Soulful Strut

SOULFUL STRUT is a gritty book telling the story of a group of women recently released from prison and living in a halfway house.

Monette Victor was wrongly convicted and after her lawyers finally convince the parole board she’s released into the custody of Ms Trudy Sherman at ‘New Beginnings.’ Some of the women resent Monette, who has become an overnight celebrity after writing a book based on her experiences. She’s strong, but the man she blames for her incarceration has many irons in a lot of fires. Despite the odds, Monette is determined to help those who want her help, clear her own name, and to re-connect with her children.

When she meets Jayson Odum he seems quiet and retiring, nothing like anyone she’s ever dated before. Despite their differences they become friends, and he does his best to convince her he really likes her. She’s had to build a shield around her feelings to survive, but Jayson keeps coming back for more. Candi Lockart is one woman pleased to see Monette as they’d shared a cell. Candi is pulled back toward her old ways but gradually begins to realise that Monette has changed and it’s time for her to look at her own life before it’s too late.

Monette is an interesting character with a lot of obstacles to overcome. The book is an inspiration in many ways for anyone wishing to start over, leaving the dark side behind and making you think and feel better. The characters are an interesting mix of social workers, those willing to give the down trodden a chance and ex-prisoners with their own agendas. They are all very human with their own energy and rhythms battling conflict within and outside the half way house. The slow burning relationship between Jayson and Monette brings a love interest into the story keeping a bright aspect alive. The plot buzzes with energy and there is a good depth in the plot. For this reviewer it gave a different perspective on how it feels after many years in an institution. From the good old times to what is required in the present, made a refreshingly different read. The story is clear-cut and has a very satisfying ending, as the women work at making a new and better future. One they’d never thought it was possible to have, in this Cinderella with a difference tale.

January 2007