de little girl don’t need no lot of schooling. Just relax yourself and stop doubting my plan.”
“You ain’t got no plan.”
Quanto à história de Lia gostava que tivesse tido mais explorada e aprofundada. Fez-me lembrar Os sete maridos de Evelyn Hugo
AEvelyn Susan confiou-me a sua história.
AEvelyn Susan confiou-me a sua morte.
Embora sejam duas histórias numa só, gostei mais da parte da Susan. O final é previsível, mas, no geral, lê-se bem.
78/198 – Barbados
Embora tenham sido avistadas e descobertas por portugueses e espanhóis, a colonização permanente de Barbados só começou em 1627, quando os ingleses chegaram e estabeleceram a primeira colónia na ilha. A partir daí, Barbados tornou-se uma possessão britânica e desenvolveu-se rapidamente devido às plantações de açúcar e ao uso de trabalho escravo africano.
Tornou-se um país independente em 1966, embora permanecesse membro da Commonwealth britânica, com a Rainha Isabel II como chefe de estado até 30 de Novembro de 2021, quando a ilha se tornou uma república.
Barbados é hoje uma nação conhecida principalmente pela indústria do turismo. Quem não imagina logo umas paradisíacas praias de areia branca e uma temperatura da água a 29ºC?
Conscience doth make cowards of us all
Susan Taylor é a escritora mais famosa de Barbados, infelizmente o seu livro - The Unspeakable Truth - não foi bem recebido na ilha e ela vive exilada nos Estados Unidos há 50 anos. Cordelia – Lia - quer ser escritora e, contra a vontade da sua mãe, aceita a oportunidade de entrevistar Susan Taylor e escrever uma biografia sobre as suas experiências.
Os capítulos alternam entre o passado e o presente. Os capítulos de Susan acabam por apresentar um pouco da história de Barbados, desde seus movimentos independentistas até a formação de sindicatos e partidos políticos, culminando na independência real em 1966. É através das experiências de Susan e da sua interação com outras personagens que conhecemos a sociedade de Barbados naquela época: uma sociedade patriarcal, pobre, racista e discriminatória, que nos revela o lugar das mulheres na sociedade.
Many Barbadian children born after 1966 took free education for granted but during most of the 1950s, there was no such thing. The cost per child of $12 a week plus $4 for extras was a major burden and the only way that many poor black children could afford to go to school was through scholarships. The only problem was that scholarships were purposely designed to keep rank and file Barbadians out of school.
Embora a mãe de Susan se submetesse ao marido, ela lutou pelos seus filhos, pela sua educação e pela autonomia sobre os seus próprios corpos.
My father immediately countered that school was expensive and he’d rather put John through the best secondary school his money could afford at the time. (…)
But she’s a bright girl.”
“She’s a girl.”
“So?”
“Wha’ she going do with education? De most that going come of it is being a school teacher and with the connections I got, she could get a teaching job easy so.”
“You connections? We ain’t got the next ten years put way in we pocket, Vincent. Susie is only seven and you ain’t know how this politics thing going work out.”
My father would huff impatiently. “So you saying I is a fool? I is man and I say that de little girl don’t need no lot of schooling. Just relax yourself and stop doubting my plan.”
“You ain’t got no plan.”
Quanto à história de Lia gostava que tivesse tido mais explorada e aprofundada. Fez-me lembrar Os sete maridos de Evelyn Hugo
A
A
Embora sejam duas histórias numa só, gostei mais da parte da Susan. O final é previsível, mas, no geral, lê-se bem.
78/198 – Barbados
July 15, 2020
Susan Taylor lived in a much different time then now when women were expected to birth babies, cook, and clean all day. Her father didn't even want to pay for her to go to school as she started to get older because he believed her place was in the kitchen and she didn't need to go to school for that. She has aspirations bigger than most women in her village and her light skin and light eyes give her an advantage. Her mother is her biggest advocate and puts away money quietly to save up for her schooling.
Much of this story takes place around the time when Barbados was moving towards independence and Susan gets involved with a man name Winslow after taking a secretary job. She's acts like what we'd call in 2020 a pick-me. She plays housekeeper cleaning and cooking for his business meetings. She and his assistant who he also sleeps with engage in petty games for his affections. She's so sprung off the sex she throws self esteem out the window. And then she convinces herself she will become first lady by playing the role of wife for him. So many times I wanted to slap her but I had to remember the role women had during that time and how some women still are today.
I do wish we would've gotten a little more into Lia's life in Barbados. We did receive her POV but it was in relation to Susan mainly. I wanted to know more about who Lia was and what she went through and how it compared to Susan's life. There was a twist interesting twist included which I did end up guessing but still left me satisfied.
It's a slow starter but once you get into this story it really captures you. It touches on poverty, race, class, mental illness and colorism in Barbados during that 60s.
3.5 rating for me.
Also posted on my blog
https://womenofcolorreadtoo.blogspot....
Much of this story takes place around the time when Barbados was moving towards independence and Susan gets involved with a man name Winslow after taking a secretary job. She's acts like what we'd call in 2020 a pick-me. She plays housekeeper cleaning and cooking for his business meetings. She and his assistant who he also sleeps with engage in petty games for his affections. She's so sprung off the sex she throws self esteem out the window. And then she convinces herself she will become first lady by playing the role of wife for him. So many times I wanted to slap her but I had to remember the role women had during that time and how some women still are today.
I do wish we would've gotten a little more into Lia's life in Barbados. We did receive her POV but it was in relation to Susan mainly. I wanted to know more about who Lia was and what she went through and how it compared to Susan's life. There was a twist interesting twist included which I did end up guessing but still left me satisfied.
It's a slow starter but once you get into this story it really captures you. It touches on poverty, race, class, mental illness and colorism in Barbados during that 60s.
3.5 rating for me.
Also posted on my blog
https://womenofcolorreadtoo.blogspot....
July 5, 2020
Sometimes you read a historical fiction that you want to tell everyone to read. I learned something new while getting entertained. Watch my review here ->https://youtu.be/RfgLtECQUkw
June 10, 2020
Firstly, I have been to Barbados twice in recent years and this is the first time that I have read a book from there. What I liked about this book is that it gave an historical background of life on the island during colonialism, it spoke to the plight of the working class and the struggle for independence so apart from being very entertaining it had quite an educational element in it.
The book brought out issues of mental health which I think is still viewed in the way it was suggested in the book in the Caribbean as something taboo or just that the individual with the problem "gone off" as we say in Trinidad. In this little book the author brought out issues of gender. The fact that Grace was adamant for Susie to attend secondary school was so profound to me. I love it that Grace even though she was uneducated herself knew within her heart that Susie was going places ans that education is the vehicle to take her there. I believe a big part of Grace's "madness" was sadness.
I wanted so much to hate Winslow but I hated Kenneth more. I think Kenneth should have been more bold and profess his love for Susie. He is what we would call in Trinidad a soft man. Winslow acted as expected so I didn't dislike that character actually I think Susie should have been smarter.
I found the main character Susan to be quite complex. The things she went through are quite depicting of the times in which she lived. I loved how the author showed us through Susan's story that decisions we make in our youth can affect not only our lives but impact our next generation and unless we make things right we would never get that closure we want in life.
This was a good story.
The book brought out issues of mental health which I think is still viewed in the way it was suggested in the book in the Caribbean as something taboo or just that the individual with the problem "gone off" as we say in Trinidad. In this little book the author brought out issues of gender. The fact that Grace was adamant for Susie to attend secondary school was so profound to me. I love it that Grace even though she was uneducated herself knew within her heart that Susie was going places ans that education is the vehicle to take her there. I believe a big part of Grace's "madness" was sadness.
I wanted so much to hate Winslow but I hated Kenneth more. I think Kenneth should have been more bold and profess his love for Susie. He is what we would call in Trinidad a soft man. Winslow acted as expected so I didn't dislike that character actually I think Susie should have been smarter.
I found the main character Susan to be quite complex. The things she went through are quite depicting of the times in which she lived. I loved how the author showed us through Susan's story that decisions we make in our youth can affect not only our lives but impact our next generation and unless we make things right we would never get that closure we want in life.
This was a good story.
August 2, 2019
I am so happy I was able to add The Girl with the Hazel Eyes by Callie Browning to my summer of reading Caribbean TBR list. This novel centers on two women, Cordelia aka Lia & author Susan Taylor. Susan is ready to write her biography, so she reaches out Lia an aspiring writer to assist her. When Lia accepts she is over the moon for this opportunity to jump start her career.
As the story moves forward Lia learns that this “opportunity of a lifetime’ was not by chance. Something deeper and darker is being revealed and she is determined to dig up the truth.
OMG! This story had me pulling my hair out. Lol, I was literally yelling at the book “OMG!” Are you kidding me!” “The Lies! The Lies!” Browning’s writing style is truly something, I’ve never visited Barbados, but her imagery of the island had me feeling the sands between my toes. The connection between characters and all the twist and turns will keep you wanting more.
If you enjoy an adrenaline rush read, then I highly recommend you pick up this book. Thank you to the author for gifting me this copy in exchange for an honest review.
As the story moves forward Lia learns that this “opportunity of a lifetime’ was not by chance. Something deeper and darker is being revealed and she is determined to dig up the truth.
OMG! This story had me pulling my hair out. Lol, I was literally yelling at the book “OMG!” Are you kidding me!” “The Lies! The Lies!” Browning’s writing style is truly something, I’ve never visited Barbados, but her imagery of the island had me feeling the sands between my toes. The connection between characters and all the twist and turns will keep you wanting more.
If you enjoy an adrenaline rush read, then I highly recommend you pick up this book. Thank you to the author for gifting me this copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 17, 2021
“Men running the government. Men is de doctors and lawyers. But dm foolish because they can’t do it without them wives!” Excerpt from The Girl with the Hazel Eyes!
The setting is the tropical island of Barbados against a backdrop of sun, sea and beautiful brown people. Cordelia (known as Lia) was invited to write the biography of the infamous Author, Susan Taylor! The story alternates between Susan’s life growing up on the island pre-independence and Lia’s experience in Florida getting to know the younger Susan.
The author does a great job with character development so much so you can’t help but pick sides. Susan’s mom was ahead of her time and believes a woman should have an education; while her dad who’s old fashioned, believes a woman place is at home.
This is a coming of age story with themes ranging from love and loss to redemption and healing. My only complaint is the ending is a bit rushed and Lia’s story felt unfinished. Can’t wait for book 2!
The setting is the tropical island of Barbados against a backdrop of sun, sea and beautiful brown people. Cordelia (known as Lia) was invited to write the biography of the infamous Author, Susan Taylor! The story alternates between Susan’s life growing up on the island pre-independence and Lia’s experience in Florida getting to know the younger Susan.
The author does a great job with character development so much so you can’t help but pick sides. Susan’s mom was ahead of her time and believes a woman should have an education; while her dad who’s old fashioned, believes a woman place is at home.
This is a coming of age story with themes ranging from love and loss to redemption and healing. My only complaint is the ending is a bit rushed and Lia’s story felt unfinished. Can’t wait for book 2!
November 13, 2019
Susan Taylor is a recluse author who had to leave Barbados for the United States after she writes a novel that is a whistle blower on people running the new Barbados government in the 1960s. After 50 years, she thinks it is time to write her memoirs, so she hires a girl named Cordelia from Barbados to pen it for her. Cordelia agrees because she needs the money, so she flies to Susan's house in Florida to spend the next few months listening to Susan's life story. Susan has a tough skin and is off putting to Cordelia when they first meet. But over time, Susan softens, and Cordelia begins to enjoy their sessions together. As the story of Susan's life unravels, secrets are revealed, and Cordelia finds that she has more qusetions than answers. She is bound to get to the bottom of who Susan really is before she writes this book.
This book was.....fine. I didn't hate it but I didn't love it. It isn't well written. The characters are not really likable. The ending felt very rushed - the "surprise" not all that surprising. It was a short book, and I wonder if the author would have taken more time to develop the characters if it would have flowed better and been a better read.
This book was.....fine. I didn't hate it but I didn't love it. It isn't well written. The characters are not really likable. The ending felt very rushed - the "surprise" not all that surprising. It was a short book, and I wonder if the author would have taken more time to develop the characters if it would have flowed better and been a better read.
June 14, 2020
I absolutely loved this book! Callie Browning’s writing will transport you to Barbados in the 1950’s-60’s and have smelling the good cooking and the way of life on the island. Susan’s story- from her friendships to her relationship with her mother to coming into womanhood- is one so many can relate to. Historical fiction filled with suspense that has you turning the pages and romance to break your heart.... if you loved When We Left Cuba or The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, this one is for you. Plus an Own Voices writer whose writing let’s you feel like you are there in Barabados! Can’t wait to read her next book!
December 25, 2019
What a way to end my 25 book challenge! This book was beautiful in every way! The shift between present day and the past had me on edge as Susan unfolded the happenings in her life that brought her from the Barbados to the U.S.
Browning used such angelic words as she described the unfortunate things that happened in Susan's life that even death, romantic affairs, and lost love flowed so beautifully. I love a book that ties all the loose ends and answers all the questions that draft in the reader's mind.
Browning used such angelic words as she described the unfortunate things that happened in Susan's life that even death, romantic affairs, and lost love flowed so beautifully. I love a book that ties all the loose ends and answers all the questions that draft in the reader's mind.
December 20, 2020
3.5 stars
I really enjoyed this book so much. I loved the complexities of this culture in Barbados and the author does such an incredible job of setting up the politics and cultural dynamics in this world so beautifully. The characters were so complex and at time so frustrating each characters felt to each their own and so developed.
This story was so fun and interesting and stressful and overall I enjoyed the story. That being said there is so much more I needed from this book. The story felt very similar to The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo so much so in the way the dynamic between “renowned figure” and “random person to tell her story” overlapped so much. It was in this dynamic that I felt made the story lose a lot of its essence. The story is originally told through Lia, and were not sure why Lia is invited to tell Susan’s story much like in Evelyn Hugo. However, we as a reader never get to a point where we feel like we know Lia. Her parts are so brief and in the present time I still learn more about Susan than I do Lia and I found myself so curious about her and her life in Barbados. We get so much of Susan that is so rich that is really what drives this story and that same essence is missing in Lia’s character.
There were often scenes that were glossed over or summed up in one page that I felt the reader should have been rewarded more. So much of what the reader was waiting for was summed up and it was definitely a disappointment not to have that stretched out. However, with all that I still really loved this story it had so much vivacity in the writing and I learned so much about this culture and the author does such a great job of crafting characters that I settled on the 3.5.
I really enjoyed this book so much. I loved the complexities of this culture in Barbados and the author does such an incredible job of setting up the politics and cultural dynamics in this world so beautifully. The characters were so complex and at time so frustrating each characters felt to each their own and so developed.
This story was so fun and interesting and stressful and overall I enjoyed the story. That being said there is so much more I needed from this book. The story felt very similar to The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo so much so in the way the dynamic between “renowned figure” and “random person to tell her story” overlapped so much. It was in this dynamic that I felt made the story lose a lot of its essence. The story is originally told through Lia, and were not sure why Lia is invited to tell Susan’s story much like in Evelyn Hugo. However, we as a reader never get to a point where we feel like we know Lia. Her parts are so brief and in the present time I still learn more about Susan than I do Lia and I found myself so curious about her and her life in Barbados. We get so much of Susan that is so rich that is really what drives this story and that same essence is missing in Lia’s character.
There were often scenes that were glossed over or summed up in one page that I felt the reader should have been rewarded more. So much of what the reader was waiting for was summed up and it was definitely a disappointment not to have that stretched out. However, with all that I still really loved this story it had so much vivacity in the writing and I learned so much about this culture and the author does such a great job of crafting characters that I settled on the 3.5.
January 6, 2023
Let me start with how much I love the book.
It's one of the most fascinating books I've read and it's not a romance like usual! 😉
The way the book is written is incredibly moving and enchanting.
It is like a biography from the unique Barbados' world, that starts in the fifties and describes an "exciting" and unique life story of a Barbadian girl from her point of view.
A raw, brutal, and authentic written tale of what it was like to be born in Barbados in the 1950's and 1960's, to be born into a life of hardship.
I had no idea what this book was about before I started reading it, I went in blind and I'm glad I did.
I will not write anything about the topic or events in this book.
I think going blind is the best way to enjoy this book.
Just read this beautiful book and enjoy this wonderful story.
I'm so glad I read the book. It's just a shame I waited so long to do it.
It is my first book about Barbados and by this author, but it will definitely not be my last.
I recommend this book to everyone.
It's one of the most fascinating books I've read and it's not a romance like usual! 😉
The way the book is written is incredibly moving and enchanting.
It is like a biography from the unique Barbados' world, that starts in the fifties and describes an "exciting" and unique life story of a Barbadian girl from her point of view.
A raw, brutal, and authentic written tale of what it was like to be born in Barbados in the 1950's and 1960's, to be born into a life of hardship.
I had no idea what this book was about before I started reading it, I went in blind and I'm glad I did.
I will not write anything about the topic or events in this book.
I think going blind is the best way to enjoy this book.
Just read this beautiful book and enjoy this wonderful story.
I'm so glad I read the book. It's just a shame I waited so long to do it.
It is my first book about Barbados and by this author, but it will definitely not be my last.
I recommend this book to everyone.
October 20, 2020
I know I enjoy a book when I start and keep on reading til the end. This one took me 5 hrs.
Beautiful heart-rending story of the lives of Susan and Lia running invisibly in parallel lines on the common tracks of family, love, friendship, and home.
Set in Barbados (1950s and 1960s) and Florida (2015), flowing seamlessly between past and present, regrets and upsets, the seen and our ghosts trailing tirelessly. A young women gets the opportunity of a lifetime to serve as biographer for perhaps the most famous and reclusive author to emerge from her home country - BIM. Armed with her notebook, pen and smarts, she is determined to unearth all the treasures of this elder sourpuss and this she does and more.
Note to self: The mirror is always a good starting point for every mystery. Thanks @rebelwomenlit for this pick.
Beautiful heart-rending story of the lives of Susan and Lia running invisibly in parallel lines on the common tracks of family, love, friendship, and home.
Set in Barbados (1950s and 1960s) and Florida (2015), flowing seamlessly between past and present, regrets and upsets, the seen and our ghosts trailing tirelessly. A young women gets the opportunity of a lifetime to serve as biographer for perhaps the most famous and reclusive author to emerge from her home country - BIM. Armed with her notebook, pen and smarts, she is determined to unearth all the treasures of this elder sourpuss and this she does and more.
Note to self: The mirror is always a good starting point for every mystery. Thanks @rebelwomenlit for this pick.
October 8, 2019
This is the first book I’ve read about Barbados. I knew nothing about the history or culture, and I loved learning more. Lia and Susan’s dynamic was great, and I loved the short chapters of the present breaking up Susan’s story. I did see part of the ending coming, but in a “I knew it!” way rather than a “duh” way. I really really liked how the ending was presented and how everything was wrapped up (no spoilers though!)
Also, Winslow was the worst. I’m a sucker for the nice guy, and wanted to shake young Susan soooo many times for her bad choices.
Also, Winslow was the worst. I’m a sucker for the nice guy, and wanted to shake young Susan soooo many times for her bad choices.
February 19, 2021
I so loved this novel, wonderful historical fiction.
October 7, 2025
Barbados has a unique geographic position; we sit to the right of the chain like a wayward child separated from its peers.
(spoilers)
This book has a simple, understated premise and an intriguing story, brimming with heartwarming moments and thrilling secrets. It effortlessly presents a rare and impactful glimpse into the old landscape of Barbados, a history too rarely depicted or discussed in our media, told through the lens of an interesting cast of characters and tackling themes of love, gender, family, friendship, and the trauma we carry in our bones. But often flat scenes and forgettable, bland twists linger like a bad taste and, unfortunately, bring the book down.
It was mostly a mixed bag, this. While it skillfully weaves depictions of Barbadian culture, political messaging, and historical womanhood with fast-paced, well-flowing writing, and offers a nuanced depiction of a country freeing itself from the yoke of its colonial masters, the main present-day plot mostly tripped over its own feet. The chapters in the past were seriously fantastic and explored some key aspects of history I've never really considered. You can feel the amount of care, research, and thought put into them, but whenever we flipped back to the present with Lia and Susan, I wished we could immediately go back to where we just had been.
Both women were compelling enough characters, and I was invested in their lives enough to care what happened to them, but I think perhaps they should have been given more to do. Still to form such a close connection in so short a time is the testament to the strength of the writing.
The Bajan of it all was great, there is nothing like seeing yourself, your people, and your country so masterfully put onto the page. The relatability made me giddy with smiles, its authenticity is undeniable. It felt wholly and unabashedly Bajan, no holds barred, and I loved that above all else.
All we have in this life is time.
The problem was that the 'truth' that was built up through the whole book, the grand reveal, didn't live up to what it promised. There was an overwhelming sense of "That's it?" when we were finally told what happened. I thought there would be more to it than what we're told initially by Lia in the book's first chapter, but no, that's all there is. As I closed the book, I was overwhelmed by a wave of dissatisfaction, even though the journey had been enjoyable. The ending itself caught me way off guard, rushed in its desire to be done. It actually gave me whiplash.
The final twist was much better, predictable, but still packed a punch. We should have had more time to let it linger, rather than the topsy-turvy flipping around that happened instead. I had to turn the page back multiple times to see if I was understanding or if I had missed something. I was stunned into confusion at how quickly (and messily) it unraveled. It was too fast, too soon, but even in that, it was emotionally impactful, which makes me think about how much better it would have worked with more time.
I did think Susan was slightly silly in what she did. All that time together, and you've told your granddaughter nothing. I understand everything that had made her into who she was, I understood why she did it, but it was still nonsensical to me. Stop biting your tongue and tell her the truth so you can bond in your last moments. What would it really have cost? Though I suppose people don't always do the smart thing, they don't always do what they should or what they want. And in that, Susan is human.
Ultimately, this is a human story about people making mistakes and living in hard times, but still doing what they can with what they have with the people they love. A quick, biting narrative with strong portrayals of past historical life framed through the lens of a woman coming-of-age in an era of great sweeping change, revealing truths about Barbados I have never once thought of.
December 30, 2020
More a 3.5 than a 3 but we're still waiting on Goodreads to add half stars.
I enjoyed the reflection on Barbados' independence movement. I love historical fiction so that's always a plus with me. I also enjoyed the use of Bajan proverbs and idioms, especially because they were well placed and not overly didactic.
At times however, the writing just didn't do it for me and it dragged a bit towards the end. On some levels the dialogue and writing in the historical sections read more believably, and those were the parts I was eager to get back to reading. Whereas for the modern day sections, I struggled to believe that Lia didn't recognize she was in a senior village for so long or that she was so comfortable in a 2015 scenario without internet access for as long as she seemed to be. One of the things I wasn't sure of as a reader with the historical sections was whether it was meant to be a reflection from a modern day perspective or a verbatim quote of what the character would have said at the time. I remembered there were a few terms that made me pause because it didn't seem like someone would have said them in late 1960s Barbados.
All the same it was an overall good read and I am hopeful that the author will continue to bring us more stories!
I enjoyed the reflection on Barbados' independence movement. I love historical fiction so that's always a plus with me. I also enjoyed the use of Bajan proverbs and idioms, especially because they were well placed and not overly didactic.
At times however, the writing just didn't do it for me and it dragged a bit towards the end. On some levels the dialogue and writing in the historical sections read more believably, and those were the parts I was eager to get back to reading. Whereas for the modern day sections, I struggled to believe that Lia didn't recognize she was in a senior village for so long or that she was so comfortable in a 2015 scenario without internet access for as long as she seemed to be. One of the things I wasn't sure of as a reader with the historical sections was whether it was meant to be a reflection from a modern day perspective or a verbatim quote of what the character would have said at the time. I remembered there were a few terms that made me pause because it didn't seem like someone would have said them in late 1960s Barbados.
All the same it was an overall good read and I am hopeful that the author will continue to bring us more stories!
October 7, 2020
The Girl With The Hazel Eyes by Callie Browning tells the story of Susan a whistle blower from Barbados, told through Lia, a young writer who has been summoned to tell Susan's story. The real story that no-one else knows.
The story follows Susan's past life and what led up to her needing Lia to tell the story of this mysterious and reclusive woman.
Callie Browning takes us back and forth between present and past and her descriptions are atmospheric. Her characters are vivid and you feel like a fly on the wall, watching, listening to these people's lives, sometimes guiltily in their private moments. Beautifully written.
The story follows Susan's past life and what led up to her needing Lia to tell the story of this mysterious and reclusive woman.
Callie Browning takes us back and forth between present and past and her descriptions are atmospheric. Her characters are vivid and you feel like a fly on the wall, watching, listening to these people's lives, sometimes guiltily in their private moments. Beautifully written.
December 1, 2020
The Girl With The Hazel Eyes is a historical fiction novel using the country's journey towards independence, as a backdrop for discussing racism, poverty, colonialism, mental health, and patriarchy.
Browning's writing flows beautifully and evokes vivid imagery. Her descriptions of life during the 1950s and 60s in Barbados reminded me of anecdotes from my own family. So much so that many times while reading, I put the book down to call my mom or auntie to learn more about their experiences.
This book allowed me to connect with and think about my Bajan heritage in a way I hadn't before. For that, I'm truly grateful.
Browning's writing flows beautifully and evokes vivid imagery. Her descriptions of life during the 1950s and 60s in Barbados reminded me of anecdotes from my own family. So much so that many times while reading, I put the book down to call my mom or auntie to learn more about their experiences.
This book allowed me to connect with and think about my Bajan heritage in a way I hadn't before. For that, I'm truly grateful.
January 26, 2021
I get the comparison to The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, though I think that book was done much better. That's not to say The Girl with the Hazel Eyes was not good - I liked reading about Barbados' independence as that's not a topic I'm familiar with (though, me being me, I was Googling a lot to see what was true and what was artistic license). I guessed the twist pretty early on, and it was a bit of a letdown that there wasn't much of a resolution there. The pacing was off in a few places and it felt like the book ended a bit too abruptly. Overall, the book was fine, but I just needed a bit more from it.
June 23, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. The story is interesting and kept me reading. I liked the flashbacks to Barbados. It was very good, and I highly recommend it!
February 17, 2021
First off, let me just say how beautiful the cover of this book is, and even though I was able to grab this book for free on Amazon through one of my favorite bookstagrammers story on Instagram. The book cover is what caught my attention, and to make matter worse, how @_lalabear hyped this book up I could not refuse to get the free copy - with all the hype that she did, I was not disappointed. Thanks for sharing Lala!
This is my very first book with a setting in Barbados and I was blown away. I love the fact that Callie Browning did an amazing job by telling the story in two different eras. So far me going into this book with no knowledge of Barbados's historical background during colonialism. I indeed left this book feeling well educated about its history, which dealt with politics, the struggles with mental health, sexual assault (I liked how Kenneth crippled the man for assaulting Susan like this dude had no right to touch the woman without her permission... and the funny thing about this he had a whole wife at home...BIG CHUPZ!!)
Even though this book started a bit slow for me it quickly picked up, and I found myself skipping chapters to get to another just because, things were so hot in a particular era, and I could wait. So I read ahead and then go back to the chapters that I wouldn't have skipped.
I loved the romantic relationship with Susan and Kenneth, and I was rooting for them, but women always tend to choose a nigga, with money, a car, a big house and those are the ones that tend to hurt us and have us looking like an idiot, just like how Winslow had Susan for a fool. At different points in the book, I wished that I could have jumped into the book and cut him...LOL!
It's crazy how I figured out that Susan and Lia were related before actually reading it (yup me slow bad). The first clue that I got, was that I was staring at the cover of the book one day when I realized that there were two faces with hazel eyes on the book cover. I couldn't believe to myself that I was reading this book for so long and did not discover until I was almost finished with the book that there were two faces on the cover. That's when I got an AHA moment, I cracked myself up at that point. Another thing that made me questioned, their relationship again was when Lia was in the kitchen with Susan's helper, and the helper commented on her eyes, and I was like...OMG, it's her granddaughter for real. That is when I understood why Susan didn't pull up Lia more for searching her room. So, with that being said the ending was super predictable for me.
Things that I question:
1. I still don't get why Winslow had to kill, Susan's mother?
2. I know that Susan's daughter died in a car accident, was it a setup from Winslow?
3. Is it because of cancer why Susan didn't marry Kenneth when he asked after all those years?
I'd recommend this book to everyone because the writing was great and it grabs your attention. Thank you Callie @bajancallie!
This is my very first book with a setting in Barbados and I was blown away. I love the fact that Callie Browning did an amazing job by telling the story in two different eras. So far me going into this book with no knowledge of Barbados's historical background during colonialism. I indeed left this book feeling well educated about its history, which dealt with politics, the struggles with mental health, sexual assault (I liked how Kenneth crippled the man for assaulting Susan like this dude had no right to touch the woman without her permission... and the funny thing about this he had a whole wife at home...BIG CHUPZ!!)
Even though this book started a bit slow for me it quickly picked up, and I found myself skipping chapters to get to another just because, things were so hot in a particular era, and I could wait. So I read ahead and then go back to the chapters that I wouldn't have skipped.
I loved the romantic relationship with Susan and Kenneth, and I was rooting for them, but women always tend to choose a nigga, with money, a car, a big house and those are the ones that tend to hurt us and have us looking like an idiot, just like how Winslow had Susan for a fool. At different points in the book, I wished that I could have jumped into the book and cut him...LOL!
It's crazy how I figured out that Susan and Lia were related before actually reading it (yup me slow bad). The first clue that I got, was that I was staring at the cover of the book one day when I realized that there were two faces with hazel eyes on the book cover. I couldn't believe to myself that I was reading this book for so long and did not discover until I was almost finished with the book that there were two faces on the cover. That's when I got an AHA moment, I cracked myself up at that point. Another thing that made me questioned, their relationship again was when Lia was in the kitchen with Susan's helper, and the helper commented on her eyes, and I was like...OMG, it's her granddaughter for real. That is when I understood why Susan didn't pull up Lia more for searching her room. So, with that being said the ending was super predictable for me.
Things that I question:
1. I still don't get why Winslow had to kill, Susan's mother?
2. I know that Susan's daughter died in a car accident, was it a setup from Winslow?
3. Is it because of cancer why Susan didn't marry Kenneth when he asked after all those years?
I'd recommend this book to everyone because the writing was great and it grabs your attention. Thank you Callie @bajancallie!
January 6, 2021
Summary: Lia has always dreamed of becoming a famous author but knew that that dream wouldn’t come to fruition in her small island, Barbados. When, one day, she receives an invitation from Susan Taylor – THE Susan Taylor, the Barbadian author who became famous (and not in a good way) for her book – she jumped at the opportunity to go to the U.S. to write Ms. Taylor’s memoir. Her dream seems to fizzle when she realizes that Ms. Taylor is a cantankerous and miserable old lady. However, focusing on her goal, Lia listens to Ms. Taylor – day after day – tell her story of love and sacrifice in her home island, the story that has more to do with Lia than she realizes.
Short review: An absolutely amazing story that will reel you in and leave you wanting more.
Long review: If you love a good story with the right amount of suspense and drama, intertwined with the culture of a Caribbean Island, then you will love this book. I know I did! There were just so many things to love.
Callie Browning delivers a beautiful story that had me hooked from start to finish. It flowed smoothly with a well-developed plot, characters and scenery, and it was rich with Barbadian culture. Of course, one of the things I love about reading books based in the Caribbean and written by Caribbean authors, is the similarities with the culture of my own home island, Jamaica. I love reading them and going, “Awww that’s just like in Jamaica!” LOL. Another thing I love when reading a book is being able to see the story unfold through the eyes of the protagonist…it’s just an amazing feeling, and I felt that while reading this book.
What I liked:
1. Lovely characters so well-described that I felt like I knew them. I found all to be intriguing, even the bad ones.
2. Beautifully described scenery and environment; I’ve never been to Barbados but reading this book, I feel like I’ve travelled, back in time, to the 1960s.
3. Was clearly well-researched; the political, economic and social aspects of the times as well as the environment added a realness to the story.
I see that there is a follow-up, which I cannot wait to read because I want to know more of the protagonist’s story.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves drama and suspense with some Caribbean culture. You won’t be able to put the book down. Give it a read. Thank me later :D.
Short review: An absolutely amazing story that will reel you in and leave you wanting more.
Long review: If you love a good story with the right amount of suspense and drama, intertwined with the culture of a Caribbean Island, then you will love this book. I know I did! There were just so many things to love.
Callie Browning delivers a beautiful story that had me hooked from start to finish. It flowed smoothly with a well-developed plot, characters and scenery, and it was rich with Barbadian culture. Of course, one of the things I love about reading books based in the Caribbean and written by Caribbean authors, is the similarities with the culture of my own home island, Jamaica. I love reading them and going, “Awww that’s just like in Jamaica!” LOL. Another thing I love when reading a book is being able to see the story unfold through the eyes of the protagonist…it’s just an amazing feeling, and I felt that while reading this book.
What I liked:
1. Lovely characters so well-described that I felt like I knew them. I found all to be intriguing, even the bad ones.
2. Beautifully described scenery and environment; I’ve never been to Barbados but reading this book, I feel like I’ve travelled, back in time, to the 1960s.
3. Was clearly well-researched; the political, economic and social aspects of the times as well as the environment added a realness to the story.
I see that there is a follow-up, which I cannot wait to read because I want to know more of the protagonist’s story.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves drama and suspense with some Caribbean culture. You won’t be able to put the book down. Give it a read. Thank me later :D.
June 14, 2020
“...Rehashing these unpleasant memories is much like bathing oneself in ice water; it’s an interesting notion until you do it and everything starts to ache”
⠀
Sigh. I just finished this book and I’m quivering in emotion and drenched in tears. To say I found it to be a magnificent masterpiece is an understatement. For me, reading this was an experience. Like sitting in the yard, drinking a cold glass of iced tea listening to my great aunt share stories that shaped her life.
⠀
I’ve had this book on my tbr for nearly a year, but when I saw a buddy read, and discussion with the author I decided this would be the perfect time to delve into it. And, this was the perfect time. My emotions have been boiling over the last couple weeks and I needed time to cry.
⠀
I loved everything about this book. The stunning cover! How it pulled me in from the first page with Susan’s fiery spunk. My curiosity of what she’d done to have her labeled “Pretty-Eyed Susan”, the equivalent of a snitch. The immaculate details of Barbadian culture, life, food, dialect. I was deeply rooted in Susan’s early life leading up to fleeing Barbados, as well as, the new bond she and Lia formed while working on the biography. Seeing the guard lifting as Susan shared her story & bares her soul. The depth of the stories, past and present.
⠀
Every. single. aspect. captivated me. I needed more!
⠀
⭐️:5/5
************************************
#bookstagram #bookstagrammer #bookworm #booksharks #goodreadschallenge #bookishladiesclub #bookgirlmagic #bookblog #blackbookblogger #bookishgirl #greatbooks #bookcommunity #bookreader #buddyreads #5starbooks #blackgirlsread #readergram #girlswhoread #bookreview #diversespines #thegirlwiththehazeleyes #bookishlove #booklover #bookrecs #calliebrowning #blackbooksmatter #amplifyblackvoices #amplifymelaninvoices #carribeanbooks
⠀
Sigh. I just finished this book and I’m quivering in emotion and drenched in tears. To say I found it to be a magnificent masterpiece is an understatement. For me, reading this was an experience. Like sitting in the yard, drinking a cold glass of iced tea listening to my great aunt share stories that shaped her life.
⠀
I’ve had this book on my tbr for nearly a year, but when I saw a buddy read, and discussion with the author I decided this would be the perfect time to delve into it. And, this was the perfect time. My emotions have been boiling over the last couple weeks and I needed time to cry.
⠀
I loved everything about this book. The stunning cover! How it pulled me in from the first page with Susan’s fiery spunk. My curiosity of what she’d done to have her labeled “Pretty-Eyed Susan”, the equivalent of a snitch. The immaculate details of Barbadian culture, life, food, dialect. I was deeply rooted in Susan’s early life leading up to fleeing Barbados, as well as, the new bond she and Lia formed while working on the biography. Seeing the guard lifting as Susan shared her story & bares her soul. The depth of the stories, past and present.
⠀
Every. single. aspect. captivated me. I needed more!
⠀
⭐️:5/5
************************************
#bookstagram #bookstagrammer #bookworm #booksharks #goodreadschallenge #bookishladiesclub #bookgirlmagic #bookblog #blackbookblogger #bookishgirl #greatbooks #bookcommunity #bookreader #buddyreads #5starbooks #blackgirlsread #readergram #girlswhoread #bookreview #diversespines #thegirlwiththehazeleyes #bookishlove #booklover #bookrecs #calliebrowning #blackbooksmatter #amplifyblackvoices #amplifymelaninvoices #carribeanbooks
January 24, 2021
Every now and again you run across one of those books that touches your soul so deeply that you forget it was a story you just read. I personally feel like I lived the lives of Susan Taylor and Cordelia ‘Lia’ Davis. What a beautiful poignant story to have experienced!
When Lia sets foot on Susan Taylor’s doorsteps, she was totally overwhelmed and excited at the same time. She was given an opportunity of a lifetime—to write the biography of Ms. Taylor. Susan Taylor was originally from Barbados now living in Miami, Florida. Due to Susan’s wicked writing skills, she was forced to flee her beautiful country and go into hiding. Hmm, hiding from what? Well, for starters Susan Taylor was hiding and dare I say it, running from her past. But that was all about to change when she decided she wanted to have her biography written.
When Lia and Susan first get together to discuss the mapping out of Susan’s biography, immediately Lia is met with resistance. And not only resistance, but a healthy dose of rude and insensitive behavior. Lia was beginning to think the older woman sitting across from her with the gorgeous hazel eyes wasn’t worth taking money from to write her story. But, as Lia learned the many shades and moods of Susan, she was glad she stuck it out. Nerds, this is where the story bends between Susan’s past in the 60's and her present with Lia in 2015.
When I tell you this was an amazing story, that’s truly an understatement! Browning commanded the reader to take notice of her richly crafted characters. I want to tell you so much more, but to do so would give the story away and you already know how I feel about spoilers! If it weren’t for this pandemic, I’d love to hop on a plane and head to Barbados right now. I could see the country so vividly and the story that Susan begins to tell the reader is an incredible one of family, friendship, political ties, greed and murder. I could not get enough of Susan’s and Lia’s stories and how they mirrored one another and yet were different. This story will stick with me like my all-time favorite by Sue Monk Kidd’s Secret Life of Bees. Oh my, what a wonderful read! This story just puts me in a good mood!
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When Lia sets foot on Susan Taylor’s doorsteps, she was totally overwhelmed and excited at the same time. She was given an opportunity of a lifetime—to write the biography of Ms. Taylor. Susan Taylor was originally from Barbados now living in Miami, Florida. Due to Susan’s wicked writing skills, she was forced to flee her beautiful country and go into hiding. Hmm, hiding from what? Well, for starters Susan Taylor was hiding and dare I say it, running from her past. But that was all about to change when she decided she wanted to have her biography written.
When Lia and Susan first get together to discuss the mapping out of Susan’s biography, immediately Lia is met with resistance. And not only resistance, but a healthy dose of rude and insensitive behavior. Lia was beginning to think the older woman sitting across from her with the gorgeous hazel eyes wasn’t worth taking money from to write her story. But, as Lia learned the many shades and moods of Susan, she was glad she stuck it out. Nerds, this is where the story bends between Susan’s past in the 60's and her present with Lia in 2015.
When I tell you this was an amazing story, that’s truly an understatement! Browning commanded the reader to take notice of her richly crafted characters. I want to tell you so much more, but to do so would give the story away and you already know how I feel about spoilers! If it weren’t for this pandemic, I’d love to hop on a plane and head to Barbados right now. I could see the country so vividly and the story that Susan begins to tell the reader is an incredible one of family, friendship, political ties, greed and murder. I could not get enough of Susan’s and Lia’s stories and how they mirrored one another and yet were different. This story will stick with me like my all-time favorite by Sue Monk Kidd’s Secret Life of Bees. Oh my, what a wonderful read! This story just puts me in a good mood!
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February 5, 2021
The warm air blew the loose strands of hair around her face as she burrowed her feet into the soft sand. The ocean waves crashed in front of her as the sun warmed her skin. Each break of the foamy water was like a memory coming out of nowhere and crashing the forefront of her mind. Life hadn’t taken the turns she expected, leaving a path of wreckage in her wake and now that she’s back home she feels the weight of those flashbacks hitting her full force.
The Girl with the Hazel Eyes had similarities to The Seven Husbands Evelyn Hugo. A young girl, Lia, is called to write the biography of an author who had vanished after releasing a best-selling novel that upended her home of Barbados when she exposed some major secrets. Now that she’s ready to share her story, Lia is excited for the opportunity.
I will say that I loved what the author was trying to do and the story she was trying to share. I think with some adjustments this book could be really beautiful. Also, Callie’s writing style is something that catches my eye and can see it being used very powerfully in the future.
That being said, this book had great promise, but the writing was very rough for me. Choppy and rushed in some sections and drawn out and lagging in other sections. Dialogue was also a little unnatural in spots.
I also wish Lia’s character development would have been more prominent because it was very hard to connect with her.
It is mentioned that the author originally intended this book as a short story submission and that is definitely noticed.
I think with further practice that any future books by this author can be really special.
Overall, an author to definitely keep an eye on in the future!
TW: Attempted Rape, Victim Shaming, Mental Illness, Death of a Parent, Suicide, Gambling.
The Girl with the Hazel Eyes had similarities to The Seven Husbands Evelyn Hugo. A young girl, Lia, is called to write the biography of an author who had vanished after releasing a best-selling novel that upended her home of Barbados when she exposed some major secrets. Now that she’s ready to share her story, Lia is excited for the opportunity.
I will say that I loved what the author was trying to do and the story she was trying to share. I think with some adjustments this book could be really beautiful. Also, Callie’s writing style is something that catches my eye and can see it being used very powerfully in the future.
That being said, this book had great promise, but the writing was very rough for me. Choppy and rushed in some sections and drawn out and lagging in other sections. Dialogue was also a little unnatural in spots.
I also wish Lia’s character development would have been more prominent because it was very hard to connect with her.
It is mentioned that the author originally intended this book as a short story submission and that is definitely noticed.
I think with further practice that any future books by this author can be really special.
Overall, an author to definitely keep an eye on in the future!
TW: Attempted Rape, Victim Shaming, Mental Illness, Death of a Parent, Suicide, Gambling.
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