51 pages 1 hour read

Dennis Lehane

Small Mercies

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2023

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Small Mercies by Dennis Lehane is set in 1974 South Boston during the busing riots and crime boss James "Whitey" Bulger's reign. It follows Mary Pat Fennessy as she searches for her missing daughter, Julia, amidst racial turmoil and organized crime. Mary Pat's quest for answers and justice reveals deeply rooted social issues like racial discrimination, police violence, and the impact of organized crime. The book contains depictions of racism, racial discrimination, substance misuse, violence, and statutory rape.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Dennis Lehane's Small Mercies has garnered mixed responses. Positively noted for its intricate plot and rich character development, it adds depth to Lehane's signature noir style. Some readers, however, found the pacing uneven and the conclusion less satisfying than anticipated. Overall, it remains a compelling read for fans of crime fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Small Mercies?

A reader who enjoys gritty, atmospheric crime novels with deep socio-political undertones would appreciate Dennis Lehane's Small Mercies. Fans of Lehane's Mystic River or Richard Price's Lush Life will find the layered characters and moral complexities compelling. Ideal for those who relish a blend of mystery and social commentary.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Mystery / Crime Fiction

Horror / Thriller / Suspense Fiction

Historical Fiction

Topics

Race / Racism

Trauma / Abuse / Violence

Civil Rights / Jim Crow

Themes

Relationships: Mothers

Emotions/Behavior: Revenge

Values/Ideas: Justice & Injustice