Title: The Sixth of September
Author: Callista Bowright
Publisher: Crest Media Distribution
ISBN: 9781952046100
Pages: 892
Genre: Adult Fantasy Fiction
Reviewed by: Nicole Olson

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Disappointment, heartbreak, pain, suffering and lots of children – this is what the two main characters of The Sixth of September have in common. They know nothing of one another until it turns out they also have one big thing in both of their lives – and it turns out he’s been swindling them both.

Author Callista Bowright writes beautiful and lengthy narratives about two women Sophie and Olivia. Though their beginnings are quite different they each experience their own misadventures in love and marriage. I found myself enthralled in these two women’s lives – their dreams and ambitions, the way they raise their kids, and how they are treated by the men they encounter. This book can be an eye opener for young women that are not experienced in dating, child-rearing or marriage. Bowright’s descriptions of male behavior are for the most part believable, though some characters are quite grotesque and violent.

While Sophie and Olivia grew up worlds apart – they meet each other in an unfortunate circumstance and form a bond. They find strength in each other and bring their own justice – as they have had to do for themselves throughout their whole lives. This book celebrates women’s strength while also highlighting their feeble weakness when it comes to men and their own hearts. When these two women are in love, they are helpless as leaves being blown about in Autumn, by the throes of their feelings. They are painfully forgiving until they cannot forgive any longer and there is nothing left of them to give.

I would not call this work a feminist piece, as Sophie and Olivia are quite tied to the domestic sphere of life. While both of them have their own careers and are even considered successful in being able to provide for themselves – they must also constantly think of their children. The men in their lives seem able to come and go as they please, while also disturbing the peace and sanctuary of the home that Sophie and Olivia work so hard to maintain.

While this is a lengthy read, the numerous love affairs and plot twists throughout the book make it a worthwhile endeavor. A great pick for romance fanatics and leisure readers alike. I found myself envying aspects of Sophie’s and Olivia’s lives – as well as empathizing with their tragic situations in love. I admired their ability to command careers while also running a home and raising children. This book glamorizes a woman’s right to flee a bad situation and her ability to build herself anew again.