David L Payne

The Peculiar Twists of Fate David L Payne

Set in the 1924 this is a gripping saga of a young woman trapped in a paradoxical moral and social crisis. At 16 years old, the main character, Minnie Cheatham finds herself in the socially awkward position of being pregnant and unwed. This was a terrifying proposition for any woman, especially someone so youthful. During this era virtue and virginity were considered synonymous. Because of her circumstances Minnie was subjected to unconstrained rumors and conversation about her scandalous condition. Absurdly as a young woman who had lost her virginity outside of marriage, Minnie was labeled "fallen" or "ruined". Local gossipmongers did not hesitate to point out her moral shortcomings and negatively belittled her. Ostracized, poor and unemployed this absorbing story follows Minnie's struggle to keep and care for her "illegitimate" child. As the Minnie tries to escape her brutal circumstances, the reader is provided an in depth insight into the human drama of the young unwed mother's world. Compelled to leave home, she was forced to maneuver life's cruelties lobbed at her alone. Initially in a youthful wide-eyed manner she enjoyed a refreshing simplicity. A person of integrity, she did not look for ulterior motives when dealing with people. It didn't take long for her to encounter an unscrupulous person and learn that life can be unpredictable, harsh and unjust. The moment Minnie thought she had ideally figured a way out of her challenges she was victimized by a horrifically deceptive act. She learns to understand that setbacks, failures and tragedy are all a part of life. Through all her struggles she learns that quality of life is largely dependent on the ability to overcome challenges imposed. Minnie's story spans nearly a half century and is a testimony to her indomitable spirit. Being a woman of color, with little education, she relentlessly has to navigate poverty, racism, sexism, deception and heartbreak. As her tale weaves, she manages to put life in its proper perspective and is lifted from misery; finding joy and success. Minnie slowly evolves to persevere through even the toughest adversity. Experience and maturity teaches her that every insult, every disappointment, every pain and hurt that breaks your heart only serves to make you stronger.