I found Springtime in Lawrence Park to be an incredibly dark satirical reflection on religion, and to an extent parenthood and family, displayed by sharing the life of the female main character Marie.
I’ll start by saying that I really think this book is written for readers who like their satirical fiction dark and gritty. I was uncomfortable at several points as I read, however if you are a fan of this darker writing style, then you may enjoy this book.
Even from a young age, Marie is persistently objectified and viewed through the male gaze, which I personally found difficult to read. From my understanding of the plotline, the intent behind this book is to comment on the smothering and proud ideals of family lineage and elitism by playing out the restrictions and rebellions of such an upbringing in an exaggerated, calamitous storyline.
I found that the writing could be a bit dated and overly-flowery at times, although I think this is to give the characters an air of pomposity. Throughout Springtime in Lawrence Park, a number of quite sensitive topics are covered in a disspassionate way, including the death of a child, potential abuse, drug use and an attempted rape. This had the effect of making Marie’s world seem a threatening place, however they aren’t an easy read. As a side note, I personally don’t think the racial slur on p.131 is necessary and it alienated me from the story further, I’m afraid.
This is a very dark story, and for fans of this writing style then this could be a good book but I would say it isn’t one for the faint hearted or the thin-skinned.
| Primary Genre | Indie Author Books |
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