A book review of The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson. The best selling author of Yellow Wife delivers a griping, powerful, enlightening tale that is bound to touch our hearts. Perfect for book clubs and fans of historical and women fiction.
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The One of Love and Strength!
This post is my personal, honest review of The House of Eve!
The House of Eve
A Novel by Sadeqa Johnson
I am so excited about our book club pick this month. Sadeqa Johnson is one of my favorite authors. She is brilliant with historical fiction, so I was not about to pass on the opportunity to read her latest novel The House of Eve. Set in the 1950s this is a story about two corageous women, whose lives converge in the most unexpected, their striving for a better life and the sacrifices they must make to achieve it. So whether you are a member of our online IVI’S READS BOOK CLUB or looking for your the next favorite read, I am excited to review our official July book club pick – THE HOUSE OF EVE by Sadeqa Johnson.
Book Synopsis & Details
– from the publisher
“A triumph of historical fiction” (The Washington Post), an instant New York Times bestseller, and a Reese’s Book Club pick, set in 1950s Philadelphia and Washington, DC, that explores what it means to be a woman and a mother, and how much one is willing to sacrifice to achieve her greatest goal.
1950s Philadelphia: fifteen-year-old Ruby Pearsall is on track to becoming the first in her family to attend college. But a taboo love affair threatens to pull her back down into the poverty and desperation that has been passed on to her like a birthright.
Eleanor Quarles arrives in Washington, DC, with ambition and secrets. When she meets the handsome William Pride at Howard University, they fall madly in love. But William hails from one of DC’s elite wealthy Black families, and his parents don’t let just anyone into their fold. Eleanor hopes that a baby will make her finally feel at home in William’s family and grant her the life she’s been searching for. But having a baby—and fitting in—is easier said than done.
With their stories colliding in the most unexpected of ways, Ruby and Eleanor will both make decisions that shape the trajectory of their lives.
READ MORE HERE…
Book Details:
Title: The House of Eve
Author: Sadeqa Johnson
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Print Length: 384 pages
Publication Date: February 7, 2023
Genres: Historical Fiction, Women’s Fiction
Where to Buy: Amazon; Bookshop; Barnes & Noble
THE HOUSE OF EVE
BOOK REVIEW
In THE HOUSE OF EVE Sadeqa Johnson tackles very important and difficult themes and she does so with skill and exemplary storytelling. We follow the journey of two remarkable women as they navigate their challenging circumstances. With multiple points of view we get to catch a glimpse of the emotional and physical state of the leading characters. We are with them through every struggle, decision and emotional turmoil.
Both Ruby and Eleanor have goals and dreams they are determined to achieve. Set in the 1950s the story covers a time of American history when prejudice and discrimination were the norm, even within people of the same race. Although this is historical fiction the themes addressed are timely and relevant. Furthermore, this compelling and powerful read addresses motherhood in most if not all of its stages.
“Stay poor like the rest of us, or climb, scratch and claw like hell to get out.”
― Sadeqa Johnson, The House of Eve
I loved the stories of both girls. The vivid writing, sweet romance, family stories and secrets make this gripping story a must read. The House of Eve is a page turner that is meticulously researched and beautifully written. While it highlights parts of American history some would much rather leep hidden, Sadeqa Jonson breaks down the walls and opens the issues up for discussion.
The House of Eve is ripe with potential discussions so book clubs will love it. Historical fiction, women fiction and romance readers will love the story, its setting and characters. It is by no means a ligh or easy read, but it is a story that addresses issues that must be discussed. Furthermore, this is a thought provoking novel that empowers, inspires and uplifts readers. Highly recommend.
About the Author and What to Read Next
Sadeqa Johnson is the award-winning author of four novels. Her accolades include being the recipient of the National Book Club Award, the Phillis Wheatley Award and the USA Best Book Award for best fiction. She is a Kimbilo Fellow and a Tall Poppy Writer. Originally from Philadelphia, she currently lives near Richmond, Virginia, with her husband and three children. To learn more, visit www.sadeqajohnson.net.
Book Recomendations for Fans of
The House of Eve
If you loved The House of Eve you should check out these other titles by award winning author Sadeqa Johnson.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Every once in awhile a story is told that makes you take a pause and simply say WOW. Such is The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson. I do love history and always took the time to read above and beyond my required studies both in high school and at college, but when a topic emerges that is a such a revelation that leaves me speechless. If you love history this book is a must. While it is by no means a light read, I find that it is a fantastic women’s fiction choice for book clubs.
The House of Eve is a gripping tale about strength, sacrifice, love and motherhood. A real page turner, if I ever read one, with excellent pacing, characters you grow to love and root for, and a powerful, satisfying ending. The book gave me all the feels and I strongly recomend it.
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