When Julia is secretly ushered into the early 20th century by a group of brazen female activists, she boldly risks everything and embarks on a perilous journey to the wilds of untamed Florida; a place of great danger where men will stop at nothing to get what they want and where one man, and a faithful friend, force her to make yet more life-changing decisions..
Years later when Julia's great-granddaughter, Kelly, discovers some hidden tape recordings in her famous great-grandmother's dresser, and learns the real truth about Julia's year, a year that changed the course of history, she must decide what to do with her grandmother's incredible legacy. Will she keep the real secret of The Year and be brave enough to follow her own heart or will she reveal a long-held secret that could change everything?
The Year of Necessary Lies is a remarkable work of historical fiction that recaptures an era when women were just beginning to claim their place in the world and where one woman, who represents many, bravely championed a cause that is still alive today. It is an amazing love story on a grand scale that will touch and inspire readers everywhere.
On the surface, this book is about a woman who chooses to champion the cause of birds in the early 1900’s, when the height of fashion included wearing feathered hats, and the plumage industry made millions. Yet this is so much more than an historical novel. This is the story of a woman who learns who she truly is, what she values, and to live in such a way that she can be true to herself. In doing so, she rejects many of the conventions of the day, and embrace what is truly important to her.
Kris Radish has outdone herself in this book. The writing is eloquent, and the imagery is poignant. My only complaint is one unresolved question at the end, but that’s just me wanting the story to keep going. Overall, I would highly recommend this book.
