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The Sleeping Night

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"The Sleeping Night" by Ruth Wind (Barbara Samuel) is a historical romance novel set in Jim Crow Texas post WW2, exploring the forbidden love between Angel, a white woman, and Isaiah, a black man. The author delves into the harsh realities of racism and sexism during that period, portraying the challenges faced by the couple as they navigate through a society filled with prejudice and danger. Through letters exchanged during the war, the book sheds light on the impact of WWII on both the European front and the American home front, highlighting the struggles of soldiers and their loved ones.

The novel beautifully captures the evolving relationship between Angel and Isaiah, showcasing their enduring love amidst adversity, including racial tensions, violence, and societal expectations. With a blend of historical accuracy and poignant storytelling, the book immerses readers in a time of turmoil and discrimination, offering a glimpse into a dark chapter of American history while celebrating the power of love to triumph over obstacles.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with Angel showcasing strength and love, while Isaiah embodies the struggles imposed by societal norms.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by vivid descriptions and the use of letters, effectively immersing readers into the emotional and historical landscape.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative revolves around an interracial love story that unfolds in the 1940s, dealing with significant social challenges and celebrating personal growth amidst adversity.

Setting:

The setting is a crucial element, capturing the social climate of rural Texas during the 1940s, highlighting racial tensions and historical significance.

Pacing:

The pacing is gradual at first but accelerates with rising tension, enhancing emotional engagement throughout the narrative.

Notes:

The book revolves around a powerful interracial love story set in 1940s Texas.
It highlights racial tensions and societal issues during the Jim Crow era.
Characters Angel and Isaiah, childhood friends, navigate forbidden love amid societal backlash.
The narrative weaves in historical context, including post-WWII experiences and racial discrimination.
Letters exchanged between Angel and Isaiah during the war provide depth to their relationship.
The story begins in 2005 at a bookstore but flashes back to 1926 and 1946, intertwining timelines.
The author explores themes of love, loss, and resilience in a challenging historical backdrop.
It includes real historical elements like racial violence and the impact of the war on returning soldiers.
The book's emotional journey transitions from despair to hope, showcasing personal growth and societal change.
Readers noted the emotional weight of the story, which makes it memorable compared to typical romances.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

There are notable triggers/content warnings including themes of racism, violence, attempted rape, and historical depictions of societal injustices.

Has Romance?

The romance is a central focus of the narrative, characterized by passion, tension, and emotional depth.

From The Publisher:

A triumphant tale of forbidden love that will delight Barbara Samuel's many romance fans while tackling the serious issue of racism in our not-so-distant past.

An unforgettable romance in an unforgiving time.

They'll need love and courage to see the dawn.

He's a hometown native, returning from the war, determined to change the world he'd fought to protect. She's the girl who's been his secret friend since childhood, now a beautiful woman.

Her war-time letters kept him alive. But he's black, and she's white.In 1946 in Gideon, Texas, their undeniable love might get them both killed. Barbara Samuel is a multiple award-winning author with more than 38 books to her credit in a variety of genres. Her work has captured a plethora of awards, including six RITAs; the Colorado Center for the Book Award (twice); Favorite Book of the Year from Romance Writers of America, and the Library Journal's list of Best Genre Fiction of the year, among many others.

 
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