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In the Face of the Sun
Go On Girl Book Club 2021 New Author of the Year | She Reads Best Literary Historical Fiction Coming in 2022 | BookRiot 2022 Historical Fiction to Add to Your TBR Right Now | We are Bookish Historical Fiction Novels You’ll Want in Your Future | BiblioLifestyle Most Anticipated Books of 2022 | BookBub Best Books of Spring 2022 & Best Historical Fiction Books of 2022 | BookTrib Top Ten Historical Fiction Books for the Spring 2022
In this haunting novel, the author of Wild Women and the Blues weaves together two stories as they unfold decades apart, as a woman on the run from an abusive husband joins her intrepid aunt as they head across the country from Chicago to Los Angeles, and confront a painful and shadowy past that has reverberated across generations.
1928, Los Angeles: The newly-built Hotel Somerville is the hotspot for the city's glittering African-American elite. It embodies prosperity and dreams of equality for all—especially Daisy Washington. An up-and-coming journalist, Daisy anonymously chronicles fierce activism and behind-the-scenes Hollywood scandals in order to save her family from poverty. But power in the City of Angels is also fueled by racism, greed, and betrayal. And even the most determined young woman can play too many secrets too far . . .
1968, Chicago: For Frankie Saunders, fleeing across America is her only escape from an abusive husband. But her rescuer is her reckless, profane Aunt Daisy, still reeling from her own shattered past. Frankie doesn't want to know what her aunt is up to so long as Daisy can get her to LA—and safety. But Frankie finds there’s no hiding from long-held secrets—or her own surprising strength.
Daisy will do whatever it takes to settle old scores and resolve the past—no matter the damage. And Frankie will come up against hard choices in the face of unexpected passion. Both must come to grips with what they need, what they’ve left behind—and all that lies ahead . . .
In this haunting novel, the author of Wild Women and the Blues weaves together two stories as they unfold decades apart, as a woman on the run from an abusive husband joins her intrepid aunt as they head across the country from Chicago to Los Angeles, and confront a painful and shadowy past that has reverberated across generations.
1928, Los Angeles: The newly-built Hotel Somerville is the hotspot for the city's glittering African-American elite. It embodies prosperity and dreams of equality for all—especially Daisy Washington. An up-and-coming journalist, Daisy anonymously chronicles fierce activism and behind-the-scenes Hollywood scandals in order to save her family from poverty. But power in the City of Angels is also fueled by racism, greed, and betrayal. And even the most determined young woman can play too many secrets too far . . .
1968, Chicago: For Frankie Saunders, fleeing across America is her only escape from an abusive husband. But her rescuer is her reckless, profane Aunt Daisy, still reeling from her own shattered past. Frankie doesn't want to know what her aunt is up to so long as Daisy can get her to LA—and safety. But Frankie finds there’s no hiding from long-held secrets—or her own surprising strength.
Daisy will do whatever it takes to settle old scores and resolve the past—no matter the damage. And Frankie will come up against hard choices in the face of unexpected passion. Both must come to grips with what they need, what they’ve left behind—and all that lies ahead . . .
352 pages, Paperback
First published April 26, 2022
About the author
Denny S. Bryce
6 books787 followersDenny S. Bryce is a best-selling, award-winning author of historical fiction. A former dancer and public relations professional, Denny is an adjunct professor in the MFA program at Drexel University, a book critic for NPR, and a freelance writer whose work has appeared in USA Today and Harper’s Bazaar. She is also a member of the Historical Novel Society, Women’s Fiction Writers Association, and Tall Poppy Writers. Originally from Ohio, she likes to call Chicago her hometown but currently resides in Savannah, Georgia. You can find her online at DennySBryce.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 199 reviews
January 29, 2023
In the Face of the Sun is a dual timeline story taking place primarily in 1968 and in 1928 — In 1928, Daisy is working as a maid at the new Hotel Somerville, an elite and popular hotel for African-Americans in Los Angeles, where the 1928 NAACP convention is being held. Daisy is also an aspiring writer and agrees to feed gossip to Harry Belmont, a newspaper writer who offers Daisy a small cut for her intel, which she needs to help her family out.
In 1968, Frankie is leaving her abusive husband in Chicago, and heading back to her mother’s house in Los Angeles. Her journey doesn’t start as smoothly as she planned, and she ends up traveling across the country with her Aunt Daisy. The trip is brimming with long-held family tension and past resentments.
I enjoyed the earlier timeline of Daisy’s younger years the most, but stayed interested to see how things would play out from the past to the 1960s present. In the Face of the Sun was my first book by Denny Bryce and I look forward to reading more from her.
Thank you to bibliolifestyle and Kensington Books for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
In 1968, Frankie is leaving her abusive husband in Chicago, and heading back to her mother’s house in Los Angeles. Her journey doesn’t start as smoothly as she planned, and she ends up traveling across the country with her Aunt Daisy. The trip is brimming with long-held family tension and past resentments.
I enjoyed the earlier timeline of Daisy’s younger years the most, but stayed interested to see how things would play out from the past to the 1960s present. In the Face of the Sun was my first book by Denny Bryce and I look forward to reading more from her.
Thank you to bibliolifestyle and Kensington Books for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 17, 2023
1928. Sisters Daisy and Henrietta Washington work as chambermaids and at the newly opened Somerville Hotel. Daisy wants to be a journalist, she anonymously hands inside information to a reporter and for a good reason. This causes Daisy to lose two important things, her sister stops speaking to her and she no longer knows who she can trust in Hollywood.
1968. Francine Saunders is married to Jackson, she’s eight weeks pregnant and she wants to leave her abusive husband. Her aunt Daisy offers her a ride to Los Angeles, Frankie isn’t prepared for her aunt’s reckless behavior, she chain smokes and swears and she wasn’t expecting a third person to join them. Frankie’s worried that two colored women driving in a bright red car with a draft dodging white man will attract unwanted attention and during such troubled and violent times. But Frankie wants to know why her mother and aunt haven’t spoken in forty years, she’s not going to give up her one opportunity to find out and she has no idea Daisy is planning revenge. The unconventional road trip is an interesting and entertaining plot combination of Driving Miss Daisy on drugs and Thelma and Louise.
I received a copy of In the Face of the Sun from Edelweiss and Kensington Publishing Corp in exchange for an honest review. Denny S. Bryce has written a relevant story set in old Hollywood and 1960’s Chicago about racism, love, tragedy, and the stages of grief, forgiveness and the lasting impact of physical and emotional abuse in the African-American community. Five stars from me and I can't wait to read Wild Women and the Blues.
1968. Francine Saunders is married to Jackson, she’s eight weeks pregnant and she wants to leave her abusive husband. Her aunt Daisy offers her a ride to Los Angeles, Frankie isn’t prepared for her aunt’s reckless behavior, she chain smokes and swears and she wasn’t expecting a third person to join them. Frankie’s worried that two colored women driving in a bright red car with a draft dodging white man will attract unwanted attention and during such troubled and violent times. But Frankie wants to know why her mother and aunt haven’t spoken in forty years, she’s not going to give up her one opportunity to find out and she has no idea Daisy is planning revenge. The unconventional road trip is an interesting and entertaining plot combination of Driving Miss Daisy on drugs and Thelma and Louise.
I received a copy of In the Face of the Sun from Edelweiss and Kensington Publishing Corp in exchange for an honest review. Denny S. Bryce has written a relevant story set in old Hollywood and 1960’s Chicago about racism, love, tragedy, and the stages of grief, forgiveness and the lasting impact of physical and emotional abuse in the African-American community. Five stars from me and I can't wait to read Wild Women and the Blues.
July 18, 2022
A wild ride of revenge and mending broken hearts, along an expansive Route 66 road trip. Told in alternating timelines and perspectives, we have a front row seat to the devastating consequences of jealousy and miscommunications; however, we also see the power of loyalty and family ties; even after years of hardship and pain, we know who we can turn to at the day’s end. Filled with great musical references and compelling characters, this is a great read for fans of historical fiction.
Thank you so much to Goodreads, Denny S Bryce, and Kensington publishing for this giveaway win!
Thank you so much to Goodreads, Denny S Bryce, and Kensington publishing for this giveaway win!
February 1, 2024
In the Face of the Sun by Denny S Bryce
Diverse Historical fiction. Multiple time lines.
1928, Los Angeles: The Hotel Somerville is the hotspot for the city’s glittering African-American elite. Daisy Washington works at the hotel as a cleaning maid while secretly reporting behind the scene news and scandals to a newspaper reporter.
1968, Chicago: Frankie Saunders decides to leave her abusive husband finally since she’s pregnant. She asks her aunt to give her a ride to the bus station to go to Los Angeles. Complications end up with Frankie and Daisy driving Route 66 to LA.
Daisy will do whatever it takes to settle old scores and resolve the past. Frankie will face some hard choices as she learns about the past and current danger along the road to the future.
Two stories, one family, two different decades. Different race rules. Different times?
Poignant and real. Family tragedy over different decades but also showing the strength and resilience of women in difficult times.
I was routing for Frankie to be able to get away cleanly. Daisy was a surprise and made interesting reading. Overall it opened my eyes about a few things on the diversity scale and also reminded me of a few memories from my own childhood.
Diverse Historical fiction. Multiple time lines.
1928, Los Angeles: The Hotel Somerville is the hotspot for the city’s glittering African-American elite. Daisy Washington works at the hotel as a cleaning maid while secretly reporting behind the scene news and scandals to a newspaper reporter.
1968, Chicago: Frankie Saunders decides to leave her abusive husband finally since she’s pregnant. She asks her aunt to give her a ride to the bus station to go to Los Angeles. Complications end up with Frankie and Daisy driving Route 66 to LA.
Daisy will do whatever it takes to settle old scores and resolve the past. Frankie will face some hard choices as she learns about the past and current danger along the road to the future.
Two stories, one family, two different decades. Different race rules. Different times?
Poignant and real. Family tragedy over different decades but also showing the strength and resilience of women in difficult times.
I was routing for Frankie to be able to get away cleanly. Daisy was a surprise and made interesting reading. Overall it opened my eyes about a few things on the diversity scale and also reminded me of a few memories from my own childhood.
April 22, 2022
IN THE FACE OF THE SUN is a vivid multi-generational tale that brings to life two seismic times in American history, forty years apart: 1928 and 1968. But at its heart, author Denny S. Bryce's second novel is about two women who take a road trip out west for very different reasons: one to escape her present, the other to reckon with her past. Bryce is gifted at finding and evoking compassion for all her characters, while conveying their unique personal and social struggles. I loved all the women in this book, from sassy senior citizen Daisy and her ambitious younger incarnation, to Frankie, her caring and thoughtful niece, who must find the courage to surmount an abusive marriage. With a supporting cast that includes real-life significant players in historic LA and black Hollywood and a decades-old mystery to solve, IN THE FACE OF THE SUN will charm and captivate historical fiction readers.
February 3, 2022
Denny S. Bryce hits another one out of the park with her second novel, “In the Face of the Sun.” She returns to the 1920s for one of her two timelines, but juxtaposes it with a 1968 road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles.
In 1928 Los Angeles, Daisy Washington is a young woman who has dreams of becoming a journalist, writing for Black-owned papers. Mostly she collects gossip for Harry Belmont’s column in the “California Eagle” she gleans from the rich and famous Blacks who are checking into the new Hotel Somerville where she and her sister work as chambermaids... From Bryce’s descriptions the hotel is stylish and glamorous. Daisy is excited that gets to meet Stepin Fetchit, the comedian, one of the first Black actors to make it big in Hollywood. But even more, Daisy is over the moon to see W.E.B. Du Bois as he and a bevy of Hollywood elite arrive. Du Bois has arranged to hold the NAACP’s annual meeting at the Somerville.
Then the narrative shifts to 1968 Chicago. Daisy’s niece Francine (aka Frankie) has learned that she is about eight weeks pregnant with her abusive husband, Jackson. For the baby’s sake, and hers, Frankie has decided to leave him. As she is headed to the bus station, Daisy pulls up and talks her into going to Los Angeles with her. Since they will be driving, Jackson will never be able to catch up with her and force her to return. The two take off for a Thelma and Louise road-trip along Route 66. Daisy isn’t being nice; she has some business in LA and wouldn’t mind the company.
The 1928 timeline was well-researched. I felt as if I were there. In the 1968 timeline, there were more twists that made the road trip dangerous.
A third plot line that weaves between the two narratives is Daisy and her sister, Henrietta. They were very close, but a tragedy forced them to not speak for over forty years. Bryce is excellent at spooling out bits of information about this subplot as the roared toward a conclusion.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed “In the Face of the Sun.” This sophomore novel receives 5 out of 5 stars in Julie’s world.
In 1928 Los Angeles, Daisy Washington is a young woman who has dreams of becoming a journalist, writing for Black-owned papers. Mostly she collects gossip for Harry Belmont’s column in the “California Eagle” she gleans from the rich and famous Blacks who are checking into the new Hotel Somerville where she and her sister work as chambermaids... From Bryce’s descriptions the hotel is stylish and glamorous. Daisy is excited that gets to meet Stepin Fetchit, the comedian, one of the first Black actors to make it big in Hollywood. But even more, Daisy is over the moon to see W.E.B. Du Bois as he and a bevy of Hollywood elite arrive. Du Bois has arranged to hold the NAACP’s annual meeting at the Somerville.
Then the narrative shifts to 1968 Chicago. Daisy’s niece Francine (aka Frankie) has learned that she is about eight weeks pregnant with her abusive husband, Jackson. For the baby’s sake, and hers, Frankie has decided to leave him. As she is headed to the bus station, Daisy pulls up and talks her into going to Los Angeles with her. Since they will be driving, Jackson will never be able to catch up with her and force her to return. The two take off for a Thelma and Louise road-trip along Route 66. Daisy isn’t being nice; she has some business in LA and wouldn’t mind the company.
The 1928 timeline was well-researched. I felt as if I were there. In the 1968 timeline, there were more twists that made the road trip dangerous.
A third plot line that weaves between the two narratives is Daisy and her sister, Henrietta. They were very close, but a tragedy forced them to not speak for over forty years. Bryce is excellent at spooling out bits of information about this subplot as the roared toward a conclusion.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed “In the Face of the Sun.” This sophomore novel receives 5 out of 5 stars in Julie’s world.
April 23, 2022
Dual timelines with multiple arcs makes “In the Face of the Sun” an interesting, character driven, mildly complex historical novel.
Some of the characters in author, Denny S. Bryce’s sophomore offering are real historical figures: W. E. B. DuBoise, Step Fetchit, (Lincoln Perry), Drs. John & Vada Somerville, Beatrice M. Cannady, King Vidor, Nina Mae, McKinney, Jack Johnson and Charlotta Bass, among others. Some other characters are based on real people and you can read about those inspirations in the author’s note at the end of the book. I heartily suggest reading that PRIOR to reading the book.
The 1928 timeline takes place in what’s known as “Brown Hollywood” featuring key individuals from the movie industry, art, architecture and other white and black elite. Primary setting for this arc is the Hotel Somerville, an elite location for African Americans and a good foil for the many layers of characters in this arc. Bryce does a good job with descriptive prose relating to clothing, architecture, hair styles and makeup.
I was less impressed with the dialogue and found it confusing and not historically accurate in some instances. The phrase, “no worries” appears in the 1968 timeline when my research says it didn’t arrive in the US until approximately 1986 with Mick Dundee and his blockbuster movie. There are other examples but I won’t bore you. Also in the dialogue are an huge number of grammar disasters. Because I read an advanced copy, I cannot tell if it’s meant to be part of the language of lower socioeconomic black society or it’s major proofing that still needs to be done. My suspicion is the later as the errors effect all characters.
1968 is the timeline for the second major thread. Frankie, her Aunt, Daisy and Tobey, a white pacifist needing details to fill out his character, are heading across country in Daisy’s red mustang. Each has a specific goal in mind, running from and to something or someone. They meet a colorful bunch of quirky folks and find a heap of trouble as they travel from Chicago to L. A. Historical details from the 1928 timeline are filled into this timeline as Daisy tells her niece, tidbit by tidbit, about her intriguing life and unknown information about Frankie’s estranged mother.
Relationships between husbands and wives, aunt and niece, sisters, friends and race relationships are the hallmark of “In the Face of the Sun”. A short epilogue chapter that takes place in 1990 goes a long way to tie up the loose threads. Adding a brief third timeline, it’s a good ending to Bryce’s second offering and creates a satisfying conclusion for all concerned📚
NOTE: 10 questions are included at the end of the book for reading groups or book clubs. Read & Reviewed from a GoodReads Giveaway.
Some of the characters in author, Denny S. Bryce’s sophomore offering are real historical figures: W. E. B. DuBoise, Step Fetchit, (Lincoln Perry), Drs. John & Vada Somerville, Beatrice M. Cannady, King Vidor, Nina Mae, McKinney, Jack Johnson and Charlotta Bass, among others. Some other characters are based on real people and you can read about those inspirations in the author’s note at the end of the book. I heartily suggest reading that PRIOR to reading the book.
The 1928 timeline takes place in what’s known as “Brown Hollywood” featuring key individuals from the movie industry, art, architecture and other white and black elite. Primary setting for this arc is the Hotel Somerville, an elite location for African Americans and a good foil for the many layers of characters in this arc. Bryce does a good job with descriptive prose relating to clothing, architecture, hair styles and makeup.
I was less impressed with the dialogue and found it confusing and not historically accurate in some instances. The phrase, “no worries” appears in the 1968 timeline when my research says it didn’t arrive in the US until approximately 1986 with Mick Dundee and his blockbuster movie. There are other examples but I won’t bore you. Also in the dialogue are an huge number of grammar disasters. Because I read an advanced copy, I cannot tell if it’s meant to be part of the language of lower socioeconomic black society or it’s major proofing that still needs to be done. My suspicion is the later as the errors effect all characters.
1968 is the timeline for the second major thread. Frankie, her Aunt, Daisy and Tobey, a white pacifist needing details to fill out his character, are heading across country in Daisy’s red mustang. Each has a specific goal in mind, running from and to something or someone. They meet a colorful bunch of quirky folks and find a heap of trouble as they travel from Chicago to L. A. Historical details from the 1928 timeline are filled into this timeline as Daisy tells her niece, tidbit by tidbit, about her intriguing life and unknown information about Frankie’s estranged mother.
Relationships between husbands and wives, aunt and niece, sisters, friends and race relationships are the hallmark of “In the Face of the Sun”. A short epilogue chapter that takes place in 1990 goes a long way to tie up the loose threads. Adding a brief third timeline, it’s a good ending to Bryce’s second offering and creates a satisfying conclusion for all concerned📚
NOTE: 10 questions are included at the end of the book for reading groups or book clubs. Read & Reviewed from a GoodReads Giveaway.
January 26, 2023
This one takes us on a wild ride with a cross-country road trip with an aunt and her niece. Told in alternating timelines of 1928 and 1968.
At the heart of this novel it is about two women: Daisy who is out for revenge from the past and Frankie trying to escape her past.
One of my main things I loved about this one was the sassy and witty banter of Daisy. Daisy is the aunt who doesn't hold back, who tells you exactly how she sees it, and is not afraid to go after what she wants.
At times though with the two different timelines, I did at times forget they were even related. Mainly because in the 1928 timeline Daisy seemed like a totally different person compared to the 1968 timeline. I really wish we could have gotten more about Daisy's life to see how it shaped her to change so much.
Overall though I really did enjoy this one.
At the heart of this novel it is about two women: Daisy who is out for revenge from the past and Frankie trying to escape her past.
One of my main things I loved about this one was the sassy and witty banter of Daisy. Daisy is the aunt who doesn't hold back, who tells you exactly how she sees it, and is not afraid to go after what she wants.
At times though with the two different timelines, I did at times forget they were even related. Mainly because in the 1928 timeline Daisy seemed like a totally different person compared to the 1968 timeline. I really wish we could have gotten more about Daisy's life to see how it shaped her to change so much.
Overall though I really did enjoy this one.
February 28, 2022
Told in alternating time lines: 1968 and 1928, it’s a story about a young Black woman escaping her abusive husband and her audacious Aunt Daisy, who helps her escape.
The writing was invigorating, the characters realistic, and the story is compelling.
There is a lot Of issues the characters face in the book. It’s an enlightening read.
Thanks to Edelweiss and Kensington for the early read.
The writing was invigorating, the characters realistic, and the story is compelling.
There is a lot Of issues the characters face in the book. It’s an enlightening read.
Thanks to Edelweiss and Kensington for the early read.
February 3, 2022
A dual story of fame, fortune, love and revenge. 1928 Two sisters work at a famous hotel catering to the black elite of Los Angeles. Daisy and Henrietta take their jobs very seriously at the Hotel Somerville and are privy to secrets, scandals and the comings and goings of the Hollywood elite until
something happens to wedge the sisters apart. Fast forward to 1968 where Frankie is pregnant and fleeing an abusive husband in Chicago. She needs a getaway which is just what Aunt Daisy will provide but she has no idea what she is getting herself into. Daisy is looking to settle old scores and it will be a roadtrip for the books. Old Hollywood meets Thelma and Louise plus one young hippie roadtrip. A wonderful slice of Hollywood glamour that has been largely unnoticed paired with the turbulent 60's civil rights movement. My thanks to the publisher for the advance copy. 4 1/2 stars
something happens to wedge the sisters apart. Fast forward to 1968 where Frankie is pregnant and fleeing an abusive husband in Chicago. She needs a getaway which is just what Aunt Daisy will provide but she has no idea what she is getting herself into. Daisy is looking to settle old scores and it will be a roadtrip for the books. Old Hollywood meets Thelma and Louise plus one young hippie roadtrip. A wonderful slice of Hollywood glamour that has been largely unnoticed paired with the turbulent 60's civil rights movement. My thanks to the publisher for the advance copy. 4 1/2 stars
August 7, 2022
Well researched, but the writing wasn’t polished. Dialogue was contrived and stilted. Daisy was straight-laced and proper in 1928 and the complete opposite in 1968 but there was no transition that helped us understand why. Not a mystery at all, just a hop from event to event without nuance or character development. I love historical fiction, and the history was great. Everything else was not.
August 30, 2022
Historical fiction told in a dual timeline featuring African American women. Daisy is early 20's during 1928 and living in Los Angeles. Frankie, her niece, is also in her early 20's but in 1968. Frankie is on the run from Chicago to Los Angeles to get away from her abusive husband. Daisy is now around 60 years old and with a young, white male companion that somehow really didn't mesh with the story for me.
The three of them end up on a crazy road trip fueled by revenge in the case of Daisy. Frankie was motivated by fear of both her husband catching up with them, and of her road trip companions and the attentions they might bring to the mixed group while crossing in white man territory. Some trouble was found, but mostly there was a lot of smoking a drinking happening.
Meanwhile back in the 1920's a lot is happening in Daisy's world. Daisy is a chambermaid at the first black built hotel for Negroes only patronage. That is where all the intrigue happens that changes the direction of Daisy's future and that of her family's. I could have stayed in 1928 longer and followed those characters deeper.
Things come to a head in the end that bring both past and present into conflict with the big mystery being solved.
I can only review what I have read which was an advanced uncorrected edition. As such I expect typos and some errors. This ARC however became increasingly full of problematic text that I assume was fixed for the final edition. I rated this edition 3.5 stars. I received my copy from a bookstagrammer giveaway. All opinions are mine.
The three of them end up on a crazy road trip fueled by revenge in the case of Daisy. Frankie was motivated by fear of both her husband catching up with them, and of her road trip companions and the attentions they might bring to the mixed group while crossing in white man territory. Some trouble was found, but mostly there was a lot of smoking a drinking happening.
Meanwhile back in the 1920's a lot is happening in Daisy's world. Daisy is a chambermaid at the first black built hotel for Negroes only patronage. That is where all the intrigue happens that changes the direction of Daisy's future and that of her family's. I could have stayed in 1928 longer and followed those characters deeper.
Things come to a head in the end that bring both past and present into conflict with the big mystery being solved.
I can only review what I have read which was an advanced uncorrected edition. As such I expect typos and some errors. This ARC however became increasingly full of problematic text that I assume was fixed for the final edition. I rated this edition 3.5 stars. I received my copy from a bookstagrammer giveaway. All opinions are mine.
February 27, 2024
Honestly I spent half of the book thinking it would be revealed that Isaiah was Henrietta and Daisy’s half brother. He resembled their dad and had the same mannerisms and talent as their brother?
Anyway, I liked the plot and the setting of this book but the dual timeline felt a little bit disconnected. The murder, which I’d expect to be the main conflict of the book, felt like a blip in the story. It may have just had too many plot lines and supporting characters.
Anyway, I liked the plot and the setting of this book but the dual timeline felt a little bit disconnected. The murder, which I’d expect to be the main conflict of the book, felt like a blip in the story. It may have just had too many plot lines and supporting characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2022
Solid read. Enjoyed much more than her first book and can definitely see growth. I love how the author interjects historical facts throughout the storyline. While i was a kid in 1968, i remember a lot of the events of that time. Im glad I gave this author a second chance.
February 24, 2022
In the Face of the Sun is the multigenerational journey of an African-American family from 1928 to 1968.
It chronicles the history of racism and activism in the United States. In 1928, the Hotel Somerville opened in LA. It was the first luxury hotel built exclusively for Blacks. It also employed two young, Black sisters, Daisy and Henrietta Washington.
A parallel story starts in Chicago in 1968. The country is reeling from the Vietnam War and the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Senator Robert Kennedy. We meet Frankie Saunders, a young, pregnant Black woman who is fleeing an abusive husband.
It is the story about how dreams, love and misconceptions can destroy a family. It is also about how a cross country road trip with an estranged aunt, her pregnant niece and a draft dodger sheds light on the past and helps resolve the misdeeds from 40 years early.
So lucky to have received an advance copy.
It chronicles the history of racism and activism in the United States. In 1928, the Hotel Somerville opened in LA. It was the first luxury hotel built exclusively for Blacks. It also employed two young, Black sisters, Daisy and Henrietta Washington.
A parallel story starts in Chicago in 1968. The country is reeling from the Vietnam War and the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Senator Robert Kennedy. We meet Frankie Saunders, a young, pregnant Black woman who is fleeing an abusive husband.
It is the story about how dreams, love and misconceptions can destroy a family. It is also about how a cross country road trip with an estranged aunt, her pregnant niece and a draft dodger sheds light on the past and helps resolve the misdeeds from 40 years early.
So lucky to have received an advance copy.
May 23, 2022
4.5 stars - compelling with a vivid voice, though the pacing sagged a bit at times. I didn’t find myself as sucked in and flying through the pages as I’d hoped. Minor complaints for a strong story.
December 26, 2022
thoughts coming shortly
June 25, 2023
Thank you to Kensington Books for the copy.
December 12, 2022
Impressive. I should have written this review upon finishing the book, but I forgot to do it and so now two months out, with few notes, I’m trying and failing to recall important details that made me go four stars. This is no fault of the novel, the failings are completely my own. The story is an enjoyable one with a well paced road trip that is between Frankie and her older Aunt, who she doesn’t really know a lot about, but will find out on their extended if unintended road trip. Some interesting Los Angeles history surrounding the opening of the first Black hotel in LA and the story moves back and forth between late 1920s LA and ‘68 Chicago. Denny S. Bryce does an an excellent job of building the back stories of Daisy and Frankie. The dilemmas they face are realistic and working through these conflicts puts the reader front and center in an engaging story. Thanks to Edelweiss and Kensington for a DRC.
May 15, 2022
I picked this up in audio after publication. I was really rooting for Frankie and hoped she made it to LA and away from her husband. This element of the story was far more interesting than the other, interloped story involving Daisy and the white man she's running across the country with. I see what Bryce wanted to do with this novel. I typically love a dual time period novel. This one just didn't flow well for me. The jump back and forth wasn't smooth. I felt the execution was OK.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2022
Denny Bryce has once again penned a awesome historical fiction story that weaves together two stories from different time periods. The dual time-line technique allow us to witness the parallels between the two time periods. We also discover how the characters are connected across time. The dual timelines cover 1928 and 1968.
The story begins in 1968, the same year that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Presidential candidate, Robert Kennedy were assassinated. The war in Vietnam was raging, and the violent Chicago Democratic Convention was viewed on our TV screens. The world was “a mess”, as Daisy, one of the female protagonists describes it. We meet a pregnant Frankie who is planning to leave her abusive husband, Jackson. The absolutely last person in the world she expects to help her leave is her Aunt Daisy, the family member that no one speaks to, but only speaks about, and not in a good way. I love her character. The audacious Miss Daisy drives a “candy-apple-red Ford Mustang fastback”. She is a pivotal character in this story as Ms Bryce reveals her intriguing life’s story.
That’s where the year 1928, comes into play. Daisy is a young woman residing in sunny California. For African Americans across the nation, times were hard and racism was rampant. She lives with her over-bearing father, a sickly mother, and a younger sister, Henrietta. Daisy and Henrietta are employed at the newly built Hotel Somerville, the first luxury hotel built for African Americans in Los Angeles.
The historical figures who appear in the story will blow you away, from the Somervilles to Stepin Fetchit, aka Lincoln Perry. I can’t omit the music of the times and the iconic places that give the story a lot of authenticity. Ms Bryce’s precise references and research are on point in the telling of this engrossing story. I can’t wait until you read this story and follow Frankie, Daisy and Henrietta, women of a multigenerational family.The Epilogue, dated 1990, is epic!
IN THE FACE OF THE SUN is a gripping story that I highly recommend. It’s a great women’s fiction story, and historical fiction that is both entertaining and educational. You will not be disappointed.
The story begins in 1968, the same year that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Presidential candidate, Robert Kennedy were assassinated. The war in Vietnam was raging, and the violent Chicago Democratic Convention was viewed on our TV screens. The world was “a mess”, as Daisy, one of the female protagonists describes it. We meet a pregnant Frankie who is planning to leave her abusive husband, Jackson. The absolutely last person in the world she expects to help her leave is her Aunt Daisy, the family member that no one speaks to, but only speaks about, and not in a good way. I love her character. The audacious Miss Daisy drives a “candy-apple-red Ford Mustang fastback”. She is a pivotal character in this story as Ms Bryce reveals her intriguing life’s story.
That’s where the year 1928, comes into play. Daisy is a young woman residing in sunny California. For African Americans across the nation, times were hard and racism was rampant. She lives with her over-bearing father, a sickly mother, and a younger sister, Henrietta. Daisy and Henrietta are employed at the newly built Hotel Somerville, the first luxury hotel built for African Americans in Los Angeles.
The historical figures who appear in the story will blow you away, from the Somervilles to Stepin Fetchit, aka Lincoln Perry. I can’t omit the music of the times and the iconic places that give the story a lot of authenticity. Ms Bryce’s precise references and research are on point in the telling of this engrossing story. I can’t wait until you read this story and follow Frankie, Daisy and Henrietta, women of a multigenerational family.The Epilogue, dated 1990, is epic!
IN THE FACE OF THE SUN is a gripping story that I highly recommend. It’s a great women’s fiction story, and historical fiction that is both entertaining and educational. You will not be disappointed.
June 2, 2022
Thank you so much to @bibliolifestyle and @kensingtonbooks for allowing me to review this book!
In The Face of the Sun is by Denny S. Bryce and was released April 26th!
This book is told in two timelines. In 1968 we meet Frankie in Chicago as she’s about to run away from her abusive husband. She’s with her Aunt Daisy and she doesn’t really know her very well. The other timeline takes place in 1928, Los Angeles, with Daisy’s story as she works at a new hotel for the African-American elite.
❤️Review❤️
This is my second book by Denny S. Bryce and they’ve both been 5 stars! I love books told with dual timelines. This book had the glitz and glamour of L.A, but also the grit and seriousness with the a woman breaking away from domestic violence. The book is extremely well researched for both perspectives. Each woman faced her own problems in a strong way even when you can feel the danger coming right off of the page. Family is important to both of them and I loved seeing how both storylines ultimately came together in the end. I couldn’t get enough of both of their journeys and the epilogue was the perfect touch.
5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#InFaceOfTheSun #DennySBryce #BiblioStyle #Books #HistoricalFiction #BookGiveAway #Books #Bookstagram #BooksBooksBooks #NewBooks
June 11, 2022
In this fast-paced dual timeline novel we follow Frankie Saunders in 1968 Chicago, fleeing across country to escape an abusive marriage, aided by her aunt Daisy whose story in 1928 Los Angeles forms the contrasting backdrop to the current narrative. The story of women looking to start over against tremendous odds isn’t a new one but in Bryce’s hands it comes alive, as she blends in the rich history of both 1920’s Hollywood scandals and forty years later, the upheaval of the 1960’s civil rights movement. The story of these two women, struggling against odds to rebuild their lives, framed by the ever-present racism that’s a part of their everyday existence, is well-written and engaging. An intriguing historical women’s fiction from an author we’re sure to hear more from.
Thanks to NetGalley for my advanced reader copy.
Thanks to NetGalley for my advanced reader copy.
November 20, 2022
I am not sure how to describe this work. It is a mix of historical fiction, social criticism, racial history, and family drama. There is a lot to unpack in this story. The main character is (in the 1920s) an over-protective older siter who decades later (in the 1960s) is a vindictive aunt. This story exposes some of the structural social issues that shaped the first half of the 1900's and exposes many of the issues we still face in the 2020's.
Read
February 25, 2022I really enjoyed this story of two generations of estranged family overcoming distrust and misunderstanding to be a catalyst for the future. While not unsatisfied with the end, I would have love to have a bit more development of some of the key supporting characters. I think it would have made the ending more of a resolution rather than a wrap up. In general, I would recommend.
May 17, 2022
I really loved this author's earlier novel (Wild Women and the Blues) and I found this book only slightly less compelling. This story is split between 1928 and 1968 and follows two generations of a family and themes which connect them. I enjoyed the 1968 pieces a little more, but overall this book was a great read and I look forward to more from this author!
February 21, 2022
1928 City of Angels; 1968 Chicago. Two timelines, two women, two points of view. The backdrop of scandal, racism, crime, activism, war. Can an aging estranged aunt and her niece run from their pasts while securing their futures? For fans of Brit Bennett.
May 18, 2022
3.75 ⭐️
Love a good historical fiction with a little mystery. The dual timeline for this one got a little muddled in the beginning and left me a little confused but overall I enjoyed following Daisy and Frankie’s timelines.
Love a good historical fiction with a little mystery. The dual timeline for this one got a little muddled in the beginning and left me a little confused but overall I enjoyed following Daisy and Frankie’s timelines.
July 7, 2022
Thank you for another Goodreads give away. Generational story revolving around one African American family and how issues of race and tragedy impact their lives. Good historical fiction. Cover art should change the car to the Mustang referred to in the book.
January 28, 2023
As I grow my love of historical fiction, I come to find there are certain things I expect and need from a book in this genre.
As I read, I kept thinking when are we getting to the meat and potatoes. The book transports us to the 1920s and 1960s but I wasn’t immersed in it per se. The time jumps were obviously a crucial factor in the story, but I found myself getting bored when it came to both. I loved that there were dual timelines, but there were parts left out about Daisy’s past that made her the sassy, loveable auntie she was in the present. Thus, the lines were blurred I couldn’t tell if I was reading about Henrietta (Frankie’s mother) or Daisy in 1968 because they sounded the exact same based off what was presented in the 1920s.
Frankie’s character grew stronger as the book went on, but once again I would’ve liked to see more connections made, like a flashback to her younger years with Jackson, or more on her relationship with Henrietta so that the story could come together cohesively at the end. It didn’t for me.
SB: What was the purpose of the white man (Tobey)? There wasn’t much significance to his character and it was almost white saviorish. If you’ve read or plan to read you tell me.
*Back to review*
Bryce presents us an opportunity to celebrate Black excellence in the 20s as well as experience revenge, fame, love, and misunderstandings. This book isn’t necessarily bad but it’s not that good either. I feel like it was a puzzle that had most of the connecting pieces, but the important pieces were missing somewhere in the couch.
3.75⭐️
As I read, I kept thinking when are we getting to the meat and potatoes. The book transports us to the 1920s and 1960s but I wasn’t immersed in it per se. The time jumps were obviously a crucial factor in the story, but I found myself getting bored when it came to both. I loved that there were dual timelines, but there were parts left out about Daisy’s past that made her the sassy, loveable auntie she was in the present. Thus, the lines were blurred I couldn’t tell if I was reading about Henrietta (Frankie’s mother) or Daisy in 1968 because they sounded the exact same based off what was presented in the 1920s.
Frankie’s character grew stronger as the book went on, but once again I would’ve liked to see more connections made, like a flashback to her younger years with Jackson, or more on her relationship with Henrietta so that the story could come together cohesively at the end. It didn’t for me.
SB: What was the purpose of the white man (Tobey)? There wasn’t much significance to his character and it was almost white saviorish. If you’ve read or plan to read you tell me.
*Back to review*
Bryce presents us an opportunity to celebrate Black excellence in the 20s as well as experience revenge, fame, love, and misunderstandings. This book isn’t necessarily bad but it’s not that good either. I feel like it was a puzzle that had most of the connecting pieces, but the important pieces were missing somewhere in the couch.
3.75⭐️
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