Mother's Day in the Empire State

Or, an Answer to the Arraignment of Women (Living in Free-Grace, Book 3)

De: Constantia Munda

Narrado por: Joana Garcia

Constantia Connie Munda is a multitalented author and illustrator who brings a unique perspective to her writing drawing from her extensive experience in the military. Drawing inspiration from the original intent of Mother's Day by Anna Jarvis in 1906 as an antiwar holiday, the novel challenges the sentimentalized view of motherhood propagated by modern society. The novel provides a raw unflinching look at the challenges faced by American children today.

Set in the fictional town of Allegheny in the New York Empire State, Connie Munda (a mother and veteran military officer turned Child Protection Services officer) investigates two grandmothers accused of child abuse.

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©2024 Free-Grace Press (P)2024 Free-Grace Press

Haunting, Captivating

Inspired by Anna Jarvis’s original 1906 vision of Mother’s Day as an antiwar observance, this novel strips away the overly sentimental view of motherhood often seen today. It offers a stark, honest look at the struggles facing children in modern America. Set in the fictional town of Allegheny, New York, the story follows Connie Munda—a mother, military veteran, and now Child Protection Services officer—as she investigates two grandmothers accused of child abuse.

The author, Constantia Munda, masterfully weaves a powerful story that lays bare the realities of motherhood in America and calls for real societal change. She blends poetry with factual accounts, creating a unique rhythm that pulls you in emotionally while keeping the narrative grounded. Told in a clever deposition-style format, the writing feels both intimate and investigative. Munda skillfully explores the tug-of-war between logic and emotion in relationships, responsibilities, and the hopes we cling to. The tale of two grandmothers—accused of child abuse yet living in vastly different economic worlds—is utterly captivating. And her portrayal of a CPS officer, shown not just as an enforcer but as a mother and military member, adds another rich, human layer to this compelling read.

The narrator, Joana Garcia, delivers a strong performance, bringing this story to life. She nails the emotion, tension, and raw struggle behind the tale, giving Connie Munda a voice full of strength and determination. Her pacing feels natural—steady, with just the right pauses to let the weight of the story sink in. Garcia keeps you hooked from start to finish, making it one of those audiobooks that’s hard to step away from.

Munda’s revelation of the true purpose behind “Mother’s Day” is a captivating and thought-provoking twist that elevates the narrative. The surprising disclosure that it serves as a rallying cry for mothers to unite against a political force perpetuating war and demanding the sacrifice of their children adds profound depth to the story. This powerful message makes the book a must-read, leaving readers both moved and inspired to reflect on the strength of collective resistance.

There were no issues with the quality or production of this audiobook.