Sister Evelyn became a Catholic nun after her father made a vow that if his son (her brother) came back alive from the war, he would give his youngest daughter to God, and she never realized that she could make a different decision for herself. After a tough beginning, Evelyn founded Mercy House with two of her fellow nuns–and friends–around 25 years ago, and together they have helped hundreds of women escape domestic violence and sexual abuse.
Mercy House is an unassuming house, known as a safe haven in a pretty rough neighborhood. But, the Catholic Church is cracking down on more liberal nuns, and when Bishop Hawkins arrives to inspect Mercy House, everything starts to fall apart.
This book is a strong (and in my opinion, valid) criticism of the problems of any organized religion that covers up sexual molestation and rape, treats women as second-class citizens, promotes immoral criminals within its ranks, and protects itself and its reputation at all costs.
I really liked the character of Sister Evelyn even as I was frustrated at her lack of action sometimes and her seemingly complete indoctrination into a religion that she fundamentally understood had major flaws. And Bishop Hawkins was just so evil, there was no question about right and wrong in this book, although it is probably the reason the author created Father John’s character since he at least somewhat humanizes the male priesthood.
Be prepared to be angry when you read this book, but this is one to pick up. Just make sure you have blocked out enough time to sit and read for a while since it will suck you in.
Thank you to NetGalley, Book Club Girl, and William Morrow Publishing for providing me with a copy of this ARC in exchange for my honest review. It had not influenced my opinion.