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Wildflower #1
The Secret Sense of Wildflower
"A quietly powerful story, at times harrowing but ultimately a joy to read." - Kirkus Reviews (starred review, "for books of remarkable merit")
Also on Kirkus Reviews' list of Best Books of 2012!
Set in 1940s Appalachia, The Secret Sense of Wildflower tells the story of Louisa May “Wildflower” McAllister whose life has been shaped around the recent death of her beloved father in a sawmill accident. While her mother hardens in her grief, Wildflower and her three sisters must cope with their loss themselves, as well as with the demands of daily survival. Despite these hardships, Wildflower has a resilience that is forged with humor, a love of the land, and an endless supply of questions to God, who she isn't so sure she agrees with. When Johnny Monroe, the town’s teenage ne’er-do-well, sets his sights on Wildflower, she must draw on the strength of her relations, both living and dead, to deal with his threat.
With prose as lush and colorful as the American South, The Secret Sense of Wildflower is powerful and poignant, brimming with energy and angst, humor and hope. In its ability to create a truly original Southern voice, The Secret Sense of Wildflower establishes Gabriel as a thoughtful and powerful Southern writer.
Also on Kirkus Reviews' list of Best Books of 2012!
Set in 1940s Appalachia, The Secret Sense of Wildflower tells the story of Louisa May “Wildflower” McAllister whose life has been shaped around the recent death of her beloved father in a sawmill accident. While her mother hardens in her grief, Wildflower and her three sisters must cope with their loss themselves, as well as with the demands of daily survival. Despite these hardships, Wildflower has a resilience that is forged with humor, a love of the land, and an endless supply of questions to God, who she isn't so sure she agrees with. When Johnny Monroe, the town’s teenage ne’er-do-well, sets his sights on Wildflower, she must draw on the strength of her relations, both living and dead, to deal with his threat.
With prose as lush and colorful as the American South, The Secret Sense of Wildflower is powerful and poignant, brimming with energy and angst, humor and hope. In its ability to create a truly original Southern voice, The Secret Sense of Wildflower establishes Gabriel as a thoughtful and powerful Southern writer.
210 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
952 people are currently reading
1581 people want to read
About the author
Susan Gabriel
15 books194 followersSusan Gabriel is an acclaimed southern author who lives in the mountains of Western North Carolina. Her novels, The Secret Sense of Wildflower (a Kirkus Reviews Best Book of 2012) and Temple Secrets (2015) are Amazon and Nook #1 bestsellers.
Find out more about Susan and her other novels at www.SusanGabriel.com.
Easiest place to contact:
Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/SusanGabriel...
Find out more about Susan and her other novels at www.SusanGabriel.com.
Easiest place to contact:
Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/SusanGabriel...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
January 24, 2013
I actually wrote this book, so I'm very biased.
August 6, 2020
Taking place in the hills of Tennessee, circa 1940, The Secret Sense of Wildflower deals with a young thirteen year old girl. I felt for Wildflower. Her father died from an accident at the lumber mill where he worked. She was so close to her father and misses him horribly. But she’s not at all close to her mother, who seems to have closed herself off from Wildflower after the death of her husband.
The first half of the book is pretty quiet and slow paced. Then, there’s a life changing event and the pace and tone of the book changes. I wasn’t sure where the book would go from there and wasn’t sure what I wanted to happen. I liked how the book handled religion, especially the sense that you’ve been abandoned by God after something bad happens and how one works to ever get comfortable believing again.
That said, the book came across as a little too simple for my taste. Some of the writing was almost poetic, but I wanted a little more heft to the story.
The first half of the book is pretty quiet and slow paced. Then, there’s a life changing event and the pace and tone of the book changes. I wasn’t sure where the book would go from there and wasn’t sure what I wanted to happen. I liked how the book handled religion, especially the sense that you’ve been abandoned by God after something bad happens and how one works to ever get comfortable believing again.
That said, the book came across as a little too simple for my taste. Some of the writing was almost poetic, but I wanted a little more heft to the story.
January 27, 2014
The Secret Sense of Wildflower is powerful and it’ll be hard for me to forget. Usually I love books that I can devour; however I found I couldn’t read large chunks of this at one time. Instead of putting me off, it made me like the story even more. The subject matter is intense.
Louisa May “Wildflower” is the type of character that readers will love. She’s honest, observant, frank, and funny. I love a book that pulls me into the lives of the characters and this one does just that. Wildflower has to contend with a lot in her life and many people would fall to pieces. She’s one tough cookie. As the story progressed I cheered her on. At times I wanted to hug her and to tell her everything would be okay. At other times I wanted to shout at those who were upsetting her. I know I like a book when I start talking to the words on the page like they can hear me.
This is a wonderful story that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer.
Louisa May “Wildflower” is the type of character that readers will love. She’s honest, observant, frank, and funny. I love a book that pulls me into the lives of the characters and this one does just that. Wildflower has to contend with a lot in her life and many people would fall to pieces. She’s one tough cookie. As the story progressed I cheered her on. At times I wanted to hug her and to tell her everything would be okay. At other times I wanted to shout at those who were upsetting her. I know I like a book when I start talking to the words on the page like they can hear me.
This is a wonderful story that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer.
December 8, 2012
Even though it only shows 4 stars, I really give it 4.5 but that is not allowed here on Goodreads.
This is the type of book that I crave to read. It's beautifully written in lyrical prose that I found myself slowing down to re-read. It has such a deep familial core, yet also has a darkness that makes you keep reading.. All of the characters are so true to the era and Appalachian culture and are all very believable. It is a true Southern tale. There are both great relationships and some very difficult ones that add even more layers to this story. Part of what makes it more complex is how Wildflower, while still coming to terms with her father's death and the changes it brought to the entire family, she is now burdened with even more difficult circumstances that cause her to fight even harder for a better life.This is definitely a story that will stay with me for a long while and recommend it highly.
Full review here:
http://southerngal-lisa.blogspot.com/...
This is the type of book that I crave to read. It's beautifully written in lyrical prose that I found myself slowing down to re-read. It has such a deep familial core, yet also has a darkness that makes you keep reading.. All of the characters are so true to the era and Appalachian culture and are all very believable. It is a true Southern tale. There are both great relationships and some very difficult ones that add even more layers to this story. Part of what makes it more complex is how Wildflower, while still coming to terms with her father's death and the changes it brought to the entire family, she is now burdened with even more difficult circumstances that cause her to fight even harder for a better life.This is definitely a story that will stay with me for a long while and recommend it highly.
Full review here:
http://southerngal-lisa.blogspot.com/...
March 4, 2018
I love a book that makes me feel like I'm right in the mix of things, and this book surely accomplished that. The characters seemed real...like friends I've met and will keep in my heart. The conflict fits into the "me too" movement, and the readers find what kind of person WE want to be in a situation where we can choose compassion or judgement. For me, I want to be like Aunt Hattie or Hector Sector, unphased by the opinions of others...just offering what I can to give others hope. I wish I could have taught this novel to high schoolers. It's a story of finding courage and hope in despair and confusion, and the reader will find that most of us experience those moments when we need someone wiser and kinder than us to show us a way to grow.
August 10, 2012
I was pretty blown away by how good this book is. I didn't read it with any expectations, hadn't heard anything about it really, so when I read it, I realized from page one that it is a a well written, powerful book.
As it begins, we learn that Louisa May "Wildflower" and all her sisters have names from the book Little Women. All use those names except for Louisa May, who prefers Wildflower, as that was the name given to her by her beloved father, now deceased. Wildflower mourns the loss of her father everyday, and doesn't understand why her mother is always picking on her. She takes care of the stray cats that live under her house, that her father fed before her, and is kind of like a stray herself, with her mother lost in grief and bothering with Wildflower only when she has a criticism. Her sisters are good and keep an eye on her, and their husbands are protective of Wildflower as well, like true big brothers.
But Wildflower can't be watched 100%; not that she is bad or a troublemaker, but because the mountain is vast and contains its own dangers out of eyesight, such as Johnny Monroe. Johnny is the teenage thug, and while I felt sorry for him at first, my sympathy faded fast. And if you ask my friends, that rarely happens- I often feel sorry for the "bad guy", feeling they were shaped that way by circumstance. Well, Johnny started that way, but Gabriel created a character I can't even feel that sorry for. An event takes places that shakes up Wildflower's world even more, and the remainder of the book is about how she and her family deal with the aftermath.
Wildflower is strong and resilient, much like her name. She took a lot of licks but still kept on going. I also would have had the biggest crush on her older sister Jo's husband Daniel, if I were Wildflower. I definitely did while reading the book! He evidenced himself to be the most thoughtful and kind character, and it was easy to see why the family loved him. I really enjoyed this book, although parts of the book were intense emotionally. The message is one of hope, even when you feel sometimes there isn't any.
As it begins, we learn that Louisa May "Wildflower" and all her sisters have names from the book Little Women. All use those names except for Louisa May, who prefers Wildflower, as that was the name given to her by her beloved father, now deceased. Wildflower mourns the loss of her father everyday, and doesn't understand why her mother is always picking on her. She takes care of the stray cats that live under her house, that her father fed before her, and is kind of like a stray herself, with her mother lost in grief and bothering with Wildflower only when she has a criticism. Her sisters are good and keep an eye on her, and their husbands are protective of Wildflower as well, like true big brothers.
But Wildflower can't be watched 100%; not that she is bad or a troublemaker, but because the mountain is vast and contains its own dangers out of eyesight, such as Johnny Monroe. Johnny is the teenage thug, and while I felt sorry for him at first, my sympathy faded fast. And if you ask my friends, that rarely happens- I often feel sorry for the "bad guy", feeling they were shaped that way by circumstance. Well, Johnny started that way, but Gabriel created a character I can't even feel that sorry for. An event takes places that shakes up Wildflower's world even more, and the remainder of the book is about how she and her family deal with the aftermath.
Wildflower is strong and resilient, much like her name. She took a lot of licks but still kept on going. I also would have had the biggest crush on her older sister Jo's husband Daniel, if I were Wildflower. I definitely did while reading the book! He evidenced himself to be the most thoughtful and kind character, and it was easy to see why the family loved him. I really enjoyed this book, although parts of the book were intense emotionally. The message is one of hope, even when you feel sometimes there isn't any.
September 20, 2012
The Secret Sense of Wildflower is sweet but painful story of a just-turned-13 year old girl and her tragically abrupt leap into adulthood. Set in the east Tennessee mountains in 1941, the book is narrated by Louisa May McAllister, known as Wildflower. Imagine Scout, of To Kill a Mockingbird, a few years older and having lost her beloved father to a terrible accident the year before. She still grieves deeply for him and visits his grave almost daily. She carries on conversations with him and God, trying to understand why he had to die so young. Wildflower's mental wrestling with the Hell-and-damnation "Preacher" at the Missionary Baptist Church is funny and insightful. She relies on her rabbit's foot, her gold medallion of Mary and Baby Jesus (inherited from her Irish Catholic grandmother), and her father's gentle pantheism (thanking the trees and the earth for their service to humans) to get through scary situations. Wildflower's secret sense, a kind of gut feeling, alerts her to be wary of places, people, and events, if she would only listen.
I expected this story to continue as a memoir-like slice of life, showing Wildflower's inner strength as she overcomes the sadness in her life... but a sudden twist in the plot blew me away. Then again, with hindsight I was able to recognize the foreshadowing and hints that led to an inevitable conclusion. I hope I haven't given too much away. Although it sounds like the plot change may have been too jarring to be realistic, nothing could be further from the truth. Life happens just this way, regardless of the rabbit's foot in your pocket.
I enjoyed this book very much and highly recommend it. It is well-written, intensely moving, and will stay with you for a long time.
I expected this story to continue as a memoir-like slice of life, showing Wildflower's inner strength as she overcomes the sadness in her life... but a sudden twist in the plot blew me away. Then again, with hindsight I was able to recognize the foreshadowing and hints that led to an inevitable conclusion. I hope I haven't given too much away. Although it sounds like the plot change may have been too jarring to be realistic, nothing could be further from the truth. Life happens just this way, regardless of the rabbit's foot in your pocket.
I enjoyed this book very much and highly recommend it. It is well-written, intensely moving, and will stay with you for a long time.
July 16, 2012
The Secret Sense of Wildflower is a heartwarming charming tale I couldn't put down. I curled up with Wildflower McAllister narrating her most private thoughts, almost feeling as if I was eavesdropping in on a conversation I wasn't supposed to hear.
The story takes place in the Tennessee mountains during a time remembered as "not the happiest decade--1940's," where Wildflower copes with life's sometimes harsh offerings, one being her father's tragic accident, by tapping into that place few seldom reach--the secret sense. What I really like about the story, outside of the gentle pacing and tone, and that is Wildflower doesn't let you feel sorry for her. She's a strong little girl, and very observant, with a disobedient sense of humor. The world she sees, she's really not supposed to see in the way she observes it, though it's what I really loved that about her; and actually about all of the characters; that being her sisters, Daniel (especially), Johnny's sisters, Sadie, her mother, and of course her father as well.
One of my favorite spots was the part about Max who barked on every occasion but the one time that mattered. Really got tickled by the way that scene was portrayed; a mirror reflection of a wonderfully delicate tale. A rather inspiring intimate experience to say the least.
The story takes place in the Tennessee mountains during a time remembered as "not the happiest decade--1940's," where Wildflower copes with life's sometimes harsh offerings, one being her father's tragic accident, by tapping into that place few seldom reach--the secret sense. What I really like about the story, outside of the gentle pacing and tone, and that is Wildflower doesn't let you feel sorry for her. She's a strong little girl, and very observant, with a disobedient sense of humor. The world she sees, she's really not supposed to see in the way she observes it, though it's what I really loved that about her; and actually about all of the characters; that being her sisters, Daniel (especially), Johnny's sisters, Sadie, her mother, and of course her father as well.
One of my favorite spots was the part about Max who barked on every occasion but the one time that mattered. Really got tickled by the way that scene was portrayed; a mirror reflection of a wonderfully delicate tale. A rather inspiring intimate experience to say the least.
January 27, 2016
Louisa May prefers the name Wildflower, not only because it makes her feel independent and free but it's the name her daddy called her. And her daddy is dead. In the Appalachian hills in the 40s, it's no easy thing to survive without a man in the house and Wildflower's mama feels the strain. Only one thing weighs on Wildflower's mind as much as her daddy: Johnny Monroe. Mean as a mad dog, Johnny's got it out for Wildflower and Wildflower knows it, even though the people she tells don't believe it. One poor choice, one unintended consequence, one chance for Wildflower to decide if she's truly as powerful as she once believed she could be.
Told in Wildflowers voice, this book feels nice and settled in an older time and place. I liked the relationships between Wildflower and her sisters and aunts and brothers-in-law, she is so grounded in her family. It's a painful story, about the rifts that can arise between mothers and daughters and about forgiveness and redemption. Sometimes Wildflower's inner dialogue felt a little repetitive and obvious, and the content is intense but one scene at the end did actually bring tears to my eyes, so it gets four stars for really making me feel something.
Told in Wildflowers voice, this book feels nice and settled in an older time and place. I liked the relationships between Wildflower and her sisters and aunts and brothers-in-law, she is so grounded in her family. It's a painful story, about the rifts that can arise between mothers and daughters and about forgiveness and redemption. Sometimes Wildflower's inner dialogue felt a little repetitive and obvious, and the content is intense but one scene at the end did actually bring tears to my eyes, so it gets four stars for really making me feel something.
June 7, 2012
I enjoyed Gabriel's first novel, Seeking Sara Summers. The Secret Sense of Wildflower is quite a departure, or perhaps demonstrates the breadth of Gabriel's abilities. It also shows her depth, as the writing is very solid. The novel is set in 1940's Appalachia and is full of humor mixed in with a serious theme. Wildflower (her nickname) is a spunky teen whose beloved father died a year or so ago and she and her mother and three sisters forge their way without their man. A local boy, Johnny Monroe is one of those mountain cretins you don't want to meet (think Deliverance) and he and Wildflower have a dramatic encounter. I don't want to reveal the storyline, but I recommend this to those who are tired of badly written novels and want a lyrical, suspenseful story that is hard to forget.
December 11, 2014
I would like to start off saying that Johnny is one bad egg! I really liked the book. I felt bad for Wildflower, she's just having such a hard time ever since her dad passed away. I like Daniel, and that he keeps an eye out for Wildflower like a father figure. It doesn't really say but I hope that Victor and Wildflower end up together. He does nice things for her and he didn't treat her any different then before after the incident with Johnny.
July 2, 2012
I loved this story about a courageous young lady who endures tragedy but exudes a gritty, southern determination and wisdom beyond her years. Throughout the story, I found myself admiring the protagonist's compassion for others even after what she endures and after so many do not afford her the same consideration. She provides a very positive and strong role model.
October 28, 2015
I liked the writing style.
On each page I watched for descriptive phrases; such as "time drags on like a wagon stuck in mud," "she sighs like I have crawled all over her grief wearing dirty shoes," and "the wind in the trees sounds like old widow women gossiping in the back of a church."
The story itself was engaging and I liked Wildflower. I will watch for the sequel.
On each page I watched for descriptive phrases; such as "time drags on like a wagon stuck in mud," "she sighs like I have crawled all over her grief wearing dirty shoes," and "the wind in the trees sounds like old widow women gossiping in the back of a church."
The story itself was engaging and I liked Wildflower. I will watch for the sequel.
July 5, 2012
This book made me very grateful for the things I have and the things I won't have to endure. It taught me how real life is, outside my sheltered home. Most of all, I learned how hard it is to feel safe when you know for sure you're not. Don't ever let anyone take advantage of you.
October 22, 2014
Well written quick read. A little on the whinnies side, but I enjoyed it.
Done in an afternoon
Done in an afternoon
January 15, 2015
Wow!! That was a quick read!! While its a sad story, I loved the characters. I highly recommend the book to anyone!that likes books about life in Appalachian.
June 28, 2020
I was initially disappointed when this book came to me from Amazon, because when I opened it and started reading the forward pages I realized it was self-published. I make it a habit to ensure books I purchase are published by a known publishing house because I have been burned by several very shoddily written self-published stories. And, as is typical with self-published books, there were numerous grammatical errors and problems with continuity of a few passages, but overall it's a good story and the gutsy, outspoken protagonist was someone I could identify with.
December 4, 2017
Don’t be put off by the cover! This is a lovely, poignant though sad, story, with beautiful, sensual writing, bringing you right into the world of 1940s Appalachia. I hesitated because the cover makes it look like a romance novel - it is not that in the least. I listened to the audio version – really worth it –as it’s read by the author whose deep warm voice and slightly southern accent greatly enhances the story.
January 3, 2024
Loved this book! The author has a unique descriptive writing style that grabs your attention. “Wildflower” is very wise in an innocent sort of way, and she’s not afraid to call things as she perceives them. She is also a very strong little girl who proves to be resilient even when she is faced with some of life’s most unfortunate and tragic experiences. Super good read!
May 7, 2018
Passionate and full of emotions. Worth the read. Looking forward to the sequel.
May 25, 2018
I just finished listening to The Secret Sense of Wildflower on Audible. I am a 58-year-old grandmother, and this story drew me in - to the point that I was a pregnant 13-year-old in a 1940's Appalachian mountain county. I laughed and cried with Wildflower. I held my breath in fear of what was coming, and I am sitting here wanting to know the rest of her story. I can't wait to get the next book in the series!
July 15, 2020
This was a delightful, entertaining book to read. This is a southern story, for which the author specializes - this time in Appalachia - eastern TN in 1940. The main character, Wildflower, is 13, and grieves terribly over the death of her father. Then a life changing event happens to her ( no spoilers) and she is such an evolving, interesting character. Good entertaining book, although I feel this author is kind of simplistic and light in her style
March 11, 2016
I started reading this book and could not put it down. I enjoyed it from start to finish. Wildflower is a sweet innocent young girl who lost her dad to a sawmill accident and she loved him so very much. She visited his grave and talked to him all the time.
Wildflower, whose real name was Louisa May McAllister, got her nickname from her dad. She is so sweet and innocent you will fall in love with her from the start. She sees life like it is and doesn't really care who she puts straight at times. She is strong willed and has a nature that you will love. You will root for her throughout the story and get angry at people who hurt her. She does endure a lot for such a young girl and still looks at life in a way that would be hard for most adults.
I loved her Aunt Sadie. She was so good and kind and loves Wildflower very much. She is a midwife and collects herbs to help people when they are sick. Wildflower loves her very much too and loves being with her.
I was not to crazy about Wildflowers mom for a long time and I detested Johnny Monroe with all my heart. He wanted Wildflower and would do anything to get her. Her sister's husband, Daniel was a very sweet man who took care of her and put Johnny Monroe in his place. But that didn't stop him. Johnny Monroe was a bad seed for sure.
Even in her darkest hour, Wildflower did not give up on life. She gave up on a few things but not on her life. She is such a strong girl and you will love her. I could picture exactly what I thought she would look like along with the other characters in this story.
It touched my heart in many ways. Made me feel so sorry for Wildflower and her family when tragedy hit. Made me cry in parts that were just to mean for any young girl to have to go through even though she came out on top and didn't let anything get her down.
The ending came much to quickly and I can't wait to read the next book. I loved this story from the first to the last. It has stayed with me for several days and will for a long time to come.
Beautifully written and told in such a way that you just can't forget it. This story flowed beautifully all the way through and I could picture the mountains, trees and the house where she and her mom and sisters lived. A wonderful story. A must read.
Wildflower, whose real name was Louisa May McAllister, got her nickname from her dad. She is so sweet and innocent you will fall in love with her from the start. She sees life like it is and doesn't really care who she puts straight at times. She is strong willed and has a nature that you will love. You will root for her throughout the story and get angry at people who hurt her. She does endure a lot for such a young girl and still looks at life in a way that would be hard for most adults.
I loved her Aunt Sadie. She was so good and kind and loves Wildflower very much. She is a midwife and collects herbs to help people when they are sick. Wildflower loves her very much too and loves being with her.
I was not to crazy about Wildflowers mom for a long time and I detested Johnny Monroe with all my heart. He wanted Wildflower and would do anything to get her. Her sister's husband, Daniel was a very sweet man who took care of her and put Johnny Monroe in his place. But that didn't stop him. Johnny Monroe was a bad seed for sure.
Even in her darkest hour, Wildflower did not give up on life. She gave up on a few things but not on her life. She is such a strong girl and you will love her. I could picture exactly what I thought she would look like along with the other characters in this story.
It touched my heart in many ways. Made me feel so sorry for Wildflower and her family when tragedy hit. Made me cry in parts that were just to mean for any young girl to have to go through even though she came out on top and didn't let anything get her down.
The ending came much to quickly and I can't wait to read the next book. I loved this story from the first to the last. It has stayed with me for several days and will for a long time to come.
Beautifully written and told in such a way that you just can't forget it. This story flowed beautifully all the way through and I could picture the mountains, trees and the house where she and her mom and sisters lived. A wonderful story. A must read.
October 13, 2012
First off, I love to read books that take place in 1940's Appalachian Mountains. When the author asked if I would like to review, I jumped at the chance.
Wildflower is the nick name given to her by her father. He recently passed away, from a sawmill accident and she, and her family are still mourning his death. Wildflower is the youngest, at 13.
Wildflower's originally named, Louisa for the characters in Little Women. Her sister's are named from the March girls, Jo, and Meg, etc.
Wildflower, and her family have lived up in the mountains for many generations, and passed down.
They are dirt poor, without inside plumbing, with a out house included. Wildflower, has a secret sense when something is wrong.
On the anniversary of her father's death she visits her father's grave. She encounters trouble, and she senses something. Her intuition is usually right. There, at the grave she encounters Johnny Monroe.
He comes from a uncaring father. He recently lost his sister, Ruby from suicide. His mother died years ago.
I am not going give out any more, for fear of ruining the story.
The story, is about healing, faith, g-d, the secrets you keep, and eventually tell, and the love of family.
The only criticism I have. The author was telling the story about Johnny, and Wildflower.
She Jumped from the attack of Wildflower, and Johnny and jumped to the death of her father that happened a year ago. It interrupted the flow, I am wondering why?
I think a straight narrative instead of going back to her father's death. The author could have set up the father's death when she is setting up the story.
Reading a story from a young adolescents voice was a change. Reminded me of reading, another book, Searching for Cee-Cee Honeycutt, which I enjoyed.
While reading, I did my own research on the Appalachian culture.
I enjoyed reading It is not a happy tale, it is not light reading. but it does have a powerful message.
I would not recommend if you are going through hard times.
Wildflower is the nick name given to her by her father. He recently passed away, from a sawmill accident and she, and her family are still mourning his death. Wildflower is the youngest, at 13.
Wildflower's originally named, Louisa for the characters in Little Women. Her sister's are named from the March girls, Jo, and Meg, etc.
Wildflower, and her family have lived up in the mountains for many generations, and passed down.
They are dirt poor, without inside plumbing, with a out house included. Wildflower, has a secret sense when something is wrong.
On the anniversary of her father's death she visits her father's grave. She encounters trouble, and she senses something. Her intuition is usually right. There, at the grave she encounters Johnny Monroe.
He comes from a uncaring father. He recently lost his sister, Ruby from suicide. His mother died years ago.
I am not going give out any more, for fear of ruining the story.
The story, is about healing, faith, g-d, the secrets you keep, and eventually tell, and the love of family.
The only criticism I have. The author was telling the story about Johnny, and Wildflower.
She Jumped from the attack of Wildflower, and Johnny and jumped to the death of her father that happened a year ago. It interrupted the flow, I am wondering why?
I think a straight narrative instead of going back to her father's death. The author could have set up the father's death when she is setting up the story.
Reading a story from a young adolescents voice was a change. Reminded me of reading, another book, Searching for Cee-Cee Honeycutt, which I enjoyed.
While reading, I did my own research on the Appalachian culture.
I enjoyed reading It is not a happy tale, it is not light reading. but it does have a powerful message.
I would not recommend if you are going through hard times.
October 11, 2012
This is a really powerful story. The situation in the book would be hard for anyone to deal with. Louisa May "Wildflower" is a force to contend with. You will fall in love with her. She's so young but she's already been through so much. 1940s Appalachia isn't the easiest place to live in in the first place but with everything that Wildflower deals with in the book, it's even worse.
I really love when you read a book and get so involved with the characters in the book that you don't want the book to end. This is exactly how I felt about Wildflower. She's a tough girl. I know that a lot of people would crumble under the pressure that she's under. After her beloved father's death, Wildflower's family is struggling. Her mother isn't the same and absolutely refuses to address her own sadness over her husband's untimely death. Wildflower deals with her father's death in her own way, which eventually leads to trouble. I really felt for her throughout the book.
The story is told from the point of view of Wildflower, which really makes the story even more powerful. I thought the author did a great job of capturing Wildflower. In some ways, she's wise beyond her years, which makes her incredibly strong and resilient. In other ways, she is still very much a 14 year old girl. At that age, it's easy to think that you're really invincible and this is exactly what gets Wildflower into trouble but her strength and resilience is what helps her find her way back.
I also liked the setting of the book. I haven't read a whole lot of books set in Appalachia. Living in Maryland, Appalachia really is not too far away from me but I don't know too much about it. You definitely get a good sense of how hard people had it then in this story. There is a lot of good historical detail about what life was like and how people lived.
Bottom line: A great story about a strong character!
I really love when you read a book and get so involved with the characters in the book that you don't want the book to end. This is exactly how I felt about Wildflower. She's a tough girl. I know that a lot of people would crumble under the pressure that she's under. After her beloved father's death, Wildflower's family is struggling. Her mother isn't the same and absolutely refuses to address her own sadness over her husband's untimely death. Wildflower deals with her father's death in her own way, which eventually leads to trouble. I really felt for her throughout the book.
The story is told from the point of view of Wildflower, which really makes the story even more powerful. I thought the author did a great job of capturing Wildflower. In some ways, she's wise beyond her years, which makes her incredibly strong and resilient. In other ways, she is still very much a 14 year old girl. At that age, it's easy to think that you're really invincible and this is exactly what gets Wildflower into trouble but her strength and resilience is what helps her find her way back.
I also liked the setting of the book. I haven't read a whole lot of books set in Appalachia. Living in Maryland, Appalachia really is not too far away from me but I don't know too much about it. You definitely get a good sense of how hard people had it then in this story. There is a lot of good historical detail about what life was like and how people lived.
Bottom line: A great story about a strong character!
June 9, 2013
The Secret Sense of Wildflower follows a year in the life of Wildflower, a 13-year-old girl growing up in the Tennessee mountains in the 1940s who possess a secret sixth sense. After an accident kills her father, Wildflower struggles between moving on with her life and not forgetting her father. During one of her frequent trips to visit his grave, Johnny, the town’s ever lurking bad seed, moves beyond his usual threats and attacks Wildflower in the woods. Wildflower wakes up days later covered in scrapes, bruises, and hand prints and with no trace left of her secret sense. With the help of her wonderful, eccentric Aunt Sadie and her caring brother-in-law, Daniel, Wildflower moves beyond her injuries and fears and regains her secret sense.
The Secret Sense of Wildflower is a fantastic read albeit a very emotional read. Susan Gabriel captures Wildflower’s voice amazingly well and evokes more empathy than pity from the reader. Wildflower is every bit a 13-year-old girl yet she managers to handle these horrific tragedies with steadfast resolve. She is truly a character to look up to. Gabriel provides amazing detail throughout the book and writes in beautiful prose– “Mama breaks from her trance and lays Daddy’s hand down like it is a robin’s egg she is returning to a nest….The crowd is as thick as church on Easter Sunday, except without the hop of resurrection.” The author excellently weaves details in her story without the reader even realizing how much information is being provided. Her struggles and triumphs are described with grace, especially notable given the horrific event that happens to young Wildflower at the hands of Johnny.
Overall this is a great book and the remarkable writing really makes it an exceptional read.
www.calamusworks.com/blog
The Secret Sense of Wildflower is a fantastic read albeit a very emotional read. Susan Gabriel captures Wildflower’s voice amazingly well and evokes more empathy than pity from the reader. Wildflower is every bit a 13-year-old girl yet she managers to handle these horrific tragedies with steadfast resolve. She is truly a character to look up to. Gabriel provides amazing detail throughout the book and writes in beautiful prose– “Mama breaks from her trance and lays Daddy’s hand down like it is a robin’s egg she is returning to a nest….The crowd is as thick as church on Easter Sunday, except without the hop of resurrection.” The author excellently weaves details in her story without the reader even realizing how much information is being provided. Her struggles and triumphs are described with grace, especially notable given the horrific event that happens to young Wildflower at the hands of Johnny.
Overall this is a great book and the remarkable writing really makes it an exceptional read.
www.calamusworks.com/blog
July 16, 2012
The Secret Sense of Wildflower had me hooked from almost the beginning. Louisa May, aka Wildflower, is such a compelling character. From the start of the novel, it was clear that she was more mature than her age, which I think is a blessing considering all the grown-up issues she has to deal with as the novel continues on. Wildflower was a strong young-woman and I couldn't help but be on her side no matter what issue arose next.
The fast paced plot really had me turning the pages, though. The Secret Sense of Wildflower is a definite coming-of-age novel. Wildflower has to do a lot of growing up the year after her father dies in a tragic accident, but as that one year anniversary of his death arrives she has to deal with even more serious issues. I don't want to spoil the plot, when when the town ruffian sets his sights on her, it's obvious something terrible is going to happen. I can't remember the last time I met such a vile character in a book - I loved to hate him. At the same time, I had such protective feelings for Wildflower. I cried right along with her, I genuinely felt for her and that's why this novel gets four out of five stars from me. It was a very powerful read. This short novel really packs a punch.
If you liked Little Women or if you love historical fiction and coming-of-age novels, this is the book for you. Definitely add The Secret Sense of Wildflower to your TBR pile; you won't regret it.
...more YA reviews at pandareads.com
The fast paced plot really had me turning the pages, though. The Secret Sense of Wildflower is a definite coming-of-age novel. Wildflower has to do a lot of growing up the year after her father dies in a tragic accident, but as that one year anniversary of his death arrives she has to deal with even more serious issues. I don't want to spoil the plot, when when the town ruffian sets his sights on her, it's obvious something terrible is going to happen. I can't remember the last time I met such a vile character in a book - I loved to hate him. At the same time, I had such protective feelings for Wildflower. I cried right along with her, I genuinely felt for her and that's why this novel gets four out of five stars from me. It was a very powerful read. This short novel really packs a punch.
If you liked Little Women or if you love historical fiction and coming-of-age novels, this is the book for you. Definitely add The Secret Sense of Wildflower to your TBR pile; you won't regret it.
...more YA reviews at pandareads.com
July 20, 2015
But how do you get over Heaven turning its back on you? This moving question comes from Wildflower, the young innocent girl, after she suffers unimaginable trauma. When her faith is put to the ultimate test, Wildflower asks the question many have asked. Why do bad things happen to some while others seem to escape suffering? This book is poignant, earthy, and real. The era is 1940's, and this family are simple country people trying to survive after losing the head of their family, Wildflower's father. The loss is especially hard on Wildflower, the baby girl of the family. Twelve when her father dies in an accident she is still grieving the parent she was closest to. This story goes deep into the heart and soul of a thirteen year old girl trying to cope with loss, and a mother who she struggles to love and understand. Wonderful! There is a sequel in the works, but somehow I can't imagine it getting any better than this.
January 18, 2018
This was a good story but I think it could have been better. My first issue hit me as soon as I started reading this book. There is not a hint of an accent in any of the dialog. I didn't find this credible considering where the people lived. The voices just didn't sound authentic to me and that bothered me for a long time. About 100 pages in, I finally forgot about it.
The other problem I had was with the ending. It was rather abrupt and didn't resolve to the extent I thought it should have. It almost felt as though the author was late for her deadline and had to finish quickly. I would have liked to have known more about her relationship with her mother and also with, well, can't say more without spoiling it for people who haven't read it yet.
Let's just say I think the author missed an opportunity to write a really good book by ending it so abruptly.
The other problem I had was with the ending. It was rather abrupt and didn't resolve to the extent I thought it should have. It almost felt as though the author was late for her deadline and had to finish quickly. I would have liked to have known more about her relationship with her mother and also with, well, can't say more without spoiling it for people who haven't read it yet.
Let's just say I think the author missed an opportunity to write a really good book by ending it so abruptly.
June 27, 2016
I enjoyed Gabriel's first novel, Seeking Sara Summers. The Secret Sense of Wildflower is quite a departure, or perhaps demonstrates the breadth of Gabriel's abilities. It also shows her depth, as the writing is very solid. The novel is set in 1940's Appalachia and is full of humor mixed in with a serious theme. Wildflower (her nickname) is a spunky teen whose beloved father died a year or so ago and she and her mother and three sisters forge their way without their man. A local boy, Johnny Monroe is one of those mountain cretins you don't want to meet (think Deliverance) and he and Wildflower have a dramatic encounter. I don't want to reveal the storyline, but I recommend this to those who are tired of badly written novels and want a lyrical, suspenseful story that is hard to forget.
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