Lauren is a wealthy college student who is trying to distance herself from her family's expectations. She takes a part time job from 83 year old Abigale Boyles, transcribing a journal written by Mercy Heyworth during the Salem Witch trials. The book alternates the two voices and opens up Lauren's eyes to how she sees the world and the assumptions and judgments she makes. Her preconceived notions are suddenly very clear and she experiences an epiphany that changes her life and her relationships. The history conveyed thru Mercy's diary is detailed and frightening. It's been a long time since I HAD to stay up to finish a book like I did with this one. The Shape of Mercy tells the story of Lauren, a privileged college student wanting to make a change. She decides to answer a job posting hanging on a bulletin board. She meets an older woman named Abigail, who wants her to transcribe the 300 year old diary of Mercy Hayworth. Mercy had been accused of being a witch during the Salem Witch trials. The tale goes back and forth from the current day with Lauren and Abigail to the writings of Mercy's diary. The story was very well written and touching.
I think I have found another favorite author! I highly recommend this book.
—Lee
Thoroughly enjoyed this.
—Nirvana
good, but a little weak.
—Elizabeth