Set in Pittsburgh in the mid-90s, Mercury tells a multigenerational story of the Joseph family. Mick Joseph married his wife, Elise, shortly after returning from the Vietnam War. Without being directly labeled as post-war PTSD, Mick became eccentric in his hobbies and pursuits, only ever considering his own wants and needs. Elise gives everything to her husband and eventually her three sons but wishes for more for her sons and the next generation.
Marley, the daughter of a single mom trying to make ends meet, moves to Mercury as a teenager and soon is mixed in with the two older Jospeh boys. Elise never shows Marley affection and doesn’t learn why until it’s too late.
I loved this complex family drama. I find it fitting that I am writing this review on International Women’s Day, as the novel features three independent, strong women: Elise, Marley, and Jade. The Joseph men repeatedly think of themselves and have selfish actions. At the same time, the three women continue to do everything for their friends and family, sparking a change in expectations and mindset for the generation that will follow.
This story is beautifully written, and I’m glad I chose it for my January BOTM. It was a unique read with excellent character development. Although it is contemporary fiction, it has elements of mystery woven throughout.
Thank you, @netgalley and @celadon books for the ARC.
Marley, the daughter of a single mom trying to make ends meet, moves to Mercury as a teenager and soon is mixed in with the two older Jospeh boys. Elise never shows Marley affection and doesn’t learn why until it’s too late.
I loved this complex family drama. I find it fitting that I am writing this review on International Women’s Day, as the novel features three independent, strong women: Elise, Marley, and Jade. The Joseph men repeatedly think of themselves and have selfish actions. At the same time, the three women continue to do everything for their friends and family, sparking a change in expectations and mindset for the generation that will follow.
This story is beautifully written, and I’m glad I chose it for my January BOTM. It was a unique read with excellent character development. Although it is contemporary fiction, it has elements of mystery woven throughout.
Thank you, @netgalley and @celadon books for the ARC.