The Shape Of Mercy by Susan Meissner - Absolute Must Read!

What I Can Tell You:
Wow! I could not put this book down. It was read from cover to cover in two days (with two kids, three blogs, social media responsibilities, house duties, and a baby sitting gig). It called to me and every time I closed it, I felt like I was leaving the characters.

Susan's fictional story of three generations of woman is beautiful woven. When wealthy college student, Lauren decides to strike out on her own and answers an ad for a literature transcriptionist she meets 83 year old Abigail. Abigail has been entrusted with a journal which belonged to one of her ancestors, Mercy Hayworth, a victim of the Salem witch trials.

 Lauren, Abigail and Mercy have a lot more in common than one would expect.

I cannot say enough about this book! In a 305 page book we see the lives of three woman unfold, between a vast generation gap yet like a zipper, clasp together in the similiarities.

It is a 3 part love story. It is about perceptions, assumptions, friendship, honestly, defending your honor, strength and sacrifice.

While reading it, I felt like Lauren felt every time she finished transcribing for the day. She didn't want to leave Mercy. I didn't want to leave Mercy, Lauren or Abigail. Every time I closed the book, I pictured them waiting for me to reopen and read.

Susan Meissner's take on the Salem Witch Trails by using actual names and history and embellishing was genius. The readers guide at the back of the book, is perfect! The book is deeper than it appears and would make an excellent reading group selection!