Book Review: Zeal by Ingrid Jerkins
When I first picked up "Zeal" by Ingrid Jerkins, the premise immediately drew me in. A layered historical narrative exploring the aftermath of slavery and the quest for familial bonds? It felt like a promise of both heartache and hope. After having enjoyed Jerkins’ previous work, Caul Baby, I was excited to dive into this new chapter of her storytelling—one that explores not just the past, but the resonance it has in shaping our present.
At the heart of Zeal are the intertwined stories of Harrison and Tirzah. Set in the turbulent aftermath of the Civil War, the narrative begins with a poignant love letter penned in 1865, revealing the deep-seated fears and desires of those navigating a world newly tinged with the bittersweet taste of freedom. Harrison, a discharged Union soldier, embarks on a poignant journey back to the Ambrose plantation in Natchez, Mississippi, seeking his beloved Tirzah, who has been torn from him in harrowing ways. The desperation of his search captures the very essence of human resilience, and while I was immediately drawn to his character, I found Tirzah’s journey equally compelling. Her struggle for agency against a backdrop of abuse and societal oppression truly resonated with me, highlighting not only her bravery but also the strong emotional ties that bind families across generations.
Jerkins crafts her writing with a beautiful rhythm, each chapter flowing seamlessly into the next. The pacing felt just right, allowing me to savor the richly developed characters and the layered narrative that unveils itself over 150 years. Jerkins uses a dual timeline effectively, linking the contemporary struggles of Oliver and Ardelia with the painful past of Harrison and Tirzah. The legacy of slavery’s damage to the Black family is tackled with authenticity; it felt as though Jerkins was inviting readers to witness and reflect on a story that deserves to be heard.
One of the most memorable aspects for me was the exploration of love in its many forms—romantic, familial, and the enduring love that crosses the boundaries of time and suffering. When Harrison declares, “We will see each other again and finally have rest and peace,” it struck a chord. The hope inherent in love—no matter how fleeting or distant—became a central theme that lingered with me long after I closed the book.
"Zeal" is more than just a historical romance; it’s a meditation on the power of connection and the inexorable ties that bind us to our past. For readers who appreciate well-researched historical fiction intertwined with poignant family sagas, this book is a must-read. Fans of authors like Colson Whitehead or Yaa Gyasi will find Jerkins’ work compelling. Personally, Zeal left me reflecting deeply on the histories I carry within me and how they shape my understanding of love and resilience.
In conclusion, Ingrid Jerkins’ "Zeal" is a beautifully layered exploration not just of love, but of the long shadows of history that continue to influence our lives today. An engaging, heartfelt journey that I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone eager for a story that resonates on multiple levels, Zeal invites us all to seek out connection, even in the most fragmented of histories.