A review by emily_mai
Seraph on the Suwanee by Zora Neale Hurston

emotional funny hopeful sad slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

The book explores sexuality, intimacy and communication between genders. I didn’t love where the plot went sometimes, but every turn felt realistic and believable. Very well written, felt easy and enjoyable to read but the content was still nuanced. Really cool experience reading this after Gone with The Wind. Some super similar themes but different perspectives—would highly recommend

---

Content Warnings

Moderate: Rape

When the main characters first go under the tree in the backyard, Jim rapes Arvay. It’s described in enough detail to be disturbing but not excessive. The rape is central to the plot, and I felt the author used it respectfully and truthfully. If you want to skip it, all you really need to know is that after Jim rapes her (and it’s definitely a rape, she definitely does not want it and is scared), Arvay suddenly wants Jim and then they have consensual sex. It was a powerful moment of sexual awakening, betrayal, and powerlessness for her.