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The Stockwell Letters
From USA Today best-selling and multi-award-winning author Jacqueline Friedland comes a gripping work of fiction based on the true story of female abolitionist Ann Phillips and her connection to Anthony Burns, a young man who briefly escaped American slavery and rocked the nation with his astoundingly heroic story.
A passionate advocate of abolition from her earliest years, Ann’s activism was derailed just before her twenty-fourth birthday, when she fell sick with a mysterious illness. In order to protect her fragile health, her husband, the famous abolitionist Wendell Phillips, forbade her from joining any further anti-slavery outings. Even so, when fugitive slave Anthony Burns is apprehended in Boston, Ann is determined to help him, no matter what it costs her.
With a particular focus on the predicament of nineteenth-century women who wanted to effect change despite the restrictions society imposed on them, The Stockwell Letters — takes a deep dive into the harrowing conditions of the antebellum South and the obstacles faced by abolitionists who fought tirelessly to eradicate slavery. A fast-paced, arresting recounting of America’s not-so-distant history— the story will stay with readers long after the final page.
A passionate advocate of abolition from her earliest years, Ann’s activism was derailed just before her twenty-fourth birthday, when she fell sick with a mysterious illness. In order to protect her fragile health, her husband, the famous abolitionist Wendell Phillips, forbade her from joining any further anti-slavery outings. Even so, when fugitive slave Anthony Burns is apprehended in Boston, Ann is determined to help him, no matter what it costs her.
With a particular focus on the predicament of nineteenth-century women who wanted to effect change despite the restrictions society imposed on them, The Stockwell Letters — takes a deep dive into the harrowing conditions of the antebellum South and the obstacles faced by abolitionists who fought tirelessly to eradicate slavery. A fast-paced, arresting recounting of America’s not-so-distant history— the story will stay with readers long after the final page.
328 pages, Paperback
First published August 29, 2023
25 people are currently reading
9169 people want to read
About the author
Jacqueline Friedland
5 books496 followersJacqueline Friedland is the author of award-winning novels Trouble the Water and He Gets That From Me. A graduate of The University of Pennsylvania and NYU Law School, she practiced as an attorney before returning to school to receive her MFA from Sarah Lawrence College. She lives in New York with her husband and four children. For contact info, tour dates, and book clubs please visit www.jacquelinefriedland.com and Instagram @jackiefriedland
Her new novel, Counting Backwards, will be out on March 11, 2025.
Her new novel, Counting Backwards, will be out on March 11, 2025.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
August 24, 2023
Ann Greene is an abolitionist, she becomes ill just before her twenty-fourth birthday, and her beau Wendell Phillips proposes and they marry. Her illness left the doctors at the time puzzled, she suffered from extreme fatigue and pain and was often bed ridden.
Wendell was an attorney, he quit his job to focus on speaking out against slavery, and he was a member of the American Anti-slavery Society and the Boston Vigilance Committee. Both Ann and Wendell didn’t eat sugar or wear clothes made from cotton as it was grown and harvested by slave labor.
Anthony Burns is a slave in Richmond, his owner leases him out to other people, at the time of his escape he's working for an apothecary, Master Millspaugh and he hides in the bowels of a ship and make his way to Boston, Massachusetts. Anthony is eventually arrested, imprisoned and the court case that follows is a farce, despite him having legal representation and due to the fugitive slave act. People take to the streets and protest, the national guard is brought in and Anthony is doomed.
The narrative looks at the plight of young southern women, many are only teenagers and when they become brides too much older men. The character in the novel Colette Randolph is ruled by her husband, a beautiful decoration for his home and under pressure to produce as many children as she can and it's a form of bondage.
I received a copy of The Stockwell Letters from Ingram Publisher Services and Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. The author Jacqueline Friedland uses real and fictional characters to call attention to the evils of slavery in the South and the abolitionists in the Northern states, men like Wendell Phillips who championed for the enslaved, downtrodden, persecuted and rights of women. Putting their own lives in danger, social status, relationships and funded the cause.
Anthony Burns was a young man who in his twenty two years, was branded and had his right hand broken and a slave. He was said to be a smart, kind, godly and industrious and Ms. Friedland portrays this in her novel and how other influential African American people including Reverend Leonard and Octavia Grimes supported runaways like Anthony. Four stars from me, I like historical fiction based on real people and this is both a well written and thought provoking book.
Wendell was an attorney, he quit his job to focus on speaking out against slavery, and he was a member of the American Anti-slavery Society and the Boston Vigilance Committee. Both Ann and Wendell didn’t eat sugar or wear clothes made from cotton as it was grown and harvested by slave labor.
Anthony Burns is a slave in Richmond, his owner leases him out to other people, at the time of his escape he's working for an apothecary, Master Millspaugh and he hides in the bowels of a ship and make his way to Boston, Massachusetts. Anthony is eventually arrested, imprisoned and the court case that follows is a farce, despite him having legal representation and due to the fugitive slave act. People take to the streets and protest, the national guard is brought in and Anthony is doomed.
The narrative looks at the plight of young southern women, many are only teenagers and when they become brides too much older men. The character in the novel Colette Randolph is ruled by her husband, a beautiful decoration for his home and under pressure to produce as many children as she can and it's a form of bondage.
I received a copy of The Stockwell Letters from Ingram Publisher Services and Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. The author Jacqueline Friedland uses real and fictional characters to call attention to the evils of slavery in the South and the abolitionists in the Northern states, men like Wendell Phillips who championed for the enslaved, downtrodden, persecuted and rights of women. Putting their own lives in danger, social status, relationships and funded the cause.
Anthony Burns was a young man who in his twenty two years, was branded and had his right hand broken and a slave. He was said to be a smart, kind, godly and industrious and Ms. Friedland portrays this in her novel and how other influential African American people including Reverend Leonard and Octavia Grimes supported runaways like Anthony. Four stars from me, I like historical fiction based on real people and this is both a well written and thought provoking book.
September 4, 2023
This was such an interesting and well researched book. Really well written and was never a dull moment. It's about the abolitionist movement in Boston and how they helped slaves escape the slavery in the south. It was actually quite heartbreaking. It's a historical Fiction based on a true story and it's definitely difficult to read. In this book you read about fugitive slave Anthony Burns. Ann Phillips is a white abolitionist who goes above all to help him escape only to have him captured again. Wow! So sad. I found all the characters really added to the story and I really was drawn into this one. Definitely recommend!
Out now.
Thank you to the author and Suzy Approved Book Tours for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Out now.
Thank you to the author and Suzy Approved Book Tours for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 24, 2023
Historical fiction is not my favorite genre, but I will say this The Stockwell Letters was a good read and very well written. The endless research was most defiantly done for this book. Glad I read this one.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
August 6, 2023
A true story of abolitionist Ann Phillips and how she assists Anthony Burns, a slave who escaped only to be taken back into slavery.
This was a great story that, while it’s based on a true story, read completely like an entertaining fiction. I enjoyed reading about abolitionists and the movement within Boston. I liked all the different perspectives and found them all meaningful on their own way.
“Now that he had experienced life as a free man, commander of his own destiny, how could he ever survive in bondage again?”
The Stockwell Letters comes out 8/29.
This was a great story that, while it’s based on a true story, read completely like an entertaining fiction. I enjoyed reading about abolitionists and the movement within Boston. I liked all the different perspectives and found them all meaningful on their own way.
“Now that he had experienced life as a free man, commander of his own destiny, how could he ever survive in bondage again?”
The Stockwell Letters comes out 8/29.
October 19, 2025
It was interesting and I enjoyed for a while but later the book felt a little school-age-like.
October 16, 2024
Anthony Burns, an enslaved man who dared to read, write and seek an education. . .he was a successful fugitive, stayed focused as he gained a little ground and then was pulled back, imprisoned, tortured, and from time to time was known to preach a good sermon. Living for a time as a free person in Massachusetts, he was sent back to Southern slavers. This book depicts these treacheries society inflicted on his body, mind and spirit. Difficult reading, considering, processing - how much more so to live it, as did so many for centuries
before
Lincoln made his wonderous Proclamation.
This reimagining of Anthony's life is well-researched and gives good references in the end papers for those who want to delve deeper - always a plus for this reader.
Abolitionists aplenty here - non-fictional mingled in with the fictional: Henry David Thoreau, William Lloyd Garrison, Richard Dana, Ann and Wendel Phillips, Octavia and Leonard Grimes, even PT Barnum has place in this stirring reminder that there was a movement that provided constant irritation to those holding hard to the status quo. Keep on pinching, biting, shouting, never let them forget that all is not well. . .change happens slowly, but happen it does.
This read re-opened windows of interest for me on this topic, and this author.
*A sincere thank you to Jacqueline Friedland, SparkPress, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.* #TheStockwellLetters #NetGalley
This reimagining of Anthony's life is well-researched and gives good references in the end papers for those who want to delve deeper - always a plus for this reader.
Abolitionists aplenty here - non-fictional mingled in with the fictional: Henry David Thoreau, William Lloyd Garrison, Richard Dana, Ann and Wendel Phillips, Octavia and Leonard Grimes, even PT Barnum has place in this stirring reminder that there was a movement that provided constant irritation to those holding hard to the status quo. Keep on pinching, biting, shouting, never let them forget that all is not well. . .change happens slowly, but happen it does.
This read re-opened windows of interest for me on this topic, and this author.
*A sincere thank you to Jacqueline Friedland, SparkPress, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.* #TheStockwellLetters #NetGalley
September 24, 2023
This novel is one of those that will stay with you for a long time. Anthony Burns, is a young man who escapes slavery for a short time, and unfortunately is caught and sent to a Lumpkin jail. I knew of this jail in Richmond with other books I had read and knew of the horrible conditions. He has a chance to experience freedom along with the worst of the worst.
Ann is an advocate of abolition and she and her husband Wendell Phillips, are involved in outings for anti-slavery gatherings. Unfortunately, Ann has a illness which makes her tired and unable to attend the outings, but she finds other ways to support the cause. She ends up teaching Anthony to read along with another slave, and when he is caught she makes her mission to help him.
The relationships in this novel were well-written and filled with emotion and I could feel the tension of each character and their surroundings. Thank you Suzy Approved books for having this novel sent my way from the author. I cannot wait to see what Friedland writes next.
Ann is an advocate of abolition and she and her husband Wendell Phillips, are involved in outings for anti-slavery gatherings. Unfortunately, Ann has a illness which makes her tired and unable to attend the outings, but she finds other ways to support the cause. She ends up teaching Anthony to read along with another slave, and when he is caught she makes her mission to help him.
The relationships in this novel were well-written and filled with emotion and I could feel the tension of each character and their surroundings. Thank you Suzy Approved books for having this novel sent my way from the author. I cannot wait to see what Friedland writes next.
August 15, 2023
How do I review a book with content that broke my heart?
The Stockwell Letters is historical fiction based on the real lives of a white female abolitionist and a Black man who escaped slavery in the south, only to find the north wasn’t as free as he’d thought.
I love that this book, in large part, focused on the women who worked quietly behind the scenes to eradicate slavery, not because they wanted to remain in the shadows, but because their gender gave them no choice. We see the perils of being Black and the limitations of being female in a country on the cusp of civil war.
The characters have a strong arc, with clear emotional growth, making them feel real and memorable.
Anthony Burns, the escaped slave at the heart of this story, came to life and hit me hard emotionally.
The author does a beautiful job of capturing and conveying the atmosphere, mood, dangers, and emotions of this tumultuous period in history.
*Thanks to Booksparks for the free copy!*
The Stockwell Letters is historical fiction based on the real lives of a white female abolitionist and a Black man who escaped slavery in the south, only to find the north wasn’t as free as he’d thought.
I love that this book, in large part, focused on the women who worked quietly behind the scenes to eradicate slavery, not because they wanted to remain in the shadows, but because their gender gave them no choice. We see the perils of being Black and the limitations of being female in a country on the cusp of civil war.
The characters have a strong arc, with clear emotional growth, making them feel real and memorable.
Anthony Burns, the escaped slave at the heart of this story, came to life and hit me hard emotionally.
The author does a beautiful job of capturing and conveying the atmosphere, mood, dangers, and emotions of this tumultuous period in history.
*Thanks to Booksparks for the free copy!*
August 23, 2023
Thank you to my partner, Suzy Approved Book Tours, and the author,l. I appreciate the gifted and signed paperback ARC, and I am leaving this review voluntarily!
1. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 - How is it that humankind ever saw fit to treat others the way slaves were treated. I triumph the workings of the abolitionists who fought for the freedoms that everyone should always have had. Parts of this story were very difficult to read and my heart hurt for Anthony and other slaves who went through similar things.
2. 𝐃𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐓𝐲𝐩𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐥𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 - And please do not think that I’m comparing these things as equals. Some of the women were essentially slaves to their husbands - baby makers and the like. I feel like this was quite evident when Colette’s servant, Delly, told her that she was finally free near the end of the story.
3. 𝐈𝐭 𝐃𝐨𝐞𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 - Even when a slave was able to find a master that was good to them, it still wasn’t enough because they deserved to be free. Anthony finds this out and feels it in his soul.
4. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐬 - These people should be held as some of our country’s greatest heroes. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 is a moving depiction of their fight in only a small part of that time. What Friedland has done is to bring the reader right into the hearts and souls of these heroes and the people that they fought for.
5. 𝐇𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐅𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 - Every time I read a historical fiction story, I am taken aback by the atrocities of our nation’s past. It seems that we as a nation should have learned lessons by now, and yet, we still see some of the same patterns come around. I truly wish we could learn from history as we should.
1. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 - How is it that humankind ever saw fit to treat others the way slaves were treated. I triumph the workings of the abolitionists who fought for the freedoms that everyone should always have had. Parts of this story were very difficult to read and my heart hurt for Anthony and other slaves who went through similar things.
2. 𝐃𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐓𝐲𝐩𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐥𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 - And please do not think that I’m comparing these things as equals. Some of the women were essentially slaves to their husbands - baby makers and the like. I feel like this was quite evident when Colette’s servant, Delly, told her that she was finally free near the end of the story.
3. 𝐈𝐭 𝐃𝐨𝐞𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 - Even when a slave was able to find a master that was good to them, it still wasn’t enough because they deserved to be free. Anthony finds this out and feels it in his soul.
4. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐬 - These people should be held as some of our country’s greatest heroes. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 is a moving depiction of their fight in only a small part of that time. What Friedland has done is to bring the reader right into the hearts and souls of these heroes and the people that they fought for.
5. 𝐇𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐅𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 - Every time I read a historical fiction story, I am taken aback by the atrocities of our nation’s past. It seems that we as a nation should have learned lessons by now, and yet, we still see some of the same patterns come around. I truly wish we could learn from history as we should.
July 31, 2023
While I'm not a huge reader of HF, I was seriously blown away by this book. Friedland has managed to break barriers as a multi-genre author and has done so seamlessly. There were moments in the book where I read lines aloud to my husband, utterly amazed at her voice, level of research, and layers of depth. Friedland brings to light a dark time in our history, and she does so with the extraordinary talent of some of the best writers of our time. This is one author I find myself saying to myself: I wish I could write like that. Just wow.
August 19, 2023
This was an amazing well written historical fiction story based on actual events! This book takes place before the Civil War , and it shows just how the North and the South view slavery and women’s rights differently.
Anthony Burns has been biding his time and plans his escape , he knows once he’s made it to the north he has escaped slavery. Slave Catchers are every where and are keeping watch, so when Anthony is arrested and accused of stealing, he has no idea what was is about to unfold and what his future looks like.
We meet abolitionist Ann Phillips she feels they are not doing enough to help the escaped slaves, but with the way the laws are written even being in the north states she can’t do much. So when she hears about Anthony Burns she feels like something must be done to help , so with the help of husband abolitionist Wendell Phillips, their mission is to do all they can is fight for his freedom no matter what the cost may be. I truly loved how the author author wrote from three different viewpoints it added so much to the story. I learned so much while reading this amazing story.
Anthony Burns has been biding his time and plans his escape , he knows once he’s made it to the north he has escaped slavery. Slave Catchers are every where and are keeping watch, so when Anthony is arrested and accused of stealing, he has no idea what was is about to unfold and what his future looks like.
We meet abolitionist Ann Phillips she feels they are not doing enough to help the escaped slaves, but with the way the laws are written even being in the north states she can’t do much. So when she hears about Anthony Burns she feels like something must be done to help , so with the help of husband abolitionist Wendell Phillips, their mission is to do all they can is fight for his freedom no matter what the cost may be. I truly loved how the author author wrote from three different viewpoints it added so much to the story. I learned so much while reading this amazing story.
September 23, 2023
TITLE: THE STOCKWELL LETTERS
AUTHOR: Jacqueline Friedland
PUB DATE: 08.29.2023 Now Available
Jacqueline Friedland is back to writing another well researched historical fiction novel since Trouble The Water, and it is fantastic!
This very timely story, though set during the antebellum south, explores the dark period of American History and the tireless works of abolitionists, especially a woman named Ann Phillips and her work the highly sensationalized story of fugitive slave Anthony Burns.
I love historical fiction writing like this because it’s so engaging and entertaining to read while also learning so much about the past - and the heroic stories of those that should never be forgotten, for their selfless acts of courage no matter the cost.
This fast paced story kept me turning those pages in this well written, well researched, based on real people and events, in a stunning work of historical fiction. I’m blown away. Truly loved this book.
AUTHOR: Jacqueline Friedland
PUB DATE: 08.29.2023 Now Available
Jacqueline Friedland is back to writing another well researched historical fiction novel since Trouble The Water, and it is fantastic!
This very timely story, though set during the antebellum south, explores the dark period of American History and the tireless works of abolitionists, especially a woman named Ann Phillips and her work the highly sensationalized story of fugitive slave Anthony Burns.
I love historical fiction writing like this because it’s so engaging and entertaining to read while also learning so much about the past - and the heroic stories of those that should never be forgotten, for their selfless acts of courage no matter the cost.
This fast paced story kept me turning those pages in this well written, well researched, based on real people and events, in a stunning work of historical fiction. I’m blown away. Truly loved this book.
May 7, 2025
This story weaves overt feminist sentiments amongst the abolitionist movement, focusing on one slave's experience -- which intersected a little too dramatically with two white women's lives. I found the story intriguing, knowing it was fiction based on true events; however, the way it was written, especially the first half, made it feel like we were looking at a treasure at the bottom of a pool, but viewing it from the edge of the pool. I wanted the author to dive into the water and bring up every single item of value and examine it in detail. Had this been a full true account, I could understand her limitations, but this was labeled as fiction. She had every opportunity to do a deep dive into these characters' lives and psyches, and missed it.
September 16, 2023
Fascinating Historical Fiction
The Stockwell Letters is fascinating historical fiction, taking me to an unfamiliar time and place. The story takes place in the 1850s, and is told from the point of view of a slave who is searching for freedom, as well as two brave women who did what they could in their own limited way to help him. There was much turmoil in the United States at that time regarding slavery, in both the north and the south, and you could feel the tension of the time on every page. I love when a book entertains and educates concurrently.
The Stockwell Letters is fascinating historical fiction, taking me to an unfamiliar time and place. The story takes place in the 1850s, and is told from the point of view of a slave who is searching for freedom, as well as two brave women who did what they could in their own limited way to help him. There was much turmoil in the United States at that time regarding slavery, in both the north and the south, and you could feel the tension of the time on every page. I love when a book entertains and educates concurrently.
March 9, 2024
A beautifully written story from the perspective of two women in 19th century America: one an abolitionist in Boston, the other a wealthy bride in the antebellum south. Woven between is the story of Anthony Burns, a Virginia slave who bravely escaped to freedom only to be sent back again to bondage. This historical fiction novel is impeccably researched and thoughtfully laid out, and is one you will not be able to put down. Jacqueline Friedland has become one of my favorite authors in recent years. I can’t wait to read more of her work!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2023
This is an era that I don't know nearly enough about, but I really am glad that this book is helping me fill in some of these blanks. You can find my #bookreview on my #bookblog here. https://tcl-bookreviews.com/2023/08/2...
July 7, 2023
The Stockwell Letters by Jacqueline Friedland is a historical fiction novel that took place prior to the Civil War, but during the beginning of the unrest between the North and South and their opinions on owning slaves.
Jacqueline gave great depth to her characters and the public at large. Although it followed people from Virginia, to the Carolinas & north to Massachusetts, they were all brought together by the common thread of Anthony.
This is not one of my preferred genres, but i was thoroughly captivated my Ms. Friedland's writing style and I enjoyed following these characters and never wanted the book to end!
Jacqueline gave great depth to her characters and the public at large. Although it followed people from Virginia, to the Carolinas & north to Massachusetts, they were all brought together by the common thread of Anthony.
This is not one of my preferred genres, but i was thoroughly captivated my Ms. Friedland's writing style and I enjoyed following these characters and never wanted the book to end!
July 8, 2023
It is the Nineteenth Century. The key words heard are enslavement and freedom. Probably, 'freedom' is spoken in a lower voice or whispered. A name well known to us now, Anthony Burns, will gain his freedom in a very strange way. Frankly, I am surprised he did not lose his wits.The battle lines are drawn in halls like Faneuil Hall. It is a rambunctious cry for slavery while others cry out for freedom. Surely, the slave and the freedman are the ones deserving justice. It is a precarious position.
July 3, 2023
Book Review 📚
The Stockwell Letters by Jacqueline Friedman - 4.5/5 ⭐
Never did I imagine being so enthralled with a book about historical fiction! Set in the early 19th century, this book is about to take you on a beautifully written journey.
3 MCs (Diana, Elizabeth and Jacob) exchanging letters, with a POV from each of them giving us an insight into their thoughts. The tree characters all utterly different and yet all work together, perfectly. There is a fantastic character development between all three as the story goes on.
Between the characters and the plot of the story, you are sure to be in love with something. There wasn't a point where I felt bored (unusual for me as I'm not a huge fan of historical fiction) so Jacqueline has really achieved something in her writing. A great story with phenomenal writing.
Thank you to NetGalley and Spark Press for allowing me to read this ARC - this is an HONEST review from my own personal opinion.
The Stockwell Letters by Jacqueline Friedman - 4.5/5 ⭐
Never did I imagine being so enthralled with a book about historical fiction! Set in the early 19th century, this book is about to take you on a beautifully written journey.
3 MCs (Diana, Elizabeth and Jacob) exchanging letters, with a POV from each of them giving us an insight into their thoughts. The tree characters all utterly different and yet all work together, perfectly. There is a fantastic character development between all three as the story goes on.
Between the characters and the plot of the story, you are sure to be in love with something. There wasn't a point where I felt bored (unusual for me as I'm not a huge fan of historical fiction) so Jacqueline has really achieved something in her writing. A great story with phenomenal writing.
Thank you to NetGalley and Spark Press for allowing me to read this ARC - this is an HONEST review from my own personal opinion.
September 25, 2023
The Stockwell Letters takes place in the late 1800's in both Virginia and Boston. The story tells a gripping tale of abolitionists work, and the desperation of just wanting to be free.
I loved the multiple points of view! We heard from an abolitionist couple, a rich white women who has slaves in her home whom she feels close to, and a slave who is desperate to be free and embarks on a journey towards freedom.
This story is so heartbreaking and important. I remember reading and loving Uncle Tom's Cabin when I was a young teen and feeling similar feelings. It's so hard to imagine what life was like back then and I love how the author uses the multiple points of view to give you a well rounded picture. I could feel the emotions of the characters and was deeply involved in the story.
I loved the multiple points of view! We heard from an abolitionist couple, a rich white women who has slaves in her home whom she feels close to, and a slave who is desperate to be free and embarks on a journey towards freedom.
This story is so heartbreaking and important. I remember reading and loving Uncle Tom's Cabin when I was a young teen and feeling similar feelings. It's so hard to imagine what life was like back then and I love how the author uses the multiple points of view to give you a well rounded picture. I could feel the emotions of the characters and was deeply involved in the story.
August 27, 2023
The Stockwell Letters is a very interesting historical novel which touches on the role of women in the abolitionist movement. In the mid-nineteenth century, the United States is divided between the North, which has abolished slavery, and the South, where slavery is not only legal, but also continues to form the backbone of the plantation economy and society. Determined to put an end to slavery everywhere in the country, abolitionists were actively campaigning the federal government to reform the law and treat all human beings as equal and free.
Among the three main characters in the novel is Ann Philips, a Boston activist committed to the cause of freedom alongside her husband Wendell Phillips. A true historical character, Ann suffered her whole life from a frail physical condition. This did not prevent her from playing a key role behind the scenes, writing her husband's speeches and actively coordinating the abolitionist network of relations across the country. The Stockwell Letters shows how she became involved in the defence of Anthony Burns, a famous slave who fled to the North and was sent back to the South before being bought again and freed.
The chapters alternate between Ann’s story, Anthony’s tortuous journey from slavery to freedom, and the story of Colette, the wife of a tobacco plant owner in Virginia. The latter character is fictional but the author explains, in her afterword, that Colette was inspired by a mysterious female anonymous donor who funded Anthony’s studies while he was in the North.
I found The Stockwell Letters extremely interesting and gripping. I even cried a few times when reading particularly violent scenes showing the extreme cruelty in the treatment of slaves, especially fugitives.
I particularly enjoyed…
• the alternating points of view. Whereas Ann and Colette’s stories are told in the first person, Anthony’s is told in the third person, reflecting his alienation and powerlessness as his case becomes a symbol for the fight between Northern abolitionists and pro-slavery Southerners. Yet the identification is strong with all three characters and I found that the author managed to create a unique, endearing voice for each of them.
• the female perspective in the novel. Like Ann and Colette, the reader learns about key developments in Anthony’s case indirectly – via the oral reports of the men involved (such as Wendell) or via the press. Without being tedious, this method of narration reflects the limited role of women in the public sphere in the 19th century, while showing that these restrictions in no way prevented them from being committed to defending their ideas.
• learning about the history of slavery and the abolitionist movement in the US, including the legal and organizational aspects around the case of Anthony Burns. I discovered the role of the vigilance committees as well as the shameful provisions of the Fugitive Slave Act requiring Northern states to send back escaped slaves back to the state where they came from, depriving these men and women of their hard-won freedom and subjecting them to threat of revengeful torture and death.
• the author’s afterword which helps disentangle facts from fiction.
The few things that left me unconvinced were…
• a couple of scenes that appeared unbelievable to me. Colette’s reaction when her husband has a strike and Anthony’s decision to go on the deck of the boat while travelling with McDaniel - when he knows that his freedom hangs by a thread – seemed inconsistent with their psychology in the rest of the book.
• the mistakes in the French phrases used by Colette in certain parts of her story.
Among the three main characters in the novel is Ann Philips, a Boston activist committed to the cause of freedom alongside her husband Wendell Phillips. A true historical character, Ann suffered her whole life from a frail physical condition. This did not prevent her from playing a key role behind the scenes, writing her husband's speeches and actively coordinating the abolitionist network of relations across the country. The Stockwell Letters shows how she became involved in the defence of Anthony Burns, a famous slave who fled to the North and was sent back to the South before being bought again and freed.
The chapters alternate between Ann’s story, Anthony’s tortuous journey from slavery to freedom, and the story of Colette, the wife of a tobacco plant owner in Virginia. The latter character is fictional but the author explains, in her afterword, that Colette was inspired by a mysterious female anonymous donor who funded Anthony’s studies while he was in the North.
I found The Stockwell Letters extremely interesting and gripping. I even cried a few times when reading particularly violent scenes showing the extreme cruelty in the treatment of slaves, especially fugitives.
I particularly enjoyed…
• the alternating points of view. Whereas Ann and Colette’s stories are told in the first person, Anthony’s is told in the third person, reflecting his alienation and powerlessness as his case becomes a symbol for the fight between Northern abolitionists and pro-slavery Southerners. Yet the identification is strong with all three characters and I found that the author managed to create a unique, endearing voice for each of them.
• the female perspective in the novel. Like Ann and Colette, the reader learns about key developments in Anthony’s case indirectly – via the oral reports of the men involved (such as Wendell) or via the press. Without being tedious, this method of narration reflects the limited role of women in the public sphere in the 19th century, while showing that these restrictions in no way prevented them from being committed to defending their ideas.
• learning about the history of slavery and the abolitionist movement in the US, including the legal and organizational aspects around the case of Anthony Burns. I discovered the role of the vigilance committees as well as the shameful provisions of the Fugitive Slave Act requiring Northern states to send back escaped slaves back to the state where they came from, depriving these men and women of their hard-won freedom and subjecting them to threat of revengeful torture and death.
• the author’s afterword which helps disentangle facts from fiction.
The few things that left me unconvinced were…
• a couple of scenes that appeared unbelievable to me. Colette’s reaction when her husband has a strike and Anthony’s decision to go on the deck of the boat while travelling with McDaniel - when he knows that his freedom hangs by a thread – seemed inconsistent with their psychology in the rest of the book.
• the mistakes in the French phrases used by Colette in certain parts of her story.
August 25, 2023
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours for having me on this tour and for my #gifted copy in exchange for an honest review! 🤗
𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
I love historical fiction books, but I have never read anything about the abolitionist movement, so I was pretty excited to get my hands on this one! Friedland blew me away, as this was such an amazingly powerful book, with a strong and powerful female character. The MC, Ann, is a strong, resilient, and motivational character who has a deliberating illness yet she is selfless and puts others before herself. Ann and her husband, Wendell are against slavery, and they help out Anthony Burns, a slave who has escaped, only to be taken back into slavery again. This is a moving story about selflessness and humanity during a time period that we do not hear enough about. Friedland delivers this book to readers with such depth and research, as it is based on actual events. I felt connected to the characters, and at times my heart absolutely broke for them. Friedland’s story gives us a glimpse at pre Civil War time, and just how slavery and women’s rights were viewed. Ann and Wendell Phillips were amazing characters that make it their mission to fight for the freedom of others, no matter what the consequences are for themselves. I loved seeing how selfless and dedicated this husband and wife duo are, and how they went at so many lengths to protect Anthony Burns. This is a beautifully written, yet emotional book that I highly recommend!
𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐞?
Historical Fiction fans that enjoy a theme and topic that is not often portrayed in books, such as the abolitionist movement, should definitely pick this one up!
𝐌𝐲 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫4.25/5
𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
I love historical fiction books, but I have never read anything about the abolitionist movement, so I was pretty excited to get my hands on this one! Friedland blew me away, as this was such an amazingly powerful book, with a strong and powerful female character. The MC, Ann, is a strong, resilient, and motivational character who has a deliberating illness yet she is selfless and puts others before herself. Ann and her husband, Wendell are against slavery, and they help out Anthony Burns, a slave who has escaped, only to be taken back into slavery again. This is a moving story about selflessness and humanity during a time period that we do not hear enough about. Friedland delivers this book to readers with such depth and research, as it is based on actual events. I felt connected to the characters, and at times my heart absolutely broke for them. Friedland’s story gives us a glimpse at pre Civil War time, and just how slavery and women’s rights were viewed. Ann and Wendell Phillips were amazing characters that make it their mission to fight for the freedom of others, no matter what the consequences are for themselves. I loved seeing how selfless and dedicated this husband and wife duo are, and how they went at so many lengths to protect Anthony Burns. This is a beautifully written, yet emotional book that I highly recommend!
𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐞?
Historical Fiction fans that enjoy a theme and topic that is not often portrayed in books, such as the abolitionist movement, should definitely pick this one up!
𝐌𝐲 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫4.25/5
August 16, 2023
Jacqueline Friedland, the author of “The Stockwell Letters,” has written an amazing, poignant, and captivating historical fiction novel. This is a well-written novel that shows the author has done extensive research. This is set just before the Civil War and shows how the North and the South view slavery and women’s rights. Jacqueline Friedland vividly describes the setting and her dramatic characters. The characters are described as complex and complicated. There is evidence of good and evil.
Slavery is a tragic part of history, and in this novel, the author discusses how difficult it was for a slave to get his freedom. The slaves in the South were regarded as property and punished on the whim of their masters. Some slaves tried to get to the North for freedom but often were pursued by bounty hunters and other people from the South. Were slaves in the North truly free? Women at the time were restricted in their views and not treated equally. Some women. were abolitionists and tried to help the best they could.
Ann Phillips was a female abolitionist, married to abolitionist Wendall Phillips. Wendall often curtailed Ann’s activities because of an illness that made her seem very frail. One cause dear to her heart was Anthony Burns, a former slave that did find his freedom in Boston temporarily. Anthony is apprehended and is to be sent back to the South. Ann will do anything that she can to help him.
I appreciate how Jacqueline Friedland discusses the difficulties and dangers that the abolitionists faced. The slaves faced severe punishment, danger, and possibly death. I would highly recommend this memorable and thought-provoking novel to others.
Slavery is a tragic part of history, and in this novel, the author discusses how difficult it was for a slave to get his freedom. The slaves in the South were regarded as property and punished on the whim of their masters. Some slaves tried to get to the North for freedom but often were pursued by bounty hunters and other people from the South. Were slaves in the North truly free? Women at the time were restricted in their views and not treated equally. Some women. were abolitionists and tried to help the best they could.
Ann Phillips was a female abolitionist, married to abolitionist Wendall Phillips. Wendall often curtailed Ann’s activities because of an illness that made her seem very frail. One cause dear to her heart was Anthony Burns, a former slave that did find his freedom in Boston temporarily. Anthony is apprehended and is to be sent back to the South. Ann will do anything that she can to help him.
I appreciate how Jacqueline Friedland discusses the difficulties and dangers that the abolitionists faced. The slaves faced severe punishment, danger, and possibly death. I would highly recommend this memorable and thought-provoking novel to others.
November 10, 2023
This book was very entertaining, as well as heartbreaking and at times painful to read. I appreciated the books intentions, however considering it's a well known narrative of the slave that escapes to freedom, I was really hoping I would learn more about Antebellum America when reading this book in both the treatment of slaves and treatment of women, and the only thing I learned was the fugitive slave law. This was because it was more focused on the fiction aspect of historical fiction, which I would accept if it weren't for the lack of voice I felt at times from the characters, and I feel like they were watered down, especially Colette. That's another thing that bothered me, in the books depiction of Colette it painted out the mistresses of the slave masters to be helpless and not complicit, when the women did in fact still own and often physically and emotionally abuse the slaves. 12 Years a Slave did a great job capturing this. I'm not minimizing the struggle of women at this time as I know they were much under the control of their husbands, but the slaves were still considered her property. However, there was one conversation Colette had with a slave that did address the power dynamic, regardless of how innocently women were viewed. The writing was very clear, making it an easy read, but at times a bit too simple. There were also some major gaps in the plot that get lost when the character perspectives switch, and I don't know why Anthony is in 3rd person while the two women speak in 1st. Overall, nothing special, but if you're looking for an easy read about a tough time in history, this book works.
September 16, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
Jacqueline Friedland shines a light on the abolitionist movement and slavery during the pre-Civil War era in this thought-provoking and poignant novel.
Ann Phillips is a young abolitionist, but an illness strikes her at only twenty-four, leaving her frail. Wendall Phillips, her husband, a famous abolitionist and lecturer, does not want Ann to go to public rallies. Yet Ann becomes a vital partner for Wendall, writing speeches and coordinating the abolitionist network.
Anthony Burns is a fugitive slave who has been captured in Boston and is being sent back to the South. Ann is determined to help him, even if it costs her everything.
Colette Randolph is a young woman who was married off to an older gentleman per her father’s request. Colette’s husband is a slave owner, yet she despises slavery. Before Anthony’s flight, she had befriended him, even secretly teaching Anthony to read.
All of their lives are intertwined as they work for a way to further the cause. Ann and Colette must overcome obstacles - but their passion shines through.
Told through multiple POVs, we get not only the atmosphere of the Antebellum South but the dedication to the fight against slavery and the laws imposed on those seeking to abolish it.
Fast-paced, full of emotion; 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 will have you turning pages to find out the resolution.
**𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳’𝘴 𝘕𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘭𝘶𝘥𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭-𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @jackiefriedland for a spot on tour and a gifted book.
Jacqueline Friedland shines a light on the abolitionist movement and slavery during the pre-Civil War era in this thought-provoking and poignant novel.
Ann Phillips is a young abolitionist, but an illness strikes her at only twenty-four, leaving her frail. Wendall Phillips, her husband, a famous abolitionist and lecturer, does not want Ann to go to public rallies. Yet Ann becomes a vital partner for Wendall, writing speeches and coordinating the abolitionist network.
Anthony Burns is a fugitive slave who has been captured in Boston and is being sent back to the South. Ann is determined to help him, even if it costs her everything.
Colette Randolph is a young woman who was married off to an older gentleman per her father’s request. Colette’s husband is a slave owner, yet she despises slavery. Before Anthony’s flight, she had befriended him, even secretly teaching Anthony to read.
All of their lives are intertwined as they work for a way to further the cause. Ann and Colette must overcome obstacles - but their passion shines through.
Told through multiple POVs, we get not only the atmosphere of the Antebellum South but the dedication to the fight against slavery and the laws imposed on those seeking to abolish it.
Fast-paced, full of emotion; 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 will have you turning pages to find out the resolution.
**𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳’𝘴 𝘕𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘭𝘶𝘥𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭-𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @jackiefriedland for a spot on tour and a gifted book.
September 17, 2023
𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐅 𝐘𝐎𝐔
✉️ used to write letters the old fashioned way
🌾 enjoy historical fiction based on true events
👀 love multiple POVs
🪖 like reading about the civil war
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
A passionate advocate of abolition from her earliest years, Ann’s activism was derailed just before her twenty-fourth birthday, when she fell sick with a mysterious illness. In order to protect her fragile health, her husband, the famous abolitionist Wendell Phillips, forbade her from joining any further anti-slavery outings. Even so, when fugitive slave Anthony Burns is apprehended in Boston, Ann is determined to help him, no matter what it costs her.
With a particular focus on the predicament of nineteenth-century women who wanted to effect change despite the restrictions society imposed on them, The Stockwell Letters takes a deep dive into the harrowing conditions of the antebellum South and the obstacles faced by abolitionists who fought tirelessly to eradicate slavery. A fast-paced, arresting recounting of America’s not-so-distant history, the story will stay with readers long after the final page.
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
I really love when historical fiction is based on true events, so The Stockwell Letters was a real treat to read! I always love reading about the abolitionists and all they did to stop slavery. If I had been around back then, I hope that I would have been someone against slavery as well. I enjoyed reading the multiple POVs and felt like it really added to the story’s depth! I shed a few tears while reading The Stockwell Letters. Highly recommend!
✉️ used to write letters the old fashioned way
🌾 enjoy historical fiction based on true events
👀 love multiple POVs
🪖 like reading about the civil war
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
A passionate advocate of abolition from her earliest years, Ann’s activism was derailed just before her twenty-fourth birthday, when she fell sick with a mysterious illness. In order to protect her fragile health, her husband, the famous abolitionist Wendell Phillips, forbade her from joining any further anti-slavery outings. Even so, when fugitive slave Anthony Burns is apprehended in Boston, Ann is determined to help him, no matter what it costs her.
With a particular focus on the predicament of nineteenth-century women who wanted to effect change despite the restrictions society imposed on them, The Stockwell Letters takes a deep dive into the harrowing conditions of the antebellum South and the obstacles faced by abolitionists who fought tirelessly to eradicate slavery. A fast-paced, arresting recounting of America’s not-so-distant history, the story will stay with readers long after the final page.
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
I really love when historical fiction is based on true events, so The Stockwell Letters was a real treat to read! I always love reading about the abolitionists and all they did to stop slavery. If I had been around back then, I hope that I would have been someone against slavery as well. I enjoyed reading the multiple POVs and felt like it really added to the story’s depth! I shed a few tears while reading The Stockwell Letters. Highly recommend!
August 13, 2023
Very fascinating read based on true people and an escaped slave who became the face of change with his court trial and fight for freedom. Anthony Burns takes his time planning his escape and once on free soil, he knows he could never go back to slavery. But slave catchers are every where and will take just about anyone they think may have escaped to line their pockets. When arrested and accused of stealing, Anthony had no idea what was about to unfold. Abolitionist Ann Phillips feels they are not doing enough to help escaped slaves and yet in a way their hands are tied with the laws even thought they are in the north, the free states. When she hears about Anthony Burns, she knows something must be done and with the help of her husband they do all they can to prove and crusade for his freedom no matter the cost. She is determined to not let another person be sent back south and knows changes need to be made. I really enjoyed how the author wrote from the three different viewpoints and really how hard it was for the north to help anyone without repercussion and just how much those in power could easily be paid off to rule in favor of the supposed slave owners. I loved all of the history and had not yet heard of these people and this case. Thank you to Suzy Approved Book Tours for the invite and to the author and publisher for the free novel. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
September 23, 2023
Thank you @jackiefriedland
@suzyapprovedbooktours for my gifted book and my spot on the tour. My thoughts are my own.
This well-written, thought-provoking book is based on a true story and it examines several issues of the turbulent 1850s, including the plight of 19th century women and the obstacles that abolitionists and slaves faced. The story unfolds through three perspectives:
COLETTE, the only fictional character, represents the life so many Southern women faced. She is married to a cruel man. She longs to help others and she secretly sympathizes with slaves, even teaching two of them to read. She learns a lesson when she realizes she is still part of the problem.
ANTHONY BURNS is a slave who is trusted to move about town and work for wages. He saves money, hoping to one day escape, but when his employer demands the money, Anthony flees to Boston and enjoys a brief time of freedom and prosperity. However, he is soon caught and returned to the South. He endures horrible conditions but eventually becomes free again. He maintains a positive attitude and relies on his faith to get him through tough times.
ANN PHILLIPS and her husband live in Boston. They are passionate abolitionists. Even though Ann faces serious health issues, she supports her husband in every way she can. She takes special interest in Anthony’s plight.
If you enjoy historical fiction based on real life, don’t miss this novel that tells a story that will leave you thinking.
@suzyapprovedbooktours for my gifted book and my spot on the tour. My thoughts are my own.
This well-written, thought-provoking book is based on a true story and it examines several issues of the turbulent 1850s, including the plight of 19th century women and the obstacles that abolitionists and slaves faced. The story unfolds through three perspectives:
COLETTE, the only fictional character, represents the life so many Southern women faced. She is married to a cruel man. She longs to help others and she secretly sympathizes with slaves, even teaching two of them to read. She learns a lesson when she realizes she is still part of the problem.
ANTHONY BURNS is a slave who is trusted to move about town and work for wages. He saves money, hoping to one day escape, but when his employer demands the money, Anthony flees to Boston and enjoys a brief time of freedom and prosperity. However, he is soon caught and returned to the South. He endures horrible conditions but eventually becomes free again. He maintains a positive attitude and relies on his faith to get him through tough times.
ANN PHILLIPS and her husband live in Boston. They are passionate abolitionists. Even though Ann faces serious health issues, she supports her husband in every way she can. She takes special interest in Anthony’s plight.
If you enjoy historical fiction based on real life, don’t miss this novel that tells a story that will leave you thinking.
August 29, 2023
Ann and Wendell Phillips were active abolitionists in nineteenth century America and their involvement in anti-slavery forms the basis for this interesting historical novel which also looks at the case of escaped slave, Anthony Burns and the way in which he was sent back to Virginia having made it to the free state of Massachusetts, settling for a short time in Boston. This case attracted much attention at the time and in using factual evidence in combination with well written historical fiction a story emerges which sheds light on this shameful time in history.
The Stockwell Letters is a well researched and thought-provoking story about something I knew very little about which therefore offered me the opportunity to learn more about what life was like in America during the middle part of the nineteenth century and the inhumane treatment of slaves who found themselves on the wrong side of humanity. I felt such sympathy for Anthony Burns and only hoped that his life became easier. Ann and Wendell Phillips are equally fascinating characters who I enjoyed getting to know over the course of the story. The other characters who flit into, and out of, the story also add their own contribution to the overall strength of the narrative.
The Stockwell Letters is one of those well written historical novels which stays with you long after the last page is turned.
The Stockwell Letters is a well researched and thought-provoking story about something I knew very little about which therefore offered me the opportunity to learn more about what life was like in America during the middle part of the nineteenth century and the inhumane treatment of slaves who found themselves on the wrong side of humanity. I felt such sympathy for Anthony Burns and only hoped that his life became easier. Ann and Wendell Phillips are equally fascinating characters who I enjoyed getting to know over the course of the story. The other characters who flit into, and out of, the story also add their own contribution to the overall strength of the narrative.
The Stockwell Letters is one of those well written historical novels which stays with you long after the last page is turned.
January 30, 2024
4.5 stars
The Stockwell Letters is the fascinating story of Anthony Burns, a man who escapes slavery in Virginia and a group of Boston abolitionists fighting against slavery. Well-written and researched, it’s a tightly-paced novel that had me turning the pages.
Friedland brought Anthony’s terrible circumstances to life. His court case and time in a slave prison were heartbreaking. It was shocking to me that southern slave owners could go north and hunt down their slaves to bring them back home.
I had never heard of Wendell and Ann Phillips or their group of abolitionist friends. Their passion and efforts for the movement were so admirable. I particularly enjoyed that Ann was the voice behind all of Wendell’s speeches.
Collette was a third perspective in the novel. She was sympathetic to Anthony and helped him learn how to read. I felt that her connection to Anthony was a bit thin. There wasn’t much of a developed relationship between the two to show why she would help him. Her story was compelling though…showing what a woman’s life could be at the time, married to a horrible man and having no rights or freedom. The conundrum of her being sympathetic to slaves while still owning them was an interesting theme.
An amazing story.
The Stockwell Letters is the fascinating story of Anthony Burns, a man who escapes slavery in Virginia and a group of Boston abolitionists fighting against slavery. Well-written and researched, it’s a tightly-paced novel that had me turning the pages.
Friedland brought Anthony’s terrible circumstances to life. His court case and time in a slave prison were heartbreaking. It was shocking to me that southern slave owners could go north and hunt down their slaves to bring them back home.
I had never heard of Wendell and Ann Phillips or their group of abolitionist friends. Their passion and efforts for the movement were so admirable. I particularly enjoyed that Ann was the voice behind all of Wendell’s speeches.
Collette was a third perspective in the novel. She was sympathetic to Anthony and helped him learn how to read. I felt that her connection to Anthony was a bit thin. There wasn’t much of a developed relationship between the two to show why she would help him. Her story was compelling though…showing what a woman’s life could be at the time, married to a horrible man and having no rights or freedom. The conundrum of her being sympathetic to slaves while still owning them was an interesting theme.
An amazing story.
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