Book Review: Dee Bostic’s “3000 Miles of Separation”

Dee Bostic, a medical technologist with extensive experience from Eastern Washington to the National Institutes of Health, draws on her unique perspective as an African American navigating predominantly White spaces in both Washington State and Washington D.C. to fuel her novel, 3000 Miles of Separation.

In 3000 Miles of Separation, Dee Bostic unfolds a profoundly emotional narrative of love, betrayal, and an arduous path to forgiveness.

The story is set in the intricate emotional terrain of Beverly, a young African American woman who feels abandoned by her first love. The novel delves into themes of heartbreak, single motherhood, and resilience. Beverly finds her life taking an unexpected turn after an unplanned pregnancy. Her relationship with Daryl, her high school sweetheart, catalyzes a series of emotional upheavals that compel Beverly to question her decisions and her entire future.

Beverly and Daryl’s relationship began in their teenage years, filled with the innocence and passion of young love. On prom night, in a moment of unbridled affection, Beverly becomes pregnant with their son, Ryan. Although the pregnancy was unplanned, Beverly believes Daryl’s promises to be there for her and their child. But Daryl decided to sign up for a three-year remote tour. Beverly hesitates but agrees with his decision, thinking it is for their future. Yet, as months go by, it becomes clear to her that Daryl hesitates to commit. Instead of stepping up to marry Beverly, he avoids the topic, making excuses that deepen Beverly’s doubts. The pain of facing pregnancy alone, significantly as an unmarried young woman, intensified by the judgment she encounters at her prenatal appointments. Beverly becomes the target of scornful looks and whispers at the hospital, where people quietly wonder why Daryl isn’t by her side.

After nearly three years of hoping that Daryl will finally fulfill his promises, Beverly is crushed when he returns from his military service and, instead of reuniting with her, cuts her and their son out of his life.

His abandonment devastates Beverly, and her heartbreak quickly turns into a fierce desire to protect Ryan further from disappointment. Beverly decides to disappear with her son and move to the place where she used to dream. She is determined that Daryl will never have a place in Ryan’s life. However, this choice, born from pain and fierce protectiveness, also leaves Beverly with unresolved feelings and wounds that time alone cannot heal.

As Ryan grows up, Beverly is forced to confront her past decisions. Ryan’s curiosity about his father starts to surface as he notices other children with two parents and asks questions that make Beverly revisit the memories she tried so hard to bury.  These questions leave her in a painful dilemma: should she tell Ryan about the father who abandoned them? Should opening up about Daryl’s betrayal be best for Ryan, or would it only add to the hurt? Beverly’s journey to make peace with her past – ultimately with Daryl – becomes a central theme as she struggles to understand her complex feelings of hurt, anger, and lingering love.

Bostic’s writing is gentle and honest, capturing the deep emotions of Beverly’s struggle as she tries to forgive, heal, and take on the responsibilities of motherhood. Ryan’s innocent questions about his father are incredibly touching and remind Beverly that she can’t completely escape her past. His curiosity makes her rethink her decisions, and she gradually starts to consider forgiveness – not only for Daryl but also for herself. Beverly’s journey toward forgiveness is long and hard, filled with moments of doubt, frustration, and unexpected hope.

In 3000 Miles of Separation, Bostic created a touching story beyond just heartbreak. It shows the strength of the human spirit and the lasting power of love, even when it’s painful. This novel is meaningful for anyone who has struggled with forgiveness, healing, or moving forward after loss. Beverly’s journey isn’t just about personal growth; it’s a reminder of how powerful love and inner strength can be, even in tough times.

Rating: 5/5

Grab a copy of 3000 Miles of Separation copy on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and ReadersMagnet Bookstore. Learn more about Dee Bostic by visiting her website at https://www.deebostic.com/.