The Good Daughter
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Average rating4
Abigail is a proud member of the New America Baptist Church. Living miles from the nearest town in South Carolina, she is safe from the depraved modern world. She is a good daughter. A valued member of the community. So when she is the sole survivor of a fire that burns her family's home to the ground, it seems like a tragic accident. Until a discovery is made- before the fire, Abigail let a stranger in. Who was the stranger? What lit the fire? And was the outside world always the threat - or did danger lurk within the community's walls?
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The Good Daughter by Laure van Rensburg starts as a slow burner, challenging the reader to engage with the storyline. However, the narrative takes a captivating turn when Abigail encounters podcaster Summer Washington, transforming into a compelling psychological thriller. The storytelling becomes increasingly powerful, displaying empathy, sympathy, and sensitivity. The novel is praised for its excellent descriptions and vivid imagery portraying life on the Plantation.
The exploration of the New America Baptist Church community unfolds with insightful glimpses into their adherence to the Bible, gender roles, and internal conflicts. The coercive male control and dominance within the group become evident as Abigail navigates the ordained path. The scrutiny of the church from outsiders reveals multiple secrets and a loose relationship with the truth, creating a disturbing and sinister atmosphere.
The novel's emotional depth is complemented by tension, plot twists, and the portrayal of Abigail's character evolution. The relationship between Abigail and Summer is highlighted as catalysts for change, with strong characterizations. The storytelling follows an unpredictable path, building to a compelling and satisfying conclusion.
Set in South Carolina, the juxtaposition between Newhaven Plantation and the modern world is beautifully depicted, creating a clear sense of time and place. The dual timeline, including excerpts from news articles and podcasts, adds depth to the narrative, keeping readers connected to the story.
Overall, The Good Daughter is commended for its well-executed prose, engaging storytelling, and vivid portrayal of complex themes within a unique community.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to review an arc copy