The novel switches back and forth from a) parts from a published book, a “true story” written by Ewan Holt, and b) narration from Maggie Holt, his daughter, many years after it’s been published. Prologue, July 1 (From the Book) The Holt family, Ewan and Jess, has recently moved into Baneberry Hall in Bartleby. Their …
Part 1: Statue (Ardua Hall) An Aunt is writing a secret manuscript at a library at Ardua Hall. Outside, there’s a statue of her holding the hand of a Handmaid. Behind them is a Pearl Girl, ready to set out on missionary work. As she writes, she knows that she is uncovering old, buried skeletons …
Deacon King Kong by James McBride is not the type of book I ordinarily would have chosen for myself. If it hadn’t popped up on Oprah’s book club, I probably wouldn’t have given it much consideration. Of course, having read it, I’m really glad I did and I hope others give it a shot, too. …
Chapter 1: Jesus’s Cheese In September 1969 in South Brooklyn, 71-year-old Deacon Cuffy Jasper Lambkin, also known as “Sportcoat“, goes to the plaza of the Causeway Housing Projects (“the Cause”) and shoots Deems Clemens, a ruthless drug dealer, in the face. Sportcoat was a peaceful and beloved man, the coach of the projects basketball team …
The Guest List by Lucy Foley was released in February 2020, but was chosen as one of Reese’s Book Club Picks for June 2020 (there were two this month). It’s been a while since I’ve read a straight-up mystery-thriller, and I’m trying to switch back and forth when it comes to reading serious books vs …
