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The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap – Historical fiction relevant to today
By Carol / January 7, 2013 /
As a reader and now writer of historical fiction, I’m always interested when an author tells a story that not only realistically captures an interesting place and time but also carries a story with themes so relevant to today. Paulette Mahurin does both in The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap.
Set in the 1880s, The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap tells the story of a lesbian couple living on a Nevada ranch when Britain changes its laws to make homosexual sex a criminal act. The news of Oscar Wilde‘s imprisonment burns up the telegraph wires and throws the Nevada town into turmoil.
Though they’ve lived their lives quietly and carefully, Mildred Dunlap and her partner fear the news will focus attention, suspicion and perhaps worse on them. They take extensive measures to appear “normal,” including Mildred’s plan to show interest in a widower who, she is certain, will not be interested in her. A viper-tongued town gossip makes everyone else’s business her business, goading others to interfere with consequences that are tragic, but not for those she hoped to bring down. The couple finds friendship and support from unexpected sources.
Mahurin tells a story of hatred and prejudice that shows how love and friendship can heal. The end is surprising and a trifle troubling. Without giving anything away (I hope), we find that even the people who have been most open minded throughout the novel can have their own prejudices and are willing to act on them. Perhaps like all of us?
Mahurin adds quotes from Oscar Wilde throughout the book, which adds an interesting and unexpected commentary on the action.
I found the characters will drawn, the story well conceived and executed, and the result thought provoking. Well worth the read.
I interviewed Mahurin in October 2012.
Thanks for the review. I’d heard about this book and expressed interest in reading it. From what you write, it sounds like an insightful read and account of prejudice and bigotry, with an important message. Your comment/question on how even the most open-minded of people can have prejudices is so very true, but I’ve found the opposite is also true. Even the most close-minded people may, on occasion, be surprisingly liberal or accepting especially as regards a family member who is gay.
So true, Penelope. In my experience once you know someone personally, it’s much harder to maintain the close-minded position. Thanks for commenting.
Thank you for taking the time to read and review my book. I’m grateful for this.
You’re welcome, Paulette. I hope all is going well for you and the rescue dogs!
Sounds like an interesting read. Thanks Carol
It is, David. I noticed the Black and Tans came up during Downton Abbey last night. Your book Tan has reached the top of my TBR list.
Carol … I loved the thoughtful review on a timely but difficult topic. It is definitely on my “TBR” list, and surprisingly near the top!
Thanks, Mary. I felt Mahurin handled the topic with honesty and creativity. I think you’d find it worth your time to read.
It’s definitely one of those books that will start conversations and make people squirm. Great review! I love how you hint about the surprise.
Lots to talk about with this book, for sure. I have to say I didn’t see the end coming. Thanks for commenting!