Iphigenia Murphy, a Coming-of-Age Novel Review

A coming-of-age novel set in Queens, Iphigenia Murphy tells the tale of one young woman and the people who become important in her life. The story hits on many themes that may be challenging for readers — sexual assault, transgender topics, sexuality, self-discovery, homelessness, drug abuse, loss of family — in a way that cuts to the heart.

Sara Hosey does a beautiful job of painting the settings for readers and giving us a real look into the soul of a young woman who’s seen too much and known more than a girl should ever know. Being someone who’s experienced some trauma, I found it a little hard to read in places, but ultimately, it was worth the journey.

I loved experiencing Forest Park with Iffy, getting to know characters that I might not give a second glance in real life, and meeting Angel.

Relating to this girl, Iffy — who’s nothing like me in almost any way — filled me with compassion for her and for the real-life people who have stories so similar that your heart breaks as you recognize them.

Despite being a rather heavy read, there are lots of lovely moments. You cheer Iffy on in her triumphs, relating to her strength, and cower with her in her weaknesses and fears. You love her mother and hate Marcos. You delight with her in Corrine, despite the messed-up life the girl has led and how desperately you want her to be well. You adore Angel and thank God for Ann.

I wouldn’t recommend this book for everyone. If you’ve got some nasty baggage and haven’t fully dealt with it, this book might be too much for you. If you’re on the same journey, it could well be a healing moment in the process, though.

Far from a light read, Iphigenia Murphy is a moving novel that deserves to be a film starring some spunky young lady with bright eyes and the stoic-emotional movement of Anya Taylor-Joy.

Looking for more books to read? Check out some other reviews:

• Mimi Lee Cracks the Code — Cozy Mystery Review
• The Night Library at Sternendach — Dark Verse Novel Review
• The Sam Applewhite trilogy — Sealfinger, Doggerland, Sandraker – Trilogy Book Reviews
• And Jilly Came Tumbling After — a Book Review
• Minister of Chance — a Book Review

Rita Mock-Pike

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Editor-in-Chief of The MockingOwl Roost, Rita Mock-Pike is the granddaughter of aviatrix, Jerrie Mock, first woman to pilot an airplane solo around the world. Rita has found inspiration from her grandmother’s life and flight and pursued many of her own dreams in theatre, podcasting, novel writing, and cooking up delicious food from around the world. She now writes on food, travel, pets, faith, and the arts. She’s happily married to Matt, and faithfully serves the very fluffy kitten queen, Lady Stardust.

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