First I have to state, I received this novel free from the author with the understanding I would give an honest review. Although this isn’t my normal genre, I did read this novel in it’s entirety. I found this book to be long and drawn out at times, although there were times as I read where I needed to know what was going to happen with poor Mildred. For me this wasn’t a page turner so to speak, but I’m certain a reader that likes this genre would find it captivating. The characters were true to life and I have to admit I did want to rip out Josie’s tongue at times.
This story takes place in a small Nevada town in the year 1895. The entire premise of the novel is gay rights. Oscar Wilde was convicted and set to prison after being caught in the act with another man sending the world into a tizzy. When the news of his arrest makes it to the small town of Red Cedar Pass (small town in Nevada) the town gossips have all they can do to contain themselves.
Mildred Dunlap is a rather large, homely woman whose wealth and kindness has helped many citizens within the town. She has always been the victim of Josie’s hatred and in turn the one who’s the victim of the town’s gossiping females (Josie’s friends). Mildred, in an attempt to hide the fact that she’s gay. fabricates an elaborate scheme to befriend the recently widowed Charley and force tongues to wag.
As the story unfolds the reader is taken on a ride of gossip and the devastation that simple words can cause. Friendships are put to the test and a life is lost all due to Josie’s peer pressure and her need to destroy Mildred.
Ms. Mahurin brings you into the lives and times of her novel and shows you all to well how the tongue is more destructive than any weapon. In the world of Mildred Dunlap, the reader sees just how hurtful gossip can be.
I’m giving this four stars for the writing alone. As stated above this is not my normal genre and found it just didn’t retain my interest.
The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap 