Rebellion: A Novel

Dive into a century-spanning saga of family, fate, and rebellion with Molly Patterson's acclaimed debut novel, *Rebellion: A Novel*. This reprint edition, published by Harper Paperbacks, offers readers a chance to experience a powerful story praised by Claire Vaye Watkins (author of *Gold Fame Citrus*) as "a revelatory, immersive miracle. Ambitious in scope and exacting in its language, Rebellion becomes a grand exploration of fate and circumstance. *Rebellion* intricately weaves together the lives of three women across generations, connected by blood, land, and the enduring complexities of the relationship between China and America. The novel opens in 1890 with Addie, a young missionary who travels to Lu-cho Fu, China, with idealistic dreams of making a difference. However, her encounter with Poppy, a modern and independent woman, sparks a profound transformation, challenging Addie's beliefs and setting her on a path that diverges sharply from her intended one. Back in America, Addie's sister Louisa grapples with the constraints of domestic life as a farmer's wife, her quiet existence disrupted by the unsettling news from overseas and the growing sense that Addie's life has taken a dramatic turn. The narrative then jumps to 1958, where Louisa's daughter, Hazel, struggles to hold her family and farm together in the wake of her husband's sudden death. As Hazel navigates her grief, she finds unexpected solace and connection with the neighboring Hughes family, discovering the many faces of loss and the resilience of the human spirit. The novel explores the themes of inheritance, loss, and the evolving role of women in post-war America. Finally, *Rebellion* lands in the present day, focusing on Juanlan, who returns to her rapidly changing hometown in China after facing setbacks in her own life. Burdened by familial obligations and feeling stagnant amidst the progress around her, Juanlan embarks on a risky affair, searching for a spark of passion and purpose in a world that seems to have left her behind. Her story highlights the tensions between tradition and modernity, family duty and personal desire, in contemporary China. Molly Patterson masterfully interweaves these three narratives, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected lives. The novel explores themes of cultural exchange, the impact of historical events on individual lives, and the universal desire for self-discovery. Readers will be captivated by the vivid descriptions of both rural America and China, and by the compelling characters who grapple with their own destinies against the backdrop of a changing world. *Rebellion* is a beautifully written and thought-provoking novel that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. Perfect for fans of historical fiction, literary fiction, and stories about family and identity. Prepare to be swept away by this unforgettable exploration of compassion, resilience, and the enduring power of the human spirit. Patterson's writing is both lyrical and precise, creating a truly immersive reading experience. This is a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of the human heart and the ties that bind us across time and cultures. With 560 pages of engrossing storytelling, *Rebellion* is a substantial and satisfying read.