The Sable Cloak
This is a multi-generational story of the Jordan Sable family set in St. Louis, Missouri. By the 1930s, a pillar of the Black community, Jordan Sable, had established a first-rate funeral business and become an influential political boss. His nickname is the Black Mayor of St. Louis. His wife Sara, originally from South Carolina, runs the funeral home with tight organization and class. Together they have worked to raise the family’s social stature.
On all fronts, the Sables are a tight-knit, loving family. Subplots in the story revolve around extended members of the Sable family, and their existence is critical to the overall plot. After decades of successful living, Jordan and Sara’s life is complete. However, their 14-year-old daughter, Vivian, has been protected and sheltered from evil. Innocent Vivian falls for the first boy to show an interest in her. And she asks an older family member, Big Will, to tell her about boys. Big Will cautions her and tries to help keep her safe, but unforeseen consequences will alter the Sable family forever.
I found this story to be a fascinating look into the life of a complex and successful Southern Black family in a time when Jim Crow laws still held sway. The novel is well paced, each character stands on their own, and the subplots are superbly woven throughout the story to help bring the action to a satisfying ending. Recommended reading.
