5 out of 5 stars
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Janet Levine's Liv's Secret is a captivating and well-written novel that tells the story of a South African Jewish family through the eyes of its matriarch, Liv. The book takes the reader on a journey through time, exploring the secrets and mysteries of Liv's ancestors, while also delving into Liv's personal life and relationships.
The novel explores the themes of family, secrets, love, loss, and identity, and does so in a way that is both poignant and heart-wrenching. Liv is a compelling and complex character, and the reader is drawn into her world as she recounts the stories of her ancestors and grapples with her own conflicting feelings and relationships.
One of the central relationships in the book is Liv's connection with Rosemary, an old schoolmate with whom she shares a kiss. The way in which Levine portrays Liv's conflicting emotions and desires is both powerful and realistic. Similarly, Liv's relationship with Daniel, with whom she works as an African activist, is a cathartic reminder of the complexities of race and privilege in South Africa.
The book also delves into the secrets and mysteries of Liv's family history, particularly those surrounding Helmut and the circumstances surrounding the death of his first wife during childbirth. As the book progresses, more family secrets are revealed, and the reader is taken on a journey through the joys and tragedies of Liv's family history. The way in which Levine gradually reveals the secrets and complexities of Liv's family past is skillful and well-executed.
The characters are well-developed and believable, and the historical setting is vividly portrayed. One of the strengths of Liv's Secrets is its attention to detail and its evocative portrayal of South African life during the apartheid era. The book paints a vivid picture of the racial and political tensions of the time, and Levine's writing is both beautiful and haunting. The characters are complex and well-drawn, and the reader is drawn into their stories and struggles.
While the novel is a powerful and engaging read, some readers might be put off by the portrayal of homosexual and incestuous relationships. These elements, although central to the plot, might make the book uncomfortable for some readers. However, Levine handles these sensitive topics with sensitivity and nuance, and they serve to further underscore the book's themes of secrecy and identity.
In conclusion, Liv's Secrets is a beautifully written and emotionally charged novel that explores the complexities of family history, identity, and sexuality. While the portrayal of homosexual and incestuous relationships might be excessive for some readers, the book is a thought-provoking and moving read that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with their own identity and relationships. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars because I found only minor errors, indicating that it was professionally edited. Adults who enjoy historical fiction should read it.
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Liv's Secrets
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