In West Mills

D’Shawn Charles Winslow

“In West Mills” by D’Shawn Charles Winslow is a heartfelt novel set in a small North Carolina community from the 1940s to the 1980s, centering on the life of Azalea “Knot” Centre, a fiercely independent woman who defies societal expectations. Knot, who loves literature and alcohol in equal measure, is determined to live life on her own terms, even if it means isolating herself from the conservative values of her small town. Her closest confidant is her neighbor Otis Lee, who, along with his wife, tries to guide Knot toward a more stable path. However, Knot’s stubbornness and personal choices, including her tumultuous romantic relationships and secret pregnancies, complicate her life and distance her from the community.

As the years pass, Knot’s decisions have lasting effects on those around her, particularly Otis Lee and his family. The novel explores themes of love, family, forgiveness, and redemption, offering a portrait of a woman who is both flawed and fiercely strong, as well as the impact of her unconventional life on the tight-knit West Mills community. Through vivid characters and rich storytelling, “In West Mills” delves into the complexities of relationships, community bonds, and the human need for connection and acceptance, while also highlighting the choices that define a person’s legacy.