A review by serendipitysbooks
Invisible Life by E. Lynn Harris

emotional reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

 Invisible Life was first published in 1991 and is the story of Raymond Tyler who, as a college student, has an affair with another Black man. He moves to New York and begins a successful career as a lawyer. He dates women, one seriously, but also has clandestine relationships with men. When he is at least partially honest with a girlfriend and his parents about his bisexuality, their disapproval is clear. This book does feel rather dated in terms of its terminology and attitudes, but was a useful read as a sort of historic time capsule. The AIDS epidemic casts a shadow and takes an unexpected toll prompting Ray to make some difficult decisions. Overall I found this to be a sad read about a man who struggled to fully accept himself and be accepted by those closest to him. While much has changed I suspect in some communities Ray’s experiences will feel current rather than historic. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings