Review of Over the Devil's Back

[Raluca_Mihaila]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Over the Devil's Back" by Melva Haggar Dye.]

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3 out of 4 stars

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Leander and Gabrielle are best friends despite all the differences that should separate them. Gabrielle Westin Remington is the youngest member of the powerful Remington family living in Antioch, South Carolina. Leander Washington is only a brilliant black boy, the son of the sharecropper who lives on the large Remington estate. The spring of 1999 will change Leander’s life forever; he is the sole witness of a tragic event that will shock the entire town. The police have four suspects: Gabrielle’s grandfather (Will Remington), her father (Gabe Westin), her brother, Remy, and his friend, Mason. At only 9 years old, Leander is torn between doing the right thing and protecting his “blood sister” from any indirect harm. Whatever he decides, the protagonist must live with the consequences, as his grandmother would say: “What goes over the devil’s back, is gonna come crawling under his belly.”

The book was authentic and instructive regarding the small-town atmosphere; secrets are hard to keep, and the veneer is more important than anything. We also experience the slow but steady evolution towards non-discrimination. The writer painted an eloquent picture of the distinct mentalities of different generations. Will Remington is an entitled man proud of being “rich, powerful, and white,” while his granddaughter, Gabrielle, does not comprehend the concept of racism. In contrast, I was amazed to discover the exotic paradise of the Caribbean islands through Leander’s eyes; it was a place of freedom and inclusion for anyone.

Over the Devil's Back talks about relationships, family, and friendship. I appreciated the excellent character development; even the minor players were authentic and relatable. Gabrielle was my favorite character, especially as a child. She was fearless, direct, and ready to do anything to protect the people she loved. The author also presented many credible relationship patterns. Gabrielle’s parents married out of obligation, and their relationship suffered many changes during the years. Leander discovered his predestined mate and accepted her with an open mind. Gabrielle learned that a partnership based on mutual respect could bring more peace than a troubled love relation.

Even though the book included many positive aspects, I must mention one notable dislike. The ending was disappointing because the author enticed me with several mysteries during the 456 pages; I had several hypotheses in my mind, one more complicated than the other. However, the answer was so obvious that I felt cheated and offended. Also, some questions were left unanswered (or maybe the answers were too subtle for me). Don’t get me wrong, I immensely enjoyed the book, and my frustration proves how much I was invested in the story.

Due to the reasons explained above, I decided to give Over the Devil's Back by Melva Haggar Dye a rating of 3 out of 4 stars. Readers who prefer a character-driven book will be excited. However, if you are looking for a mystery novel, you might feel unsatisfied. People looking for romance stories will discover that love comes in many unexpected forms. Further, the author provided helpful information regarding parenting and dealing with persons who struggle with depression. A delicate audience might be bothered by the racism or the mention of sexual abuse and suicide.

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Over the Devil's Back
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Stephen Agbor]

It lovely to understand that love it on an atom of life, in which we owe ourselves that key to unlock our difference..

[Peace Chux]

So many emotions. Means that the book is definitely something. Thanks for your sincerity.

[Humera955]

This mystery sounds intriguing.
Thanks for this wonderful reveiw

[Alexander C Schmoock]

Interesting storyline. I'd love to read about love from the perspective of this story. Great review.

[Taana Ueh]

Would be really hard for Leander to do the right thing as emotions and sentiments are involved. Looking forward to finding out what happened. Thanks for the review.

[Raluca_Mihaila]

So many emotions. Means that the book is definitely something. Thanks for your sincerity.

I hope you will enjoy it!

[Raluca_Mihaila]

This mystery sounds intriguing.
Thanks for this wonderful reveiw

I hope it will appease your inner Sherlock . Thanks for your visit!

[Raluca_Mihaila]

Interesting storyline. I'd love to read about love from the perspective of this story. Great review.

You will certainly discover a new perspective. Thank you for sharing!

[Raluca_Mihaila]

Would be really hard for Leander to do the right thing as emotions and sentiments are involved. Looking forward to finding out what happened. Thanks for the review.

Anyone in his position would have a hard time, even an adult. Happy reading!

[Janet Kimetto]

Sounds interesting, especially with the excellent character development. Thanks for the wonderful review!

[Raluca_Mihaila]

Sounds interesting, especially with the excellent character development. Thanks for the wonderful review!

I am glad it sparked your interest! Thank for your visit and comment!

[Mercy Bolo]

I like that the author transports readers to a small town and paints a realistic picture of that life. I'm intrigued that there are inter-generational differences highlighted in the book. I'm, however, disappointed that the ending is anticlimactic.

[marta baglioni]

This book reminds me of a thriller movie that I've seen a couple of days ago. I might find it interesting. Thank you for the fantastic review!

[Raluca_Mihaila]

I like that the author transports readers to a small town and paints a realistic picture of that life. I'm intrigued that there are inter-generational differences highlighted in the book. I'm, however, disappointed that the ending is anticlimactic.

Well, you should read the book and decide whether you like the ending or not. I might be subjective. Thank you for your comment!