Ophelia, sweet woman that she was ended up having a scandalous affair and baby with her Uncle Avery while her Aunt Rachel was in the hospital having "female" surgery. Aunt Witchy Poo Rachel, cold as ice and semi-religious had skeletons of her own which Uncle Willie let out of the bag to Belly, who proceeded to read her the riot act at a "reconciliation" dinner with her and Avery. What Belly learns through all of this is that things aren't always what they seem and that love is a little more complicated than first comes love, second comes marriage third comes Susie with the baby carriage.
Burnett Smith's story of small town scandal and family secrets will strike a cord with anyone familiar with small town mores.
Miss Ophelia by Mary Burnett Smith is an enchanting and intriguing debut novel. The storyline has a superb plot, awesome characterization, wonderful pacing and vivid imagery. The characters are engaging and memorable including the secondary characters. Who can forget Uncle Willie! What a delightful character full of wisdom and insightful lessons. Everyone should know an Uncle Willie. Miss Ophelia was a sad, sweet and funny read filled with humor, subtlety and sensitivity. I enjoyed this book immensely and especially liked that it was told in the voice of eleven year old Belly. It's a wonderful story that provides great insight into small town living and family secrets....as seen through the eyes of a child.