I really loved this novel, however, the best thing about it was that it was based on a true story, and almost every single character in it had been a real person. This is the story of how a murderer was uncovered and sentenced to prison by way of a ghost’s “testimony”. Seriously, how unbelievable is that?
In the 1890’s spirited and beautiful Zona marries “Trout” Shue against her families’ wishes. Mere months after having wedded, Zona “falls” down the stairs and dies. Trout manages to circumvent the doctor from examining her, and prepares her body for burial himself. His actions are strange and far from what is considered normal under the circumstances, leading to his mother-in-law’s suspicious. As evidence mounts against Trout, Mrs. Heaster, Zona’s mother, is not letting this death go unpunished.
Zona Heaster Shue
The story is told from the perspective of Mrs. Heaster, and the black lawyer, James Gardner, who was the second lawyer for Trout at his trial. James tells the story to his doctor (in 1930) while undergoing therapy in an insane asylum.
One of the best things about this novel is the fact that McCrumb pays great attention to detail, giving the reader a true glimpse into life at that time. I really enjoyed this novel, and highly recommend it. Well done, McCrumb!
Sharyn McCrumb
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