Tia Williams’ Seven Days in June
After a week-long affair that impacted both of their lives, two writers reunite 15 years later. Eva Mercy is the successful author of a long-running erotica series with a large fan base, but as the deadline for the 15th book approaches, she admits she’s running out of ideas.
She can’t afford to stop the series, which supports her and her 12-year-old daughter, Audre, so her ambition of studying and documenting the stories of her ancestors, the Louisiana Creole women, is put on wait.
She had a startling public reunion with Shane Hall, the reclusive, award-winning author of four novels of literary fiction, during a Brooklyn literary panel.
Shane and Eva enjoyed one week of passionate connection as seniors in high school; they exposed to each other their raw agony and the harsh coping methods (addiction, cutting) they used to survive.
Shane has been clean for two years, and Eva has finally found a doctor who treats her persistent, excruciating migraines properly.
Williams juxtaposes Shane and Eva as adults with their terrifyingly out-of-control young selves with chapters from the past scattered throughout the story.
Their reunion feels like going home, but it also indicates that they may lack the skills necessary to maintain a successful adult relationship.
Williams’ work is a tour de force, portraying Eva’s experience as a member of Brooklyn’s Black literati, her desire to shield her daughter from generational trauma while yet appreciating their ancestors, and the ways in which fate pulls individuals together.
The novel’s structure is complicated but eventually satisfying, providing a portrayal of a beautifully nuanced universe.
Themes of Seven Days in June
Tia Williams’ novel “Seven Days in June” addresses a variety of issues centered on love, relationships, and self-discovery. The following are some of the book’s primary themes:
Second chances: The novel addresses the concept of second chances in love and life, as Eva and Shane reconnect after 15 years apart and retry their romance.
Eva is a single mother who strives to manage her career as a writer with her motherly responsibilities. The book dives into the difficulties and joys of motherhood, as well as the value of family.
Trauma and healing: Both Eva and Shane have been through painful occurrences in their lives, which continue to influence them. The narrative delves into how they deal with and process their pain, as well as how they find healing and forgiveness.
Addiction and mental health difficulties: Eva and Shane both suffer from addiction and mental health issues. The story discusses how these challenges affect their lives and relationships, as well as the value of seeking treatment and support.
Writing and creativity: Although both Eva and Shane are accomplished writers who must navigate the world of publishing and cope with the rigors of their careers, the story also explores the creative process and the hardships of being a writer.
Ultimately, “Seven Days in June” is a rich and sophisticated investigation of love, life, and the human experience, with relevant and thought-provoking topics.
Characters in “Seven Days in June”
Tia Williams’ “Seven Days in June” has multiple primary characters, each with their own distinct personalities, backstories, and motivations.
Eva Mercy is the protagonist and a well-known erotica author. Eva is a single mother with a teenage daughter who strives to match her motherly duties with her profession. Shane Hall has a history with her, and the tale follows her struggle to reunite with him and confront her past.
Shane Hall is a critically praised literary novelist with a reputation for being tough to collaborate with. He has a difficult past and is battling addiction and mental health problems. Shane is also Eva’s love interest, and their rekindled passion is central to the story.
Audre: Eva’s adolescent daughter who is intelligent, clever, and loves poetry. Audre supports her mother’s writing profession, but she is struggling with her own identity and fears.
Eva’s best friend and successful fashion designer, Naima. Throughout the narrative, Naima is bold and outspoken, offering Eva support and guidance.
Lawrence: Eva’s ex-boyfriend and Audre’s father. Lawrence is a wealthy lawyer who is attempting to reunite with his daughter after being gone for several years.
Celine: Shane’s literary agent who is determined to keep Shane’s career on track. Celine is described as cold and calculating, and she frequently disagrees with Shane.
Shane’s sister, Solange, is also battling addiction. Solange has had a difficult past and has been estranged from Shane for some years.
Each of these characters is crucial in the novel, and their interactions and connections contribute to propelling the plot along and exploring the book’s themes.