The Mistress's Daughter

This week I read "The Mistress's Daughter" a memoir by controversial author A.M. Homes. This work details how after 30 years her biological parents appear into her life. Homes is constantly doubting herself and pushing away others in her quest to find herself. During a time when many parents chose not to tell their children they were adopted, A.M. Homes was fortunate that her parents were up front with her. While many might have appreciated the honesty, Homes is constantly unsure of who she really is and where she really belongs.

When she finally does get the chance to meet her biological parents she is frightened off by her mother and strangely drawn to her father. I think because her biological mother becomes almost possessive and needy it throws Homes off because she herself wants to be taken care of. Her relationship with her father is complicated because she is the child of the other woman. Her father's wife wants the whole thing to disappear including Homes, who wants nothing more than to be part of a family. Throughout all her searching and disappointments Homes does come to the conclusion that her adopted family IS her family and she is who she is because of them.

This book is rather depressing at times and some readers might think Homes is ungrateful or vengeful. But not everyone lives a life free of doubt and curiosity at who they really are, and Homes is no different. I would recommend this book to people who are not easily offended and can also understand the writers true message.

If you would like to read "The Mistress's Daughter" by A.M. Holmes, you can find it at Barnes and Noble or your local library.