Review by Deb Bowen
Prolific author Joy Ross Davis offers readers both magical realism and a view of societal norms for upper class women during the Eisenhower era in The Goddess of Weaver Street (Wyatt-MacKenzie, July 2, 2024)
Women in the 1950s and early 1960s, relegated to rigidly defined domestic roles, cherished their portable hair dryers, created stunning casseroles, and wore stunning sheath dresses while adoring their husbands at cocktail parties. Former beauty queen Lynda Lee Rogers tried—really tried—to behave as a doctor’s wife should, but pills prescribed for blinding headaches and depression derailed her attempts. Her dreams were filled with deep conversations and wisdom from an ancient Irish weaver.
Lynda Lee does not rebel against society’s expectations, but rather asks what she can do to be more of use within the confines of her lifestyle. Her work with an orphanage and subsequent adoption of two children, provides her some solace and a sense of purpose.
The questions Lynda Lee asks herself are questions many of us ask today. How can we find meaning in life? How can we maintain a stable marriage? How can we be of service to the world around us? Lynda Lee’s struggle with mental health mirrors what many people face today.
While the novel reads smoothly and the characterization is strong, one troubling aspect is the way the craft of weaving is described. It is not likely that sweaters would be woven. Still, the ancient craft of weaving is used effectively in the story.
The old woman from Galway who meets Lynda Lee in her dreams weaves not only cloth, but comfort and solace for that place within Lynda Lee—and within us—that needs to find a home for the people we are meant to be.
Joy Ross Davis
The Goddess of Weaver Street claimed both the 2018 and 2021 Grand Prize at the Chanticleer Author Awards. Davis has written numerous novels, including The Hitman’s Wife, The Singer Sisters, Peaches and Lace, The Madwoman of Preacher’s Cove and The Witch of Blacklion. A former English professor, Davis lives in Alabama with her son and beloved dogs. She loves to speak at conferences, book club meetings, and events to share her connection with angels and the stories behind her books.
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