Kristina
The House Girl is the historical fiction debut by Tara Conklin, a captivating story of love, history, and a search for justice. It is set in modern-day New York and 1852 Virginia, and follows two remarkable women, separated by more than a century, whose lives unexpectedly intertwine.
The story begins in present-day New York, where we meet Josephine, a young lawyer who is tasked with a unique assignment. She is to locate a descendant of a house slave who was once owned by a prominent Virginia family. If successful, the descendant could be eligible for a large settlement from a class-action lawsuit against the family.
Josephine’s search leads her to Lina Sparrow, a talented artist living in New York. Lina is a descendant of the house slave, and Josephine soon discovers that her ancestor’s story is much more complex than she initially thought.
The story then shifts to 1852 Virginia, where we meet the house slave, a young girl named Lu Anne Bell. We learn of her life on the plantation, and of her relationship with the family’s daughter, Charlotte. Despite their differences in status, the two girls form a strong bond, and Charlotte helps Lu Anne to escape the plantation.
As Josephine and Lina uncover the truth about Lu Anne’s past, they also discover a hidden history of injustice and oppression. The novel explores the themes of race, class, and identity, and the impact of the past on the present.
The House Girl is a powerful and moving story of two women, separated by time and circumstance, who are united by their search for justice. It is a story of courage and resilience, and of the power of friendship and love.
The novel is beautifully written, and Conklin’s vivid descriptions bring the characters and settings to life. The House Girl is an unforgettable story that will stay with readers long after they have finished the last page.
Tara Conklin’s The House Girl is a compelling story of love, history, and justice. It is a powerful exploration of race, class, and identity, and a reminder of the importance of remembering the past. The novel is an emotional and thought-provoking read, and one that will stay with readers for a long time.
