DNA: Do Not Assume by Lynne Merrill

DNA: Do Not Assume is a true story about betrayal and discovery; hate and loving resiliency; and, finally—truthful reconciliation. The first chapter begins with a conversation between the author and her sister who relates an undeniable scientific fact. They do not share paternal DNA. This new knowledge stirs up rumors and gossip from decades past, and the buried question, "Who is he?" once again springs to life. Back then, the main character, Drusilla, could never provide a satisfactory answer to squelch those inquiring minds. Now the author is left to find out, seventeen years after her mother's death, the truth; to ask and answer the question from long ago— "Who is he?" Inside the pages of this three-part story is the answer as well as the process of finding lost family. Part one is a biography about Drusilla's illicit romance, told as the author uncovered the secret her parents took their graves. The author introduces her parents but refers to her father throughout this part only as "he," placing all references to him or he in italics. Part two is an autobiographical story of the author and her life with Drusilla but not just the day in, the day out, but the when and how Drusilla's story began unfolding as one lie piled upon another in Drusilla's effort to keep hidden her shame and sorrow. It also lovingly reveals the author's spiritual journey; a journey which held a mother and daughter's love together up to and beyond Drusilla's death. The last and final part is a memoir, written alternately by two first cousins found through a DNA website. It gives the solution to the authors' puzzle and reveals his long-hidden name!