THE SECOND LIFE OF MIRIELLE WEST by Amanda Skenandore

This tragic story with a (relatively) happy ending follows the wife of a Hollywood star and mother to small children as she battles leprosy. In the 1920’s no cure is known for the disease and MIrielle is sent to The United States Marine Hospital Louisiana. Carville,as the leprosarium is known, is home to sufferers of Hanson’s Disease until they are cured and can return to normal society. Mirielle quickly discovers that Carville is akin to prison. When she attempts to steal out, she falls, breaks her arm, and then is sent to “Jail” for 30 days. The story follows her as she attempts to settle in to Carville, keep in touch with her two small daughters and husband, and prevent anyone “on the outside” from learning of her disease. Carville is presented is all its promise and despair. Based on true incidents and people SECOND LIFE is an intriguing and enlightening tale well worth your time. 5 of 5 stars