Under the Magnolias by T. I. Lowe

I am impressed with T. I. Lowe’s latest book, Under the Magnolias,  Lowe has progressed to the major league with this Southern story. Lowe’s earlier Carolina Coast series is sweet, but Under the Magnolias is a tough, gritty family story that will stick with you. If you liked Where the Crawdads Sing, this is a must read. This heart-wrenching story will get you rooting for the kids living on a tobacco farm in South Carolina in the 1980s.

Austin Foster is forced to grow up at age 13 when her mother dies giving birth to twins. Austin is left the responsibilities of raising six siblings, running the house and helping her father, Dave Foster. Her father battles the darkness of a mental health issue while trying to make a living off his tobacco farm. When Vance Cumberland, the mayor’s son, shows interest in Austin, she keeps him at arm’s length, afraid he will uncover the truth of her father’s problems. Loyalty to her family and protecting her siblings are more important than following her heart.

Her father also preaches in a small chapel on the property where he always welcomes everyone, regardless of what they’ve done in the past or what the town folk think of them. This brings a colorful group of people into the congregation and their lives. Part of enjoying this story is uncovering who these people are and what they’ve been through in life. Lowe demonstrates the weakness of people in the church and the strength they get from supporting each other and from trusting God. The book reminds us that no one’s life is perfect. Even Christians need support, including the preacher.

Under the Magnolias is full of tension from taking on tough topics including mental illness, racism, ostracism, pride, faith and support systems, but it ends with hope and healing without making the ending unrealistically perfect.

I truly feel this book is a huge jumping point in Lowe’s career, placing her in a different league of writers. The book comes out May 4, 2021. If you think you’ll buy this one, help the author out by pre-ordering now or buying in the first week. This makes a huge difference to the author. If you’re reading this review after that time, it’s still a book worth reading.