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A review by librosycafe25
The Secret Keeper of Main Street by Trisha R. Thomas
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
1954, in a small town in Oklahoma, a Black dressmaker, Bailey, has the gift of second sight. Brides have whispered that she can see if their fiancé is their true love. Her aunt warns her to "stay out of white folks' business," but against her better judgment she tells her friend, Elsa, her future, and it's not pretty.
Elsa, daughter of a wealthy oilman in Oklahoma, arrives at Regal Gown as the least joyful bride Bailey has seen. With her big society wedding approaching, Bailey’s intuition is horrified when she touches Elsa’s hand, prompting her to help. However, when a prominent family’s son is found dead before the wedding and Elsa is arrested for murder, secrets, scandals, racism, and classism unfold in this story.
The setting and the characterization of the main character, her friend, her aunt, and the romantic interest were compelling, adding depth to the story. However, the pacing felt uneven due to the frequent flashbacks. Also, a few situations appeared misplaced, affecting the overall coherence. The denouement left much to be desired, feeling rushed and failing to deliver the emotional payoff that the buildup around the murder had promised. But overall, it's a good read for those who love historical fiction.
Elsa, daughter of a wealthy oilman in Oklahoma, arrives at Regal Gown as the least joyful bride Bailey has seen. With her big society wedding approaching, Bailey’s intuition is horrified when she touches Elsa’s hand, prompting her to help. However, when a prominent family’s son is found dead before the wedding and Elsa is arrested for murder, secrets, scandals, racism, and classism unfold in this story.
The setting and the characterization of the main character, her friend, her aunt, and the romantic interest were compelling, adding depth to the story. However, the pacing felt uneven due to the frequent flashbacks. Also, a few situations appeared misplaced, affecting the overall coherence. The denouement left much to be desired, feeling rushed and failing to deliver the emotional payoff that the buildup around the murder had promised. But overall, it's a good read for those who love historical fiction.
Moderate: Sexual assault