A review by haleyashtonpowell
Contending Forces: A Romance Illustrative Of Negro Life North And South by Pauline Elizabeth Hopkins

5.0

A novel as intricate, sad, and deeply telling as the legacy of slavery in all its horrors and confusion. Even in moments you think Hopkins is wrong, she endeavors to show she's right and is usually successful. The book combines the struggles of feminism, colorism, racism, sexual assault, religion, occultism, and makes them the common cords that tie black communities and black life. It was difficult to read at times, but absolutely excellent.