The Martha Odyssey by Bonny Gable

 

Reviewed by Rita

Recently, I had the opportunity to read The Martha Odyssey by Bonny Gable for the Radio Bristol Book Club. From the very first paragraph, I found myself captivated by the narrative, which is set against the beautiful backdrop of Abingdon, Virginia, circa 1915. The story unfolds through the perspective of the young and somewhat awkward Beatrice Earle Damron, known as Bea, as she embarks on her journey at Martha Washington College for the first time. Bea has traveled to Abingdon from Clintwood, Virginia, where her father has reluctantly permitted her to attend one year of college before returning to their family farm.

While nervous about being away from home, Bea is excited to further her musical education in hopes of finding a more fascinating life outside of her Appalachian hometown. Bea has played piano from a very young age and is looking forward to the opportunities that a Martha College education will afford.

Upon getting her room assignment, Bea meets her next door neighbor, Ruby Pearl Atkins. Ruby is a drama student from Galax, Virginia with big dreams of her own, and enough spunk and confidence for her and Bea. This will come in handy throughout Bea's time at Martha College. I immediately related to Ruby and her charming over eagerness to befriend Bea and become her cheerleader from day one.

All incoming freshmen are assigned an upperclassman "mother" to guide them through their first year. Bea is paired with Varina Armstrong who is from an affluent Abingdon family and not thrilled being assigned to a "mountain girl" from Dickenson County. I could sense right away that there was going to be tension and drama between the two young ladies and I was not disappointed.

One the first day of class, there is a recital where Bea surprises every one with her performance of Chopin's "Fantaisie-Impromptu" without sheet music. It is soon all over campus that Bea can play circles around Varina. Varina does not take this very well, especially since it has been announced that there will be a competition at the end of the semester where a full scholarship to the Peabody Conservatory of Music in Baltimore, Maryland will be awarded. This sets up a rivalry between Bea and Varina that plays out throughout the semester.

I enjoyed the layers of suspense and mystery that was so prevalent in the story. There are social society initiations that explore the ghostly aspects of Martha College and Sinking Spring Cemetery. I don't want to give too much away, but some of the students may have used these rituals to torment their foes.

Another important character is a striking Native American blacksmith named Jonah, whom Bea encounters at a nearby stable during a stroll on a chilly Saturday morning. Visiting the stable becomes a regular distraction from the drama of the highly competitive atmosphere at the school. Initially visiting to spend time with the horses and ease her feelings of being homesick, but soon it is more than just the horses that draws her there. I really enjoyed watching these characters grow to trust one another. I also enjoyed the interactions between Bea and the horses which always gave her a sense of home.

There was so much to love about this book. From the well-developed characters to the immersive descriptions of the area, I felt transported to the world of Beatrice Earle Damron. This is by far my favorite book I have read this year. I look forward to more from this debut author.