The House Girl is told in two time periods: the 1850s and the early 2000s. New York lawyer Lina Sparrow is attempting to locate a plaintiff in a trial that would provide reparation for slaves and potentially become a historic class action lawsuit. In her quest to find the perfect plaintiff she comes across the artwork of artist Lu Anne Bell, from the 1850s.
In 1852 Josephine Bell was the house girl for LuAnne and her husband. Lu Anne's health is failing, and more and more Josephine finds herself abused and mistreated. She is determined to run away from the Bell's and all the family she has ever known.
These two stories come together as we learn that much of the artwork attributed to Lu Anne may actually have been painted by Josephine. Now it is Lina's job to find a relative in the case - someone who is willing to speak on behalf of Josephine.
This novel was beautifully written! I immediately recommended it to others, and I highly recommend it to you as well.
Enjoy this interview with author Tara Conklin:
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