Big Lies in a Small Town by Diane Chamberlain open in
Edenton, North Carolina in March 1940 as three young children discover the body
of a man. Fast forward to a prison for women in the summer of 2018 where Morgan
Christopher is serving time is offered a chance for freedom. The late Jesse
Jameson Williams, a famous painter, has requested in his will that Morgan
restore a mural for the opening of his gallery in Edenton. Although she has
never restored a painting before, she jumps at the chance to get out of prison
and get a fresh start. With a firm deadline and so much riding on her finishing,
Morgan is unsure how to begin. Back to December 1939, where Anna Dale learns
she has been chosen to paint a mural for the Edenton Post Office from thousands
of applicants. Eager for a fresh start, Anna makes a trip to Edenton to start
the project. Told back and forth between 1939-1940 and the summer of 2018, the
story weaves a mystery of Anna’s mural and a connection to Morgan. How are
these two women connected? What is behind the mysterious images in the mural?
Can Morgan finish the mural in time? Can she find the fresh start she has been
hoping for?
I have read a couple of Ms. Chamberlain’s books before and
loved them, so when I had the chance to read Big Lies in a Small Town, I
jumped at it. And it did not disappoint. From the opening chapter to the final
scene, the story draws you in to a time and place of racism, innuendo and
danger. And to a mystery that the reader tries to piece together along with
Morgan. I enjoyed all the characters especially Morgan as she tries to make
amends for the mistakes of her past and move forward for her future. I also
enjoyed Anna and how she stands up for Jesse, who is a black teen, and sees not
his color but his amazing talent that would go to waste if it is not nurtured.
The attitudes of the townspeople toward their friendships were on point with
the time. There is so much more I wish I could say but it would ruin the twists
and turns this book will take you on. Big Lies in a Small Town is a
great book and I highly recommend it!
Big Lies in a
Small Town
is available in
hardcover, eBook and audiobook
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