Many of the white people find it difficult to accept the fact the former slaves now have a voice and aren't afraid to use it. Those that weren't born into a life of slavery view the ex-slaves as different to themselves, there is even a hierarchy amongst the slaves. However they do agree on their common enemy. Those that hate all of them, because of the colour of their skin.
There are also the beginnings of the structure of organised disruption and attacks on blacks and white sympathizers. White men banding together to commit murder, arson and torture.
The story wanders from the future into the past and the atmosphere above. Mariah's tale is slowly woven one, but certainly one worth staying with until the end. The loss of her son determines the rest of her life. His death is the catalyst to the entire events that unfold.
Hicks hits upon so many important issues during that era, but they never overshadow the actual main plot. From Mariah's strange bond between herself and her former owner, and her quest for answers, which isn't about vengeance, although Tole mistakenly thinks it is.
I could go on for quite a while about this book, it is a good read, and I just have to add that the author's note was an interesting conclusion to the read. I really enjoyed the way the author kept a comfortable pace and took his time to let the characters grow, feel and explore within the narrative.
Buy The Orphan Mother at Amazon Uk or go to Goodreads for any other retailer.
P.S: I adore the cover!
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