Sugar: A Novel

Bernice L. McFadden

“Sugar” by Bernice L. McFadden is a deeply emotional novel set in the 1950s in a small Southern town. The story revolves around two women—Sugar Lacey, a prostitute with a troubled past, and Pearl Taylor, a grieving housewife mourning the tragic death of her daughter. When Sugar moves into Pearl’s neighborhood, she is met with disdain and judgment from the townspeople due to her reputation. However, Pearl, despite her own reservations, reaches out to Sugar and an unexpected friendship blossoms between them.

As they navigate their own emotional wounds, both women find solace in each other, despite their contrasting backgrounds. Through their relationship, the novel explores themes of grief, redemption, friendship, and the harsh realities of societal judgment. Pearl learns more about Sugar’s difficult past, and in doing so, gains a new perspective on her own life. Meanwhile, Sugar discovers a sense of belonging she had long sought. The story is a poignant exploration of the complexities of human relationships, healing, and the power of compassion.