Reviewed by Kelly on
As morbid as it sounds, I'm fascinated by cults. Those who pack up their lives and families and move into commune conditions to follow what is culturally seen as a socially unacceptable way of life without interference. Alberton is a fictional storyline that echos within these communities all over the world. It follows the story of Minnow, now one of nineteen children her own father has produced and has lived within the community for twelve years before that fateful night it all came crashing down. Minnow's story is told from the Missoula County Juvenile Detention Center, where she has been sentenced to six years for the brutal assault of a man mistaken for someone else. She's scared, but her quiet resolve draws cellmate Angel to her defense, the two girls finding a kindred spirit and shared experience between them both. As Minnow's crime was committed under duress, authorities are willing to strike a deal for her release upon her eighteenth birthday, in exchange for her story.
The result is an eerie and beautifully written story of hope, determination and a question of faith. I absolutely adored Minnow who proves that a strong protagonist doesn't need to show a force of strength, but her quiet style of defiance was inspiring and takes readers on her journey of self discovery and acceptance. Through her meetings with forensic psychologist Doctor Wilson, Minnow's story is nothing short of horrific. Readers are confronted with her emotionless removal from her ordeal, from the Prophet law community members abide by, to the misogyny towards women and expected Polygamy of men taking multiple wives. Taking wives that are also underage. But none more so than Minnow having her hands removed. It was distressing to say the least.
Throughout her poignant story, hope lies in the hands of Jude, a boy who knows abuse at the hands of a loved one and their blossoming romance becomes an anchor for Minnow's respite from the Community, if only for a brief moment. Jude isn't her hero, nor does he rescue her from the captive environment but rather provides Minnow with the confidence and tools to inspire her to save herself. He isn't necessarily a love interest, but a representation of another world that is waiting for her.
It's hard to fathom that this is a debut novel. A psychological, yet poignant storyline that readers can completely immerse themselves in. Said to be a retelling of The Handless Maiden, The Sacred Lies of Minnow Bly is confident, beautifully written and forward thinking young adult release that will endear readers to Minnow's plight. The storyline builds in layers, revealing more of Minnow's world as she shares pieces of her story, ending in a crescendo that will leave you feeling a sense of justice and fulfillment. Absolutely remarkable.
Reading updates
- Started reading
- 4 June, 2015: Finished reading
- 4 June, 2015: Reviewed