**Art & Grace**
Rating: ★★★★☆
In “Art & Grace,” set in Bristol, England in the early Nineteenth Century, author weaves a compelling story around the complexities of race and class in a society grappling with the aftermath of the abolition of the slave trade.
The novel follows Bess, a young woman of mixed heritage, navigating the ambiguous social hierarchy within the Liston family. Raised alongside the family’s children, Richard and Artemisia, she finds herself in a precarious position as she grapples with her identity and the limitations imposed by society.
The strength of “Art & Grace” lies in its nuanced exploration of relationships, power dynamics, and the lingering effects of slavery on individuals and families. The characters are well-developed and the historical setting is vividly portrayed, immersing readers in a world where privilege and prejudice intersect in complex ways.
Readers drawn to historical fiction that delves into themes of identity, social justice, and resilience will find “Art & Grace” a compelling and thought-provoking read. It challenges readers to examine their own assumptions and consider the ongoing impact of historical injustices on contemporary society.
Take the initiative to pick up a copy of “Art & Grace” and immerse yourself in a powerful narrative that resonates with relevance today.