African American Lives: 2 Historical Fiction Novels

Book One in the New Harmony Series

New Harmony is the first of a three-part series.

Margaret Butler’s story is the nightmare every mother dreads—the death of her child. As a deeply spiritual woman born in 1905, her story also reflects the laments of former slaves and their descendants because her son’s murder, as well as the truth of who killed him, is wrapped up in the paternalism and racism of the South, reflected in the lives of Ophelia and Hollis Demmings, occupants of the Big House. Their two children, Candy and Floyd Demmings, as well as the objects of their affection, become collateral elements that contribute to Thad Butler’s murder and the eventual murder of Hollis Demmings. After recounting Thad’s funeral in the first chapter, Margaret’s story begins as a ten-year-old who fervently wishes to be schooled.

The remainder of Part One follows the contours of Margaret’s life, from the innocence of her childhood to the death of her son. Framed by the 1949 funeral of her 16-year-old son, Part One builds the intricate web of decisions and behaviors that become the rationalizations for murder. Part Two recounts what unfolds after her son’s death, continuing until we discover the reasons for his murder and the culprits’ identity. Yet, the ending still offers some unexpected twists.

New Harmony’s prose is lyrical and immersive, grounded in emotional precision with a tone reminiscent of the oral tradition.

5 Stars

Very rich with an amazing representation of African American dialect and family life. Some demons, such as domestic violence, are not just unique to white folks, but most of the injustices and violence we read about in this volume will come from them. Many scenes will make us sad and mad, including Margaret's son's assassination, which is a big event closer to the third part of this first volume, but it's one among many others worth noting.

The author focused on the female characters and their emotions and reactions.

Margaret's mom giving birth and Margaret's being forced into adulthood are very powerful. The author was careful to include more than just Margaret's emotions, good or bad, and we get insight into the lives of those who live around Margaret as well. What happens is not just to Margaret, but it's what is happening to many colored families. Crimes that see no justice.

From Margater's childhood to motherhood and loss, from innocence to standing up for their children, making New Harmory a powerful read.

Tilda is my second favorite character after the MC. She is the first girl born, and she will have a lot of trials to pass, but she ends up with her white husband (meaning leaving America to find safety).

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Brimming with unpredictable twists and scandals, the latest Depression-era Alabama novel from award-winning, New York Times bestselling author Mary Monroe tells of a mistreated wife who finally finds the love she’s longed for—only to be plunged into deceit, betrayal, and murder . . .

As a young woman, Naomi Simmons grabbed her one chance to escape the overwhelming demands of her selfish family by marrying devout older man Jacob Purcell. But it only landed her with a controlling, unfaithful husband who delights in hurling insults at her and their troubled now-teenage daughter, Ethel Mae. So, Naomi is amazed and touched when Homer Clark sees her for the vibrant, intelligent woman she truly is. Believing the handsome, widower is her love of a lifetime, Naomi plans to leave with Homer and start anew.

Then Jacob suffers a debilitating stroke, and Naomi can’t bring herself to abandon him. Unfortunately, Homer refuses to listen—or understand.  Relieved when he leaves town and disappears, Naomi dedicates herself to the now-grateful Jacob’s care. And she feels truly delighted and blessed when Ethel Mae finally gets her life on track away from home—and comes back with good news . . .

But Ethel Mae’s surprise will shock Naomi to her core and threaten everything and everyone she holds most precious. With no one who can help her, Naomi battles increasingly insidious mind games even as her world starts falling apart. Can she defeat what appears to be a twisted scheme against her?  Or will she be forced into a devastating showdown that will leave no one undamaged—or standing?

5 Stars

I enjoyed this one a lot. Naomi is a great character and voice (narrator) we get hints of the time, starting in 1918, in her teens. She is loyal, and the guilt keeps her beside such an abusive husband. Her relationship with Homer doesn't go well either, and she has no control over her daughter, who has more grit and does whatever she wants. I didn't expect the end. It was a cool twist.