Review of Junie by Erin Crosby Eckstine
While scrolling through NetGalley, I stumbled upon Junie by Erin Crosby Eckstine, and something about the haunting cover and the promise of a ghost story set against a pre-Civil War backdrop pulled me in instantly. As someone who revels in both literary fiction and historical narratives, I was eager to discover how Eckstine would weave the supernatural into the complexities of life on a plantation. Little did I know that this novel would not only captivate me but also sit heavily within my heart long after the final page.
Set in Alabama, Junie follows a sixteen-year-old girl, Junie, who works as a housemaid on the Bellereine Plantation. Having recently lost her beloved sister, Minnie, under tragic circumstances, Junie’s life is woven with threads of grief and haunting memories. When Minnie’s ghost begins to call from the woods, urging her sister to complete three vital tasks, we are thrust into a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the daunting realities of a society steeped in oppression. Eckstine’s characterization shines brightly from the very beginning, capturing the innocence of childhood as Junie grapples with the daunting decisions laid before her.
What struck me most about Eckstine’s writing style was her ability to create an immersive and emotional tapestry. The prose, rich and lyrical, transports you to a world where every word resonates with the weight of historical truths. The pacing feels just right for such an intense narrative, allowing moments of tension to build effectively while still granting the reader moments of reflective calmness. As Junie muses, “It’s what we can choose that makes this life special,” I found myself pondering the extraordinary strength found in the mundane choices we make—a beautiful encapsulation of Eckstine’s thematic explorations.
The juxtaposition of grief and hope laces throughout Junie., making the moments of romance amidst despair shine brightly. Junie’s relationship with Violet, a fellow teen navigating her own struggles, adds layers to our understanding of friendship and trust. Eckstine captures intricate, high-stakes emotional investment as Junie learns to navigate love in the unlikeliest of circumstances. One quote that stood out to me, “There’s a life in everything, even if you have to squeeze in to find it,” perfectly encapsulates the resilience of the human spirit.
However, what truly makes this book impactful is its unflinching portrayal of brutality and oppression—Eckstine does not shy away from revealing the horrors faced by enslaved people during this time, and the reality is both haunting and necessary. Domestic abuse, violence, and the constant threat of loss create a sense of urgency that hangs heavily in the air, yet amidst this darkness, glimmers of love and human connection illuminate the page.
As I turned the last page of Junie, I was left with a profound sense of reflection. This novel speaks to those who appreciate ghost stories that carry weight beyond mere hauntings, and it will undoubtedly resonate with fans of works like Toni Morrison’s Beloved or Octavia Butler’s Kindred. Erin Crosby Eckstine has crafted a haunting masterpiece that is arresting, deeply affecting, and beautifully written—a true testament to resilience in the face of overwhelming sorrow.
If you’re ready for a conversation that lingers long after reading, Junie promises a broken heart, an enriching experience, and perhaps a bookish hangover that reminds us of the beauty—and pain—of life’s river. Keep your favorite cozy blanket nearby; you’ll need it.