Description
By Erica Colahan
Philadelphia, 1897—On the shores of the Delaware River, Italian Catholic Mary Paragano dreams of a happily ever after. However, when she defies her family and runs away to marry Jakob, a Jewish boy, her fairy tale takes an unexpected turn. Disowned by her father, abandoned by Jakob, and pursued by a jealous gangster, Mary’s life spirals into tragedy, culminating in accusations of attempting to harm her own children and a harrowing end in an asylum.
Philadelphia, present-day—Bella, Mary’s great-great-granddaughter, grapples with the aftermath of her recent divorce. Amidst her pain, a mysterious stranger named Sophie enters her life, claiming to be related to Jakob, the man who left Mary to her devastating fate over a century ago. Together, Bella and Sophie unravel the layers of Mary’s haunting past, question the stories they’ve been told, and uncover the impact of these historical secrets on their modern-day lives. Based on the remarkable true story of the author’s great-great-grandmother, The Oystercatcher of Southwark takes readers on a poignant journey through the immigrant neighborhoods of South Philadelphia. This deftly-woven novel explores the profound love of a mother for her children and the redemptive hope that transcends time.
Barb Szyszkiewicz (verified owner) –
This split-time novel tells the story of Mary, a young first-generation Italian-American woman living in South Philly and working at a sweatshop while she helps her father manage the grocery store for which he’s beholden to mob boss Rocco. Mary has captured the hearts of three men: the brutish Rocco, who insists Mary’s father “owes him” and must let him marry her; Cenzo the kindly fishmonger; and Jakob, a young Jewish man who becomes embroiled in shady business deals after Mary becomes pregnant and they elope and set up housekeeping in Newark, NJ. The present-day story line follows Bella, who’s brokenhearted after a recent divorce and shocked to learn that some of her ancestors were Jewish: this story had never been told to the younger generations. Together, Bella and a newfound older cousin piece together the story of Mary’s eventual return to Philadelphia with her children.
It’s lovely to read historical novels when the scene is set so well. As I read, I felt like I could very well have been walking those streets of South Philly where this novel takes place. Erica Colahan has taken the true story of her own great-great-grandmother and brought the people as well as the place to life. The novel explores the life of a young mother and tells how she, driven to desperation, seeks to protect her children from all harm.
I can’t wait to read this novel a second time!
Teresa Whiting –
I was hooked on this novel from the moment I picked it up until I read the last word! I loved the variety of characters and the unpredictable storyline. What captured me most is that this novel was based on the author’s ancestors, and many of the facts were true. As a second-generation American descended from Italian immigrants, I feel a kinship with Erica Colahan and the family she portrays. It’s hard to believe this is her first novel, and I hope it’s the first of many!!
Elizabeth (verified owner) –
“The Oystercatcher of Southwark” is primed to be the book of the summer. Debut author Erica Colahan weaves a beautiful story of family, love, sacrifice, and hope. Her writing is cinematic as she guides the reader into the harrowing yet hopeful story of Mary Paragano.
Alyssa Schwarz –
The Oystercatcher of Southwark is a beautiful story where unimaginable struggles, faith, and ultimately redemption weave together into a narrative that’s both heartbreaking and inspiring. Colahan’s unique voice shines through this debut dual-time novel that will enthrall readers from beginning to end.
I received a complimentary copy of the book and this is my honest review.
Margaret Nelson –
This is a fascinating book based on the life of the author’s great-great grandmother Mary. It’s not an easy book to read due to the challenges Mary went through in her life, but it’s worth reading. The dual timelines of the 1890s and the present day are handled well, and it’s amazing to find out which parts of the story what actually happened. I kept reading because I needed to find out how things turned out. Overall there is hope and redemption.
I received a complimentary copy this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Joanne Sher –
An engaging, sweeping dual timeline story based on actual events in the author’s family history, this story, though a bit slow at times, kept my interest. I found the historical timeline more engaging than the present day, but the pieces did tie together well. Mary’s character, especially, was well-developed.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Lynette Allcock –
This novel really kept me engrossed until the end. The characters are complex and sympathetic, and although some scenes felt a little rushed, the story carried me along as I was rooting for the characters, aching for their pain, and appreciating the hints of hope and forgiveness. I enjoyed it all the more for being based on a true story, and I was fascinated by the author’s notes about the real family history. If you’re looking for something compelling, inspiring, yet easy to read (a perfect summer combination imo), pick this one up!
Note: I received a complimentary copy this book from the publishers as part of the launch team. I was not required to provide a positive review, so this opinion is totally my own.
Katie Slocum –
Trigger Warning: Suicide
The title of this book caught my attention as something different, and I am glad I decided to review it. Much of it was close to my own family stories of immigration and life in a big American city, making it all strike very true for me. Tragedy and triumph mesh in this tale of the American dream not being everything hoped for.
I write a lot of reviews for Christian fiction, but keep in mind the main character in this one is Catholic. I knew that going in, and it does not detract from the narrative at all. Rather it makes sense that immigrants from Italy at the turn of the last century would be Catholic. It is a wonderfully redemptive story with a realistic ending – not all happily-ever-afters, but the characters can see in hindsight how God orchestrated things despite poor choices. That is something I can relate to.
As an avid bird lover, I loved seeing the bird theme from the cover to the very end, and I learned about some birds I had never heard of before. I also loved the detailed explanation from the author to separate fact from fiction and that a large part of the book was a true account of her family. Mary’s journey is a sad one, and I have been unable to get her out of my head. This is a fantastic premier novel from this author and I look forward to reading more from her in the future.
*I received a complimentary copy of this e-book courtesy of Chrism Press. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Jeanette Durkin –
This book blew me away! The author’s writing is phenomenal. The dual timeline kept me in suspense as I wondered what was going to happen next. It’s a heartbreaking story of forbidden love, broken families, and sacrifice. It’s also about redemption, the power of friendship and healing.
Mary intrigued me from the beginning. Her father’s love for her is apparent. She’s an old soul, an artist, curious. When her path crosses with Jakob, her entire life changes. She loves him and fears him. Soon, her life changes, and she faces new challenges. I love Mrs. Oliver! Her personality is authentic. She’s hospitable, compassionate, and giving. She is independent and a good provider.
The epilogue is my favorite part of the book. When Mollie opened her present, my heart rejoiced! Side note: I recommend reading the author’s note. It offers insight into the background of this amazing story.
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Chrism Press. All thoughts and opinions are my own.