Rating :★★★★

Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion. I was provided a copy of a finished book  from Lone Star Literary Life partner in exchange for my honest review.  The comments in this review do not reflect the views of the author or the publisher. The copies used in this review are finalized copies sent to me in exchange for my honest review.  #partner #LSBBT

The author begins this book with the main character David going for his usual walk in his small town during the early 1900s. This is during a time where segregation is still a prominent issue and black males are taught to protect themselves from white males. As the story unfolds, we watch as David’s biggest fear comes true. He has crossed paths with a white male who has his eyes set on demeaning David. Based during a time where being Black was considered a crime, David must decide whether to defend himself or take whatever is thrown at him. Realizing that both choices have great consequences.

The overall storyline focuses primarily on the main character and a series of events that follow one main event. David’s life takes many twists and turns throughout the novel until finally toward the end he comes to some sort of resting place. It really makes you think of a time in your life where you felt you were carrying shame and guilt from a past mistake. There is a bit of biblical based references in this book that tend to focus on forgiveness and letting go. The author allows you to take a step in the shoes of the main character as he works through his emotions and pushes past the shame and guilt he has been carrying his entire life. This all occurs until he comes to a resting place at the end of the novel where he is finally able to find peace and healing in self forgiveness.

The author works to try to capture the true essence of the language during the time period targeted in this book and the potential challenges faced by those of color. If you are interested in a pre-civil rights movement fictional read that focuses on fear and guilt, then this book is one you should pick up.