Small Mercies

Small Mercies by Dennis Lehane. I heard about this book when NPR interviewed the author and was intrigued. It takes place amid the busing backlash in Boston in 1973. He spoke of being a 9-year-old during that time and remembering the riot that took place, so it takes center stage in the novel, but it’s really more of a backdrop to the novel, though the racism it exposed is deeply woven into the novel. The interviewer spoke of the main character, Mary Pat, and what a strong and determined character she is, and I second that. Also unforgettable, and I second that as well. Not altogether a good person, but rather a victim who chooses not to be a victim, so I was certainly rooting for her. There is a lot of violence, but I was ok with it as it was mostly perpetrated against the “bad guys.” A real “can’t-put-it-down” book! Highly recommend.