Misty's blood is the first novel from new author Sincerely Yours. Unlike most novels today, Misty's Blood has a purpose, according to the author: "Misty's Blood was written as a reminder that life presents each of us with challenges, struggles, temptations, and even disappointments that pave the way for us to impart wisdom..." And that is precisely what this book represents: a secret cave with nuggets full of wisdom to impart to anyone who gets a chance to take the journey with Misty.
Misty's Blood is the story of a young woman whose life seems destined for failure. Her story, though specific to Misty, feels familiar. Born into one of the most unpleasant of circumstances, living in poverty with her mother, who lives paycheck to paycheck, Misty's life only takes a downward spiral as time goes by. Her mother, Denise, sets the pace for what becomes a labyrinth of twists and turns in both their lives.
Whether or not you can relate to the specific circumstances of the characters' lives, it can be difficult at times not to find some of the characters endearing, like Mark, who takes Denise into his home during bad times, or Misty as a precocious seven year old. Despite the difficult roads upon which Misty treads, one of the novel's major themes is hope and faith. Many of the characters hold on to faith no matter their imperfections, shortcomings, or circumstances, and ultimately their ability to hold on helps the characters make it through, even when they can't see their destinations.
It is true that African-Americans have been telling stories like this in music, books, theater, television and film for decades, from 'Precious' to Ntozake Shange's "For Colored Girls..." and from Tyler Perry plays to the humble and deeply rooted beginnings of hip-hop. Besides the fascinating plot twists of the story, which are unique to Sincerely Yours' storytelling, what this novel does differently is the way in which the author's desire to impact and change the lives of others shines through, particularly when compared to contemporary authors. Sincerely Yours follows in the footsteps of many African-American women, both the forgotten and the honored, who have contributed their talents and energy to reaching out to humanity.
Of course, the book isn't without its imperfections, but I believe the storytelling , its intent, and poignancy make them forgivable. And ultimately, that is the essence of the story--the journey to forgiveness, of others and ourselves, to seek out the greater forgiveness of God who uses Sincerely Yours' talent to speak healing into the lives of the world's Mistys.
You can read more about the book and author, and purchase the book at: http://mistysblood.com/
I encourage you to visit the site.
