Hester's Gift

Memory is capricious and tricky. She works her wickedness on us when we don't even know it's happening. Writing fiction increases the probability that we will see our own history through prisms of optimism and hope or of cynicism and despair, depending on our point of view. Am I writing about my history, my past, or is Hester's Gift a product of dreams and confabulations? Does it matter? If the reader can emotionally move into these phantom moments, if he or she recognizes the people as being like those remembered or loved, that's all I care about. I call it fantasy at the beginning but I am working toward the truth. Give yourself to the story and you'll know by the end if it tells a kind of truth or not.

The story takes you to 1948 in the boondocks. Here a variety of unexpected characters weave a pattern of sexuality, religious fanaticism, loyalty and betrayal, into the fabric of the small community of Sundew. The reader encounters a teacher's idealism and dedication; also danger, and ultimately, fulfillment. There is a strong gay theme and the book itself is dedicated to gay people and their friends everywhere.

~ M. Davidson