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Creek Country Saga #3
Warring Spirits
OUT-DATED EDITION. Warring Spirits is an out-dated edition of "Beneath the Blackberry Moon: The Ebony Cloak" by the same author: April W Gardner
Three cultures, one battle. A thousand warring spirits.
In 1816 Georgia, escaped slaves control the land just beyond the American border in Las Floridas. Lost somewhere between white and black worlds, Milly follows hope to the only place that can offer her refuge—the place Georgians are calling Negro Fort. The first, sweet taste of freedom convinces Milly that surrender is not an option. Death would be more welcome.
Major Phillip Bailey has orders to subdue the uprising and return the runaways to their masters. Forced to fight alongside Creek warriors—the same who etched the scars into his mind and flesh—Phillip primes himself for battle. But inside, a war already rages—return for the woman he thought lost to him or concede her to the enemy she loves; follow orders or follow his heart.
Three cultures, one battle. A thousand warring spirits.
In 1816 Georgia, escaped slaves control the land just beyond the American border in Las Floridas. Lost somewhere between white and black worlds, Milly follows hope to the only place that can offer her refuge—the place Georgians are calling Negro Fort. The first, sweet taste of freedom convinces Milly that surrender is not an option. Death would be more welcome.
Major Phillip Bailey has orders to subdue the uprising and return the runaways to their masters. Forced to fight alongside Creek warriors—the same who etched the scars into his mind and flesh—Phillip primes himself for battle. But inside, a war already rages—return for the woman he thought lost to him or concede her to the enemy she loves; follow orders or follow his heart.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 30, 2011
85 people are currently reading
133 people want to read
About the author
April W. Gardner
22 books285 followersAPRIL W GARDNER writes Christian historical romance with a focus on our Southeastern Native Tribes. She is also a military wife and mother of two who lives in South Texas. In no particular order, April dreams of owning a horse, learning a third language, and visiting all the national parks.
You can find April at these locations:
Website
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You can find April at these locations:
Website
BookBub
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
April 13, 2017
Full review on FaithfullyBookish.com 4/13/17
Love and war, prejudice and duty, people of all sizes, shapes, and colors… this story is a historical fiction lover’s dream!
Phillip Bailey is haunted day and night by his past horrors and heartache. Although I sometimes questioned his motives and character in previous books, the significant time spent in his perspective during this story won me over!
Milly is a beautiful, strong, and intelligent woman. She has suffered terror and sorrow few can comprehend yet Milly remains compassionate and steadfast.
The Ebony Cloak is a splendid expedition! This series has earned a place among my all time favorites!
I received a copy of this book from the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
Love and war, prejudice and duty, people of all sizes, shapes, and colors… this story is a historical fiction lover’s dream!
Phillip Bailey is haunted day and night by his past horrors and heartache. Although I sometimes questioned his motives and character in previous books, the significant time spent in his perspective during this story won me over!
Milly is a beautiful, strong, and intelligent woman. She has suffered terror and sorrow few can comprehend yet Milly remains compassionate and steadfast.
The Ebony Cloak is a splendid expedition! This series has earned a place among my all time favorites!
I received a copy of this book from the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
October 19, 2011
Warring Spirits is just as enthralling--if not moreso--than the first book in the series, Wounded Spirits. I read it straight through. Gardner knows how to write with conviction so readers can't miss the compassion she has for the people and their struggles in this story. There is heart-felt love and tension written on every page. No opportunity to show God's heart for mankind was wasted. And unlike some stories where the conflict feels almost forced, in this series they are a natural result of the pain and struggles that the characters face. Gardner spares none of her characters from suffering, and as a reader, you really feel that.
Reading this book was like watching a movie in my head. Several times I forgot that I was reading. I could picture each character because they were fleshed out so thoroughly. I felt their anguish. Gardner's writing and plotting was so well done it left me a bit breathless, but also rewarded for sticking with the story to the perfectly orchestrated ending.
Those joyous reunions that her persecuted characters experienced were sigh-worthy and melted my heart. I sensed the relief, the passion, and the overwhelming gratitude the characters experienced when their prayers were answered - though not usually in a way they expected. That made the story even more delightful because it wasn't predictable.
Yes, there was death, carnage, abuse and enough details to give the reader a true sense of the hardships faced, but at the same time there was such a beautiful portrayal of sacrifice. I loved how the story emphasized in a natural way the importance of not only listening to God's voice, but obeying it. It's impossible not to feel the joy gleaned in the midst of the devastation, and to see God's hand moving in spite of everything. Warring Spirits is a wonderful, passionate novel, and one I won't forget anytime soon.
Reading this book was like watching a movie in my head. Several times I forgot that I was reading. I could picture each character because they were fleshed out so thoroughly. I felt their anguish. Gardner's writing and plotting was so well done it left me a bit breathless, but also rewarded for sticking with the story to the perfectly orchestrated ending.
Those joyous reunions that her persecuted characters experienced were sigh-worthy and melted my heart. I sensed the relief, the passion, and the overwhelming gratitude the characters experienced when their prayers were answered - though not usually in a way they expected. That made the story even more delightful because it wasn't predictable.
Yes, there was death, carnage, abuse and enough details to give the reader a true sense of the hardships faced, but at the same time there was such a beautiful portrayal of sacrifice. I loved how the story emphasized in a natural way the importance of not only listening to God's voice, but obeying it. It's impossible not to feel the joy gleaned in the midst of the devastation, and to see God's hand moving in spite of everything. Warring Spirits is a wonderful, passionate novel, and one I won't forget anytime soon.
January 7, 2018
Goodness! I feel like I could gush about this series and this author for forever and still not express how much I love these stories and how fabulous a writer I think April Gardner is. Talk about real characters, unique plot, diversity in all it’s beauty, history brought to life, all put together in a romantic page turner. Every Garner book is a must read.
April 20, 2017
Where do I even begin?! April Gardner has done it once again by producing this gripping and beautiful story. This time the main focal character is Phillip and a runaway slave named Milly although some of our favorite characters appear and play important roles. We also meet some new characters whom I’ve already fallen in love with.
I’m excited to share with you about The Ebony Cloak because it stands out from most historical fiction novels. It’s rare to find a book that is set in Florida. Okay, I may also have been impressed because I happen to live in Florida.
This is not a feel good story, but Gardner does keep it light and fun at the same time. To be honest, it gets intense and somewhat gritty. It was hard watching and learning the things that Milly went through. She has had a hard life where she was raped and abused. Gardner does this in a way without going into detail, showing the consequences, and in a way that doesn’t glorify the sin. Milly was real whom my heart empathized with. I felt all of her emotions. Her confusion, anger, mistrust, all of it.
And then there’s Phillip. I’m excited that Gardner gave him a story because I needed to learn how he survived Fort Mims, that he would learn to let Adela go, forgive Totka, and learn to love again. Like Milly, his character was relatable. He’s still dealing with the after effects of the war and losing the girl he was supposed to marry to someone else. While he struggles with PTSDesque symptoms, he quickly grows attached to Milly. I can’t say enough about these characters. I’m attached.
Like The Red Feather, Gardner threw in another huge historical event. Have you ever heard of Negro Fort? Well, neither have I and I have lived in Florida for most of my life. I won’t go into too much detail because I don’t want to give the whole story away. Negro Fort is a British fort located in Spanish Florida at Prospect Bluff on the Apalachicola River (in what is now known as east of Pensacola, Florida). The British originally used it during the War of 1812 to recruit runaway slaves from, and Muskogee refugees to aid them in bringing the Americas down. Eventually after the war ended, the British left and allowed the runaway slaves, Seminoles, and Muskogee refugees to take over. From what I read, remains of the fort are still there today but the markers can easily be missed. Even though Gardner did change up some of the facts for fictional reasons, I love that she included this because I learned something new. When I did a little extra research it attracted about 800 fugitive slaves. It attracted runaways from as far as Tennessee and the Mississippi River to seek refuge at the fort. It was one of the main stops of the Underground Railroad. The fort was considered a threat not only to slavery but hostile and violent as they would attack anyone who came near and were known for violent raids on nearby settlers. This was a pretty huge piece of Florida history which eventually later led into the Seminole Wars so it astounds me that I never knew about any of this. I’ll just leave that there so you can learn more about that for yourself. I know I’m definitely going to have to check out some of the resources that the author included in the back of the book because I’m curious to know more.
This gave the book that wow factor. So many events happened in the book with circumstances constantly changing that I wondered how Gardner was going to solve everything. There were so many twists and turns that kept surprising me, especially with the romance. It was impossible for me to put the book down.
I can’t say enough about how awesome this novel is.
Highly recommended!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
I’m excited to share with you about The Ebony Cloak because it stands out from most historical fiction novels. It’s rare to find a book that is set in Florida. Okay, I may also have been impressed because I happen to live in Florida.
This is not a feel good story, but Gardner does keep it light and fun at the same time. To be honest, it gets intense and somewhat gritty. It was hard watching and learning the things that Milly went through. She has had a hard life where she was raped and abused. Gardner does this in a way without going into detail, showing the consequences, and in a way that doesn’t glorify the sin. Milly was real whom my heart empathized with. I felt all of her emotions. Her confusion, anger, mistrust, all of it.
And then there’s Phillip. I’m excited that Gardner gave him a story because I needed to learn how he survived Fort Mims, that he would learn to let Adela go, forgive Totka, and learn to love again. Like Milly, his character was relatable. He’s still dealing with the after effects of the war and losing the girl he was supposed to marry to someone else. While he struggles with PTSDesque symptoms, he quickly grows attached to Milly. I can’t say enough about these characters. I’m attached.
Like The Red Feather, Gardner threw in another huge historical event. Have you ever heard of Negro Fort? Well, neither have I and I have lived in Florida for most of my life. I won’t go into too much detail because I don’t want to give the whole story away. Negro Fort is a British fort located in Spanish Florida at Prospect Bluff on the Apalachicola River (in what is now known as east of Pensacola, Florida). The British originally used it during the War of 1812 to recruit runaway slaves from, and Muskogee refugees to aid them in bringing the Americas down. Eventually after the war ended, the British left and allowed the runaway slaves, Seminoles, and Muskogee refugees to take over. From what I read, remains of the fort are still there today but the markers can easily be missed. Even though Gardner did change up some of the facts for fictional reasons, I love that she included this because I learned something new. When I did a little extra research it attracted about 800 fugitive slaves. It attracted runaways from as far as Tennessee and the Mississippi River to seek refuge at the fort. It was one of the main stops of the Underground Railroad. The fort was considered a threat not only to slavery but hostile and violent as they would attack anyone who came near and were known for violent raids on nearby settlers. This was a pretty huge piece of Florida history which eventually later led into the Seminole Wars so it astounds me that I never knew about any of this. I’ll just leave that there so you can learn more about that for yourself. I know I’m definitely going to have to check out some of the resources that the author included in the back of the book because I’m curious to know more.
This gave the book that wow factor. So many events happened in the book with circumstances constantly changing that I wondered how Gardner was going to solve everything. There were so many twists and turns that kept surprising me, especially with the romance. It was impossible for me to put the book down.
I can’t say enough about how awesome this novel is.
Highly recommended!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 7, 2012
First posted on my blog, Legacy of a Writer.
Warring Spirits completely swept me off my feet! Revisiting characters from Wounded Spirits and discovering new ones, this next book in the Creek Country Saga is sure to win April Gardner new fans everywhere! It’s always a wonderful surprise when the second book turns out even better than the first (which was awesome to begin with! ;-), and that’s exactly what I discovered in Warring Spirits. That first scene drew me into this fantastic adventure alongside two amazing characters—Phillip the soldier and Milly the slave.
For Phillip Bailey, shackled to his haunting past, he understands and quickly come to sympathize with Milly—the young slave girl who looks every bit like a white person except for her frizzy hair. Throughout Warring Spirits, both Phillip and Milly are taken on a wild adventure as each struggles to find peace in a war-torn land. The ultimate journey for freedom seems to be continually thwarted for Milly, and no amount of Phillips secret aid helps her. It isn't until these two give the prize they both long for—freedom—to the Lord, that He returns it to them ways they could never have imagine.
Everything about this book was delightful. From the very accurate, if gruesome, details of the history, to the believable characters. April isn’t a cliché author, that’s for sure—everything within this book is as close-to-life as possible for a book, and I love it even more for that. An issue that is present in this book is the use of beautiful slave girls for their masters. While April does an outstanding job of not going into too much detail, a slavegirl is raped within the book, though the actual incident takes place “off scene”. This isn’t an easy matter to write about, I am sure, but I commend April for not steering away from the reality of that time period—as slaves were often used for such depravity by their masters.
From cover to cover Warring Spirits is a powerful, action-packed, romantic, emotional book with a message that will remain with you for a long time to come. April Gardner is a gem of an author worth setting alongside the other amazing historical fiction writers on my shelf (Jody Hedlund, Kaye Dacus, and Laura Frantz, to name a few!). Loved every moment I spent in Warring Spirits and was sad to see it come to an end!
Warring Spirits completely swept me off my feet! Revisiting characters from Wounded Spirits and discovering new ones, this next book in the Creek Country Saga is sure to win April Gardner new fans everywhere! It’s always a wonderful surprise when the second book turns out even better than the first (which was awesome to begin with! ;-), and that’s exactly what I discovered in Warring Spirits. That first scene drew me into this fantastic adventure alongside two amazing characters—Phillip the soldier and Milly the slave.
For Phillip Bailey, shackled to his haunting past, he understands and quickly come to sympathize with Milly—the young slave girl who looks every bit like a white person except for her frizzy hair. Throughout Warring Spirits, both Phillip and Milly are taken on a wild adventure as each struggles to find peace in a war-torn land. The ultimate journey for freedom seems to be continually thwarted for Milly, and no amount of Phillips secret aid helps her. It isn't until these two give the prize they both long for—freedom—to the Lord, that He returns it to them ways they could never have imagine.
Everything about this book was delightful. From the very accurate, if gruesome, details of the history, to the believable characters. April isn’t a cliché author, that’s for sure—everything within this book is as close-to-life as possible for a book, and I love it even more for that. An issue that is present in this book is the use of beautiful slave girls for their masters. While April does an outstanding job of not going into too much detail, a slavegirl is raped within the book, though the actual incident takes place “off scene”. This isn’t an easy matter to write about, I am sure, but I commend April for not steering away from the reality of that time period—as slaves were often used for such depravity by their masters.
From cover to cover Warring Spirits is a powerful, action-packed, romantic, emotional book with a message that will remain with you for a long time to come. April Gardner is a gem of an author worth setting alongside the other amazing historical fiction writers on my shelf (Jody Hedlund, Kaye Dacus, and Laura Frantz, to name a few!). Loved every moment I spent in Warring Spirits and was sad to see it come to an end!
January 6, 2012
Creek Country Saga Gets Better
April Gardner defies sophomore syndrome like the pro she is. Her work just gets better and better. Readers of historic issue-laden fiction, especially of early nineteenth-century south-eastern Americana, won’t be disappointed.
Major Philip Bailey has nightmares, and no wonder. As a survivor of the horrific massacre at Fort Mims between the settlers and Creeks, Red Sticks, to be more specific. Wounded, scarred, and betrayed by the love of his life—to one of the enemy, no less—Philip is entitled to his rage and fear. But his deep-seated beliefs are upended after a disturbing encounter in the forest.
Milly is running away. Accompanied by her faithful friend Isum, she hopes against hope to make it to freedom and the Negro Fort beyond the US border in Las Floridas. Passing for white but for one giveaway, she almost conquers the first test on the road, until the white man gets suspicious and sends her owner after her. Isum, dear Isum, would give his life. Dear God, she hopes it doesn’t come to that, as they run.
Philip saw a woman in the woods. Not just any woman, but a beautiful young woman being carried away by a huge black man. Is he nuts?
When Philip and Milly meet, Philip loses his heart again. It’s okay, according to the company doc Marcus, Philip’s best friend. Philip deserves to be happy with someone worthy. But Philip’s company is under orders to put down another rebellion – that of escaped slaves who have started to gather strength just beyond the US border.
Milly wants her freedom at any cost. Philip wants to be free of the demons that have taken his spirit. Milly loves the depth of Philip’s devotion both to his duty and new country, and to his fellow man. She challenges him to live up to his kindness and faith by freeing his young slave. He challenges her to be true to herself. But he doesn’t know the devastation that will happen if she reveals her true self.
The secondary storylines, which give the reader a glimpse of surprisingly realistic life in the Negro Fort and the Creek family searching for their roots, are pages taken from modern news.
My admiration of this young author grows. I look forward to her next work.
April Gardner defies sophomore syndrome like the pro she is. Her work just gets better and better. Readers of historic issue-laden fiction, especially of early nineteenth-century south-eastern Americana, won’t be disappointed.
Major Philip Bailey has nightmares, and no wonder. As a survivor of the horrific massacre at Fort Mims between the settlers and Creeks, Red Sticks, to be more specific. Wounded, scarred, and betrayed by the love of his life—to one of the enemy, no less—Philip is entitled to his rage and fear. But his deep-seated beliefs are upended after a disturbing encounter in the forest.
Milly is running away. Accompanied by her faithful friend Isum, she hopes against hope to make it to freedom and the Negro Fort beyond the US border in Las Floridas. Passing for white but for one giveaway, she almost conquers the first test on the road, until the white man gets suspicious and sends her owner after her. Isum, dear Isum, would give his life. Dear God, she hopes it doesn’t come to that, as they run.
Philip saw a woman in the woods. Not just any woman, but a beautiful young woman being carried away by a huge black man. Is he nuts?
When Philip and Milly meet, Philip loses his heart again. It’s okay, according to the company doc Marcus, Philip’s best friend. Philip deserves to be happy with someone worthy. But Philip’s company is under orders to put down another rebellion – that of escaped slaves who have started to gather strength just beyond the US border.
Milly wants her freedom at any cost. Philip wants to be free of the demons that have taken his spirit. Milly loves the depth of Philip’s devotion both to his duty and new country, and to his fellow man. She challenges him to live up to his kindness and faith by freeing his young slave. He challenges her to be true to herself. But he doesn’t know the devastation that will happen if she reveals her true self.
The secondary storylines, which give the reader a glimpse of surprisingly realistic life in the Negro Fort and the Creek family searching for their roots, are pages taken from modern news.
My admiration of this young author grows. I look forward to her next work.
January 8, 2012
"Warring Spirits" transports the reader back to 1816 when owning slaves in the south was normal, but it was also quite normal for those slaves to dream of freedom and risk their life to gain it. Milly was different than most slaves, she could pass as a white woman, except for her hair which was a dead giveaway. The only comfort she ever had during her years as a slave came from her friend Isam, so when she heard the rumor that Isam had been sold they both decide to escape and head for the Negro Fort. Will they achieve the freedom that they long for?
The US Army has been dispatched to join forces with the Creek Indians to overthrow the Negro Fort. Major Phillip Bailey's past wont let go and haunts him daily. The scar he carries on his face is nothing compared to his wounded spirit. When he sees what he thinks is a white woman near the Negro Fort he can't get her out of his mind, and wants to rescue her, but when he learns that Milly is actually a slave will he help her or return her to her master?
I am a huge fan of historical fiction and this story doesn't disappoint. The characters in this story really pulled me in. In the beginning pages I was drawn to Milly and Isum and had to know how their stories would work out. Their dream of freedom was tangible, and once they experienced it there was no going back.My heart broke on several occasions for Milly,and I could easily understand why she felt God had left her. Phillip was a true gentleman, something that Milly had never experienced in a white man.The author often allowed us to see Phillip's wonderful character from how he handled his relationship with Totka to the way he treated Enoch.
This was one of those stories that had my heart breaking on several occasions, but the author provided an ending that had my spirits soaring.
While "Warring Spirits" is the second book in the Creek County Saga I felt like the author provided enough background information that it could be read as a stand alone work, but honestly it's such a great series your going to want to read both books.
On a scale of one to five I would rate this series a six because it's just that good!
A complimentary copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review.
The US Army has been dispatched to join forces with the Creek Indians to overthrow the Negro Fort. Major Phillip Bailey's past wont let go and haunts him daily. The scar he carries on his face is nothing compared to his wounded spirit. When he sees what he thinks is a white woman near the Negro Fort he can't get her out of his mind, and wants to rescue her, but when he learns that Milly is actually a slave will he help her or return her to her master?
I am a huge fan of historical fiction and this story doesn't disappoint. The characters in this story really pulled me in. In the beginning pages I was drawn to Milly and Isum and had to know how their stories would work out. Their dream of freedom was tangible, and once they experienced it there was no going back.My heart broke on several occasions for Milly,and I could easily understand why she felt God had left her. Phillip was a true gentleman, something that Milly had never experienced in a white man.The author often allowed us to see Phillip's wonderful character from how he handled his relationship with Totka to the way he treated Enoch.
This was one of those stories that had my heart breaking on several occasions, but the author provided an ending that had my spirits soaring.
While "Warring Spirits" is the second book in the Creek County Saga I felt like the author provided enough background information that it could be read as a stand alone work, but honestly it's such a great series your going to want to read both books.
On a scale of one to five I would rate this series a six because it's just that good!
A complimentary copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review.
November 28, 2011
The year is 1816 in the vast, unsettled, southern United States. Slavery is a way of life in the South and many of the Africans held in bondage on plantations have escaped below the border to a place called Negro Fort—their first taste of freedom from their masters. But the United States Army has been assigned to destroy the fort and recapture the slaves. It is here during this difficult military assignment that Major Phillip Bailey is forced to confront the painful memories of a previous war that have left him scarred both physically and emotionally. But his struggles extend to the war waging in his heart for love, as well as the stirring conviction that slavery is an unjust web that entangles his military duty with his sense of morality.
This stirring sequel to "Wounded Spirits" leads the reader to the rugged landscape of 19th century Georgia, and follows again the lives and loves of Adela, Phillip, Totka and others as they struggle not just to survive, but find their place in a world of racial prejudice and alliances between nations that are as fragile and changing as the seasons. This gripping tale by April W. Gardner helps you fully understand the impact of that harsh time on the people in that era. "Warring Spirits" is an exciting and heart-wrenching story of hope, mercy, and love in a world of seeming despair. Wonderful historical fiction with an inspiring element of faith!
This stirring sequel to "Wounded Spirits" leads the reader to the rugged landscape of 19th century Georgia, and follows again the lives and loves of Adela, Phillip, Totka and others as they struggle not just to survive, but find their place in a world of racial prejudice and alliances between nations that are as fragile and changing as the seasons. This gripping tale by April W. Gardner helps you fully understand the impact of that harsh time on the people in that era. "Warring Spirits" is an exciting and heart-wrenching story of hope, mercy, and love in a world of seeming despair. Wonderful historical fiction with an inspiring element of faith!
October 21, 2016
This entire series is probably one of my all time favourites. Who can forget Totka from Book One? Somehow the author manages to sweep us along in an historical tale that is well researched but never seems expository. I loved this book and the entire series and have actually read it more than once! that's how good it is!
September 18, 2017
I have so much love for this series and how the author is able to depict the complexity of vastly different cultures interacting in a fluctuating time of peace and war. The Ebony Cloak further pushes these complex relationships between characters by stepping back from Totka and Copper Woman's story to focus on Captain Bailey, a white soldier, and Milly, a runaway slave.
My only regrets about this book are that I was reluctant to see Totka and Copper Woman only as side characters (I had hoped to read at least one more full novel about them) and that I was not completely sold on Milly's love for Captain Bailey. Though I had no doubt as to his devotion to her, I did question whether her affection was true or if it were only a warped gratitude that a white man would treat her as worthy of being his equal.
Hopefully, both couples will appear in the next three books, and there will be opportunity to see Captain Bailey and Milly's affections deepen.
My only regrets about this book are that I was reluctant to see Totka and Copper Woman only as side characters (I had hoped to read at least one more full novel about them) and that I was not completely sold on Milly's love for Captain Bailey. Though I had no doubt as to his devotion to her, I did question whether her affection was true or if it were only a warped gratitude that a white man would treat her as worthy of being his equal.
Hopefully, both couples will appear in the next three books, and there will be opportunity to see Captain Bailey and Milly's affections deepen.
January 25, 2023
So much going on in this storyline....
First you have Milly and Isum running for their lives, will they escape? Then you have the bluecoates bring to track them with help from the Indians, and Adela is waiting for Totka to return from his duty... Laugh and cry in this one, on to the next.
First you have Milly and Isum running for their lives, will they escape? Then you have the bluecoates bring to track them with help from the Indians, and Adela is waiting for Totka to return from his duty... Laugh and cry in this one, on to the next.
September 13, 2017
Phillip has made the army his career.
What he doesn't see coming is a
beautiful woman who is a slave who
longs for freedom. How can he make
this happen? Will she trust him?
Can their love survive the brutal
honesty of secrets they both
carry? Read the Book!
What he doesn't see coming is a
beautiful woman who is a slave who
longs for freedom. How can he make
this happen? Will she trust him?
Can their love survive the brutal
honesty of secrets they both
carry? Read the Book!
July 2, 2020
Great story, couldn't put it down.
August 26, 2016
First, I just have to state that this author REALLY knows how to write body language, physical description and action of characters, and dialog! I literally could see the images in my head in wonderful 3D, it was that good; I don't know if I've ever read better, not even by Francine Rivers.
OK, so what did I really think? At first, like others, I was disappointed to (somewhat) leave Totka and Copper Woman/Adele behind and focus on Phillip, who had not been very likable, but I was soon sucked into his story of slow transformation and love. Totka wove in and around Phillip's and Milly's story just beautifully.
The plotting of the three novels that make up the Creek Country Saga was intricate and almost flawless. I do have some differences of opinion regarding the timing of the conclusion of Totka and Adele's courtship, but this is minor. Of more importance to me though, was the skipping over of the climax of the two love stories, and going directly to the denouement in an epilogue. The climax being the weddings and wedding nights. Now don't get me wrong here. I don't need or want any x-rated scenes, that's not what I mean. But we have been treated to some serious angst in these three books, and I felt a little cheated not to have the consummations (meaning the completion of their courtships) left out. I wish there had been one more chapter, and the epilogue skipped.
Also, I am seriously wondering how Phillip and Milly even would have married, considering the notorious anti-miscegenation laws of that day, but I admit I don't know much about that subject.
The three novels do need to be re-edited, there were many times that I had to supply a missing word, or reword the sentence, etc...so I hope this will be done someday because I really think this author has a wonderful gift with word pictures and storytelling, and I will definitely read more from her. Five stars despite my quibbles.
PS The covers are lovely!
OK, so what did I really think? At first, like others, I was disappointed to (somewhat) leave Totka and Copper Woman/Adele behind and focus on Phillip, who had not been very likable, but I was soon sucked into his story of slow transformation and love. Totka wove in and around Phillip's and Milly's story just beautifully.
The plotting of the three novels that make up the Creek Country Saga was intricate and almost flawless. I do have some differences of opinion regarding the timing of the conclusion of Totka and Adele's courtship, but this is minor. Of more importance to me though, was the skipping over of the climax of the two love stories, and going directly to the denouement in an epilogue. The climax being the weddings and wedding nights. Now don't get me wrong here. I don't need or want any x-rated scenes, that's not what I mean. But we have been treated to some serious angst in these three books, and I felt a little cheated not to have the consummations (meaning the completion of their courtships) left out. I wish there had been one more chapter, and the epilogue skipped.
Also, I am seriously wondering how Phillip and Milly even would have married, considering the notorious anti-miscegenation laws of that day, but I admit I don't know much about that subject.
The three novels do need to be re-edited, there were many times that I had to supply a missing word, or reword the sentence, etc...so I hope this will be done someday because I really think this author has a wonderful gift with word pictures and storytelling, and I will definitely read more from her. Five stars despite my quibbles.
PS The covers are lovely!
February 13, 2012
Freedom isn't free. That's a lesson Milly knows all too well.
Full of action and adventure, love and racial prejudices, Warring Spirits is not a book to be missed. Even though I haven't read the prequel, I was able to figure out what had happened in the first book and how it effected Warring Spirits. Fraught with tension at every turn, and heart-rending choices, Warring Spirits is emotionally strong, in a way that will grip you until you read the last page.
Every single character was well developed, though not all were of strong moral character. I loved how deep the main characters were and how strong they were. They could have wallowed in the past but they chose to move forward, to push on, even though I wouldn't have blamed if they hadn't. I think my favorite character was True Seeker, because he was a boy who became a man over the course of the book. Not just any man, but an honorable man, who went above and beyond to fufilled his duties. I'm hoping that the third book will be about him!
So overall I'd say that this is a great book for those who like action with their romance, and tons of hold-your-breath-moments full of taunt-as-a-bow-string-tension. A great read through and through. I would make a suggestion though, that this book should not be read by those younger than 16-17 because of a few rape/or almost rape scenes to be aware of. But I loved how just all over awesome this book was! Strong plot, strong characters, great emotional depth, and a great biblical message to never forget that God is there. I highly recommend this book. Thanks!
Final Rating: 5 out of 5
I received this book from teh author in return for an honest review. Thank you!
Full of action and adventure, love and racial prejudices, Warring Spirits is not a book to be missed. Even though I haven't read the prequel, I was able to figure out what had happened in the first book and how it effected Warring Spirits. Fraught with tension at every turn, and heart-rending choices, Warring Spirits is emotionally strong, in a way that will grip you until you read the last page.
Every single character was well developed, though not all were of strong moral character. I loved how deep the main characters were and how strong they were. They could have wallowed in the past but they chose to move forward, to push on, even though I wouldn't have blamed if they hadn't. I think my favorite character was True Seeker, because he was a boy who became a man over the course of the book. Not just any man, but an honorable man, who went above and beyond to fufilled his duties. I'm hoping that the third book will be about him!
So overall I'd say that this is a great book for those who like action with their romance, and tons of hold-your-breath-moments full of taunt-as-a-bow-string-tension. A great read through and through. I would make a suggestion though, that this book should not be read by those younger than 16-17 because of a few rape/or almost rape scenes to be aware of. But I loved how just all over awesome this book was! Strong plot, strong characters, great emotional depth, and a great biblical message to never forget that God is there. I highly recommend this book. Thanks!
Final Rating: 5 out of 5
I received this book from teh author in return for an honest review. Thank you!
August 25, 2016
Thanks April Gardner for my review copy. I finished this book last night and as the book progressed I just couldn't put it down. We have a few stories happening in the one book which are all interconnected. The book starts with Milly and Isum escaping to Negro Fort in Florida, while Philip is part of the army marching to storm the fort and reclaim the slaves to return them to their owners. We also see the Creek Indians working with them to help which is interesting after having fought them in recent history. I hadn't heard of this story and found it interesting. I feel for the Negro's who felt safe in the fort and had found freedom but a freedom the army didn't respect. I often wonder how people could keep slaves but then realise it's easy to sit here in 2012 knowing how evil slavery is but if I had been brought up in the south where slavery was so intrenched would I have felt differently I would hope so but I don't know. The story tells the story of what happened at Negro Fort and what happens in the aftermath. This book deals with ignorance, discrimination, slavery, freedom, and brings to life the issues of the day. I love a book that teaches history and shows the injustice without glossing over it like so many books do. This is a good read that will leave you thinking about the issues.
January 31, 2013
Warring Spirits by April Gardner is superb. It’s one of those books that you really can’t put down once you’re into it. I read it in two days, basically picking it up whenever I had a spare minute – literally. It is the sequel to her novel Wounded Spirits, bringing closure to that book’s romance between a native man and a white woman, and introducing another unlikely pairing between an American soldier and a runaway slave. The series takes place in the early 1800s in the American south during a time of turmoil between various native peoples and the onslaught of American settlement. From an historical point of view, I think she did a fantastic job of presenting the various points of view in a fair and unbiased way. The mix of unvarnished hardship and cruelty that was part of the era is juxtaposed beautifully with heart rending romance and believable characters. There is so much to this book – racism, prejudice, cruelty, graphic scenes of violence and undeniable romance that drives the characters. I loved it. I made me want to read both books again – soon. That to me is the sign of a great book.
October 23, 2011
I had the pleasure of reading this book in advance. April Gardner has a pen, and she knows how to use it! This book was excellent. If you like action, danger, heartache, and intrigue, this is a book for you. Set in the 1800's, follow her characters as they not only fight for their freedom, but fight their own inner demons as well. This isn't your typical historical fiction novel.
Warring spirits -
As soon as you pick up this book, you'll find yourself swept away by April Gardner's excellent story-telling abilities. This is one of those rare tomes that make sleep bothersome. With her haunting characters and rich imagery, she has written a wonderful sequel to Wounded Spirits that won't disappoint! Danger, deceit, heart-breaking pain, and finally, God's sustaining power and grace that helps the suffering overcome hardships, makes this a book you won't want to part with until you've finished reading the very last page. April Gardner is a writer to be watched.
Warring spirits -
As soon as you pick up this book, you'll find yourself swept away by April Gardner's excellent story-telling abilities. This is one of those rare tomes that make sleep bothersome. With her haunting characters and rich imagery, she has written a wonderful sequel to Wounded Spirits that won't disappoint! Danger, deceit, heart-breaking pain, and finally, God's sustaining power and grace that helps the suffering overcome hardships, makes this a book you won't want to part with until you've finished reading the very last page. April Gardner is a writer to be watched.
February 17, 2012
Warring Spirits is the second book in April Gardner's Creek Country Saga, but I felt it was great all on it's own. And since I haven't read the first book, I can say that I don't feel I was missing out having not read Wounded Spirits first.
With suspense, war, and romance, Warring Spirits was very enjoyable to read! I loved the characters and watching their stories unfold. I especially liked Phillip and True Seeker - I'd probably say those two were my favorite characters.
When I was nearing the end of the book, I wasn't sure how it was going to end, but I'm really happy with the way things turned out. If there is another Creek Country book, I would love to read it!
Warring Spirits was a great read that I recommend if you enjoy historical novels! :)
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
With suspense, war, and romance, Warring Spirits was very enjoyable to read! I loved the characters and watching their stories unfold. I especially liked Phillip and True Seeker - I'd probably say those two were my favorite characters.
When I was nearing the end of the book, I wasn't sure how it was going to end, but I'm really happy with the way things turned out. If there is another Creek Country book, I would love to read it!
Warring Spirits was a great read that I recommend if you enjoy historical novels! :)
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
May 12, 2016
The Ebony Cloak, part 3 of the Beneath the Blackberry Moon, is written by April Gardner. I just love the talent that this author shows us through her historical accounts with the fiction flare added to create books that just bloom with greatness!
My favorite character in this book is...Milly AND Phillip! Milly because she was such a brave woman...any way you looked at her, she was just the essence of braveness through all of the difficulties of life that were thrown her way. Phillip...well, he had his issues in other books that didn't endear himself to me, UNTIL this book. Just loved how he finally opened his eyes. I can't go into detail because I so don't want to ruin the reading experience for you, the reader. I just loved how Gardner took these characters and developed them further to make this already great saga even better! I can't wait to get into part 4 and see what's going to happen! Love these books!
I was gifted this book in exchange for my honest review.
My favorite character in this book is...Milly AND Phillip! Milly because she was such a brave woman...any way you looked at her, she was just the essence of braveness through all of the difficulties of life that were thrown her way. Phillip...well, he had his issues in other books that didn't endear himself to me, UNTIL this book. Just loved how he finally opened his eyes. I can't go into detail because I so don't want to ruin the reading experience for you, the reader. I just loved how Gardner took these characters and developed them further to make this already great saga even better! I can't wait to get into part 4 and see what's going to happen! Love these books!
I was gifted this book in exchange for my honest review.
April 12, 2013
I just finished reading WARRING SPIRITS by April W. Gardner.
WOW! What a profoundly moving piece of Literature!
It is a tremendous Historical Romance a man would probably enjoy as much as a woman.
There is plenty of action, adventure, drama, romance and suspense.
Set in the fore part of the 1800s it consists of wars, recuperation, change of heart, forgiveness,
racial prejudices, romance, and is cleanly written.
The author ties situations, time periods, and different characters together so creatively.
It is a must read.
WOW! What a profoundly moving piece of Literature!
It is a tremendous Historical Romance a man would probably enjoy as much as a woman.
There is plenty of action, adventure, drama, romance and suspense.
Set in the fore part of the 1800s it consists of wars, recuperation, change of heart, forgiveness,
racial prejudices, romance, and is cleanly written.
The author ties situations, time periods, and different characters together so creatively.
It is a must read.
April 26, 2016
A wonderful conclusion to Beneath the Blackberry Moon! I love April's writing style and her ability to make history come to life, and she doesn't disappoint with this novel!
A compelling story of standing for what's right in a time when people were judged by the colour of their skin.
While this book is mainly about Philip and Milly, we also meet new characters and continue with Totka and Adela's adventures.
I highly recommend this book and am looking forward to reading more from this author.
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion, which was given.
A compelling story of standing for what's right in a time when people were judged by the colour of their skin.
While this book is mainly about Philip and Milly, we also meet new characters and continue with Totka and Adela's adventures.
I highly recommend this book and am looking forward to reading more from this author.
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion, which was given.
December 17, 2016
Something about this story felt familiar to me, but not all of it. By how long it took me to read you can see I had trouble getting into the story. I didn't like that we suddenly jumped away from Totka and Copper Woman's story even though we knew that they had found one another, we still didn't know if their story was going to work out alright. Halfway through the story I wasn't sure what was going to happen because the main thrust of the story was gone. I spent much of this story wondering where it was going. I like happy endings and I'm glad that this story could give me that.
December 21, 2011
April has improved as a writer since her first book, and she was pretty good to begin with. I don't normally read much historical fiction, and mainly read this one because April is a friend. That being said, I really enjoyed it. It was tightly plotted and gave me a very interesting look at a period of time I don't know much about. The characters were well-rounded and I found myself involved in their story. Overall an excellent sophomore effort.
August 5, 2016
This is nice continuation in the Beneath the Blackberry Moon series that answers my questions of what happened to some of the characters in the previous books. The history, trials and their faith bring out topics that will make you think about living through that war and what that era had to struggle through. I really enjoyed this book and thank the author for the copy to read and review.
September 30, 2012
This was a wonderful story. I love how the author drew me into the story and that there was never a dull moment in this book.I was captivated from the first page until the last page. I loved all the characters and hope she gives True Seeker his own story very soon.
July 22, 2016
A great ending and a longing for the next in the series!
I was thrilled with this book! Great action. The story was well told, I felt like I was there in the swamp and heat with Milly. No matter our race, we are all God's children, and that's sadly lacking in today's culture.
I was thrilled with this book! Great action. The story was well told, I felt like I was there in the swamp and heat with Milly. No matter our race, we are all God's children, and that's sadly lacking in today's culture.
July 29, 2020
Loved the story, intriguing, well written, will continue with the Series!
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