Loving Donovan

By: Bernice L. McFadden, Terry McMillan - introduction

Narrated by: Robin Miles

Two-time Hurston/Wright Legacy Award finalist Bernice L. McFadden has also been twice honored by the Black Caucus of the American Library Association. One of Library Journal's 25 Key Indie Fiction Titles, this heartbreaking tale follows two damaged but hopeful souls as they struggle to find love despite the ravages of their pasts.

©2003, 2015 Bernice L. McFadden (P)2003, 2015 Recorded Books

Warning...this is not a fairy tale

Although many readers are complaining about the open ending, I can understand why the reader was left suspended this way. In real life, most breakups leave one or both parties hurt and filled with questions that may never be answered. Closure isn't about getting all your questions answered. You may not even wanted the truth you are seeking. Closure and healing is a merry-go-round and it takes time. It isn't quick and painless. For Campbell, she needed her time to mourn. The first steps to true healing was the ending. Donovan may never be healed. He cannot depend on others to heal him. The sexual abuse experienced as a child can turn one into a cold monster or unfeeling robot. The temporary reprieve Campbell provided, was not a healing. Donovan came from weak and dysfunctional people. Not a surprise he did what he did. You cannot love someone out of their trauma. They have to be willing to fight to destroy those things holding them back from healing. This was a wonderful story that depicts the reality of life. Wonderful job by Ms. McFadden!

So Heavy

I did not read the synopsis so didn't know what to expect. I had a hard time in the beginning trying to figure out who these characters were but I think that was more of an ADHD problem.

I am so glad that I continued with the book. It was some very heavy topics covered that were hard to listen to especially since McFadden does so well with making the reader feel so connected to each character.

I really wanted a different outcome but understand that life and trauma also exists within fiction. Loved it.

terrible ending

Loved the story line but the ending left me extremely disappointed and wondering what happened to the Donovan? Not a great way to end an otherwise great book!

Good story and realistic

I like how detailed the story was, I disliked the ending but you could predict what was going to happen

Okay

It was okay. I am not fond on the way it ended. I guess I was looking for a happy ending for Campbell.