If the 1960's families stuck together even though it wasn't always for the best. Often to suffer the consequence were the children. Deborah Livingston was one such child. Deborah's parents were very diverse. Her father was much older than her mother and very controlling. Her mother was young, innocent and tried to please her husband despite his violent mood swings and drunken fits. And having unwanted children only flamed this reunion in an ugly way - especially when sons were preferred to daughters.
As a baby, Deborah can remember breaking her mother's pearls. Her innocence faded as her father beat her. The hands that could be so gentle had turned into weapons of rage. This began a childhood of fear, confusion and pain. Being called "stupid" was a phrase often sent her way. Whippings were a common occurrence. She was not the only one to suffer. Deborah's mother was another victim to her husband's violence. This woman had failed to protect Deborah in so many ways.
Emotionally scarred, Deborah grew up burying her emotions. This began a lifelong battle to control her roller coaster of feelings and learn how to except them for what they are despite her fears of rejection.
STRAND OF PEARLS is a heat felt memoir, honest and intriguing as Deborah learns how to love, forgive and accept her fears. What a wonderful title so fitting to the emotional links in Deborah's story. I thoroughly enjoyed this touching tale and can relate to some of the books content. Nicely done. ( )