Just finished The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson, and holy fricking cow was it amazing. Has anyone else read it? Attached is my review!
"She had married well. He had married a malfunction."
4.5 Stars
Initial Thoughts ~~
I don't think any book has made me feel as physically enraged and heartbroken as this one has. I will admit that I was truly unaware of how differently the African American community looked at each other due to the tone of their skin, or whether they had a wealthy upbringing or a poor one. This book also opened my eyes to the horrible treatment of young girls who found themselves in sticky situations. A truly heart wrenching and powerful story that comes full circle at the end.
Plot ~~
There are two separate, yet intertwined plots in this story. This highlights the differences between different social classes, while still showing similarities between the main characters. There were some obvious predictions I could make, but still parts that I didn't see panning out the way that they did.
Characters ~~
A very diverse cast. Characters that were made to be loved, made to hurt for, cry for. And characters made to hate and want to destroy. (Rose Pride and Mother Margaret – I'm talking about you). I am still trying to determine if I'm ready to forgive someone after they're little redemption arc started.
World/Setting ~~
Taking place in both Philadelphia and D.C. during the 1950's, we are able to explore two worlds at once. We see a good depiction of the close proximity that African American's and Jewish whites live in Philly. And we are able to explore both the climate of Howard university and the affluent neighborhood of the Elite people of color.
Pacing ~~
This was a medium paced book, which allowed the story to be told with enough detail to create clear points, but not overbear us with information.
Trigger Warnings ~~
Racism, miscarriage, abandonment
by CharAdelle