Review of Deceptive Calm

[Mary John 10]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Deceptive Calm" by Patricia Skipper.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Deceptive Calm by Patricia Skipper was written in the 1960s, during a time when racism was still prevalent. It tells the story from the point of view of Vanessa Condon, an African American woman who later becomes Vanessa Vaughn after adopting the name of a deceased white baby. Vanessa grew up in a Catholic orphanage in Charleston, which was run by Sister Rosalie, a “formidable” woman well-educated in American history. The story is told through the perspectives of Trisha Bibbs, Vanessa’s best friend, and Barry Hale, Vanessa’s high school sweetheart. The narrative revolves around love and hatred, death and birth, success and failure, betrayal, lust, marital abuse, and wealth. After the death of her “mother,” Sister Rosalie, Vanessa moves to California under her adopted name to build a new life. Did she succeed in doing this?

The story was truly enjoyable. It felt more like a person’s biography than fiction because the author effectively conveyed the emotions of the characters without it feeling forced. There was sufficient information about each character's backstory. My favorite characters are Vanessa and Trisha. Together, they form a formidable duo. They have different personalities but seem to complement each other’s vibe. Tod is like every spoiled rich boy, and it was frustrating how he managed to cover up his bad behaviors throughout the time he and Vanessa dated. I wish she had kept in touch with Barry the entire time, but what’s the best way to forget your ex if not to cut him off? I also loved how hardworking Vanessa and Trisha were, breaking down the barriers of women not being allowed in high positions during that time.

This book is also an opportunity to learn about American history through Sister Rosalie, Vanessa, and Trisha. Sister Rosalie made it a point to teach the orphanage children every day, and anyone who cared to listen at any time. We’re not only learning about American history, but there’s also a bit of medical knowledge in the story. There’s nothing particularly to dislike about this novel, but I didn’t like how the author rushed the story toward the ending. I had questions, such as: How did Suzanne react? Were the sheriffs commended by their chief after the initial rebuke? Did Vanessa return to Charleston, South Carolina? I would have liked these questions answered in an epilogue. I only noticed one error, so I’d say it’s well edited. Despite the few things I observed, I still give this 5 out of 5 stars. The storyline was engaging.

I would recommend this to people who love historical fiction. If you don’t like books with explicit sexual content and many curse words, you might want to skip this. It was worth the read.

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Deceptive Calm
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[Diana Lowery]

I agree with you about the unanswered questions. I, too, felt like I needed to know more about what happened.

[Isaac Chiso]

”Deceptive Calm” by Patricia Skipper is a story of Vanessa Condon, a black woman who changes her identity to leave behind her past and face new love, betrayal, and racism in the 1960s America.

[Amy Luman]

I just finished reading this book and I didn’t enjoy it as much as you did. I do agree about the pace of the ending and the unanswered questions. It’s like the author ran out of things to say and she just stopped. I’m glad you liked it, though. Thanks!

[Heller Latoya]

I got some insight to the societal culture and values during the 19600s through this book. It is insightful.