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Essie’s Roses #1
Essie's Roses
#1 Amazon bestseller. Readers' Favorite Silver Medal Winner Best Southern Fiction. A sweeping, moving historical novel set before the Civil War about secrets, freedom, and the power of love.
Growing up in the Deep South during the years leading to the Civil War, two young girls find freedom on a hillside overlooking Westland, an Alabama plantation. Essie Mae, an intuitive, intelligent slave girl, and Evie Winthrop, the sheltered, imaginative dreamer and planter’s daughter, strike up a secret friendship that thrives amidst the shadows of abuse.
Told from the viewpoint of four women: Katherine Winthrop, kind mistress and unexpected heiress to her father’s small, cotton plantation; Delly, her sassy and beloved house slave; Essie Mae, her slave girl; and Evie Winthrop, Katherine’s only child, Essie’s Roses tells of forbidden relationships flourishing in secret behind Westland’s protective trees and treasured roses.
After scandal befalls Westland, Evie and Essie, aged nineteen, travel to Richmond, Virginia, to escape their abusive pasts. There, they face the gross indecencies and divisions leading to the War Between the States. Though the horrors of slavery and discrimination prompt action, Evie and Essie’s struggles lie within. The secrets they hold and the pain of the past lead them away from one another and back home again.
A story about a black slave who frees a white woman, Essie’s Roses reveals the diverse meanings of freedom, the significance of a dream, and the power of love. In their efforts to save each other, will the women of Westland find the true freedom they desire?
"Impressively well written from beginning to end, Essie's Roses is an inherently absorbing and skillfully presented read, establishing author Michelle Muriel as an exceptionally talented novelist." -Midwest Book Review
"...tremendously impressive debut novel ... A richly moving reading experience." -Historical Novel Society
Growing up in the Deep South during the years leading to the Civil War, two young girls find freedom on a hillside overlooking Westland, an Alabama plantation. Essie Mae, an intuitive, intelligent slave girl, and Evie Winthrop, the sheltered, imaginative dreamer and planter’s daughter, strike up a secret friendship that thrives amidst the shadows of abuse.
Told from the viewpoint of four women: Katherine Winthrop, kind mistress and unexpected heiress to her father’s small, cotton plantation; Delly, her sassy and beloved house slave; Essie Mae, her slave girl; and Evie Winthrop, Katherine’s only child, Essie’s Roses tells of forbidden relationships flourishing in secret behind Westland’s protective trees and treasured roses.
After scandal befalls Westland, Evie and Essie, aged nineteen, travel to Richmond, Virginia, to escape their abusive pasts. There, they face the gross indecencies and divisions leading to the War Between the States. Though the horrors of slavery and discrimination prompt action, Evie and Essie’s struggles lie within. The secrets they hold and the pain of the past lead them away from one another and back home again.
A story about a black slave who frees a white woman, Essie’s Roses reveals the diverse meanings of freedom, the significance of a dream, and the power of love. In their efforts to save each other, will the women of Westland find the true freedom they desire?
"Impressively well written from beginning to end, Essie's Roses is an inherently absorbing and skillfully presented read, establishing author Michelle Muriel as an exceptionally talented novelist." -Midwest Book Review
"...tremendously impressive debut novel ... A richly moving reading experience." -Historical Novel Society
346 pages, Hardcover
First published March 23, 2015
About the author
Michelle Muriel
3 books204 followersMICHELLE MURIEL is the award-winning, bestselling author of the #1 historical fiction bestseller ESSIE’S ROSES, WESTLAND (Essie’s Roses 2), and WATER LILY DANCE. Michelle holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts, magna cum laude, and worked as a professional actress, a member of Actors' Equity and The American Federation of Television and Radio Artists for twenty years, doing theater, voice-over, and commercial work. Michelle transferred her skills in complex character development and historical research into writing heartbreaking, heart-mending historical, literary fiction. Her novels poetically explore the secret sides of life, stories told from multiple points of view by strong female characters in history harboring secrets and breaking norms fighting for freedom. She is also a songwriter and musician. Michelle lives in Missouri with her husband. To learn more about Michelle and her books, visit the author's website: MichelleMuriel.com
#1 Amazon Kindle Bestseller
Readers’ Favorite Silver Medal Winner Southern Fiction
Top 100 Amazon Bestseller
You can learn more about me at https://www.michellemuriel.com
#1 Amazon Kindle Bestseller
Readers’ Favorite Silver Medal Winner Southern Fiction
Top 100 Amazon Bestseller
You can learn more about me at https://www.michellemuriel.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
July 17, 2023
I'm not able to write an extensive review at the moment, but I loved this book. The prose could be flowery (pun not intended) at times but was beautiful.
January 12, 2022
I read this book years ago (2015 to be exact), but when I saw the sequel was finally being released, I re-read this one so it would be fresh in my mind; and I'm so glad I did, as I loved it even more the second time I read it.
This is an incredible debut work that takes place in 1840's Alabama and centers around the lives of four women: Katherine Winthrop, the owner of Westland Plantation; Delly, her long-term house slave and confidant; Katherine’s daughter, Evie; and Essie Mae, a young slave girl, whose mother is Katherine's childhood friend, and who just so happened to be born on the same night as Evie. The storyline is one of forbidden relationships flourishing in secret behind Westland’s famous willow trees and infamous roses.
Evie and Essie Mae become fast friends, but as they approach their teen years, the world around them turns dark, not only with the Civil War looming, but at Westland as well. After scandal hits Westland in an unthinkable way, Evie and Essie travel to Richmond to escape their scarring pasts. Even when the horrors of slavery and discrimination threaten them, Evie and Essie Mae’s greatest struggles still lie within each of them. The secrets they hold and the pain of the past lead them away from one another and eventually back home again.
Muriel does a fantastic job of moving this extremely complex, multi-part story forward in a way that is both slow-moving but yet powerful . Her characters are vivid and unforgettable. The story is told through the POVs of the four women: Katie, Delly, Evie, and Essie, but it is heavily focused on the friendship and drama surrounding Essie and Evie as they grow up and understand the dramatically different worlds that they were born into. Unspeakable acts happen to both girls that broke my heart. To be honest, it was difficult to stomach at times - the cruelty and the hypocrisy that existed in the pre-civil war days is mind-blowing, but the strength of the human spirit to overcome is also prevalent and makes a powerful statement in this book. I truly found myself transported back in time and becoming lost in the lives of these four women. The only minor complaint I had was that some of the names were just too similar - Evie, Essie, John, James. I remember when I read it the first time, I had to constantly look back to keep them straight.
The sequel, "Westland" was just released and is definitely not a standalone. This one is a must-read to fully appreciate the sequel. If you love historical fiction/Civil War fiction, these two books are not to miss. All the stars.
This is an incredible debut work that takes place in 1840's Alabama and centers around the lives of four women: Katherine Winthrop, the owner of Westland Plantation; Delly, her long-term house slave and confidant; Katherine’s daughter, Evie; and Essie Mae, a young slave girl, whose mother is Katherine's childhood friend, and who just so happened to be born on the same night as Evie. The storyline is one of forbidden relationships flourishing in secret behind Westland’s famous willow trees and infamous roses.
Evie and Essie Mae become fast friends, but as they approach their teen years, the world around them turns dark, not only with the Civil War looming, but at Westland as well. After scandal hits Westland in an unthinkable way, Evie and Essie travel to Richmond to escape their scarring pasts. Even when the horrors of slavery and discrimination threaten them, Evie and Essie Mae’s greatest struggles still lie within each of them. The secrets they hold and the pain of the past lead them away from one another and eventually back home again.
Muriel does a fantastic job of moving this extremely complex, multi-part story forward in a way that is both slow-moving but yet powerful . Her characters are vivid and unforgettable. The story is told through the POVs of the four women: Katie, Delly, Evie, and Essie, but it is heavily focused on the friendship and drama surrounding Essie and Evie as they grow up and understand the dramatically different worlds that they were born into. Unspeakable acts happen to both girls that broke my heart. To be honest, it was difficult to stomach at times - the cruelty and the hypocrisy that existed in the pre-civil war days is mind-blowing, but the strength of the human spirit to overcome is also prevalent and makes a powerful statement in this book. I truly found myself transported back in time and becoming lost in the lives of these four women. The only minor complaint I had was that some of the names were just too similar - Evie, Essie, John, James. I remember when I read it the first time, I had to constantly look back to keep them straight.
The sequel, "Westland" was just released and is definitely not a standalone. This one is a must-read to fully appreciate the sequel. If you love historical fiction/Civil War fiction, these two books are not to miss. All the stars.
March 27, 2015
Reviewed on behalf of Readers' Favorite
Essie's Roses: A Novel by Michelle Muriel is a historical fiction novel set in the South during the years leading up to the American Civil War. Essie, a slave, is born on the plantation Westland at the same time as the plantation owner, Katie Winthrop, births a little girl named Evie. Mysterious circumstances surround Essie's parentage, as her mother dies in birth. Evie's father loved Essie's mother, so they must hide the small girl. Against odds, Essie and Evie forge a deep friendship, surpassing race lines and cultural norms of the time. However, Evie's father is a horrible man and things come to pass that could change the girls' lives forever. Will they be able to overcome all the societal pressures and truly find freedom?
Miss Muriel's novel is a thing of beauty. I loved the changing perspectives. It was refreshing to see various points of view of the same story, and the author did it seamlessly, keeping the flow of the story going. I also enjoyed seeing a story set before the Civil War. I find the whole era fascinating so it was a well-written prelude to a bloody war. I could tell the author took a great deal of time researching the era, and that is something I always appreciate in a historical novel. Overall, Essie's Roses: A Novel will make you laugh and cry, but most of all, appreciate the innocence of children's friendship. Michelle Muriel should be very proud of her accomplishment in this novel and I will happily recommend it on to others.
Essie's Roses: A Novel by Michelle Muriel is a historical fiction novel set in the South during the years leading up to the American Civil War. Essie, a slave, is born on the plantation Westland at the same time as the plantation owner, Katie Winthrop, births a little girl named Evie. Mysterious circumstances surround Essie's parentage, as her mother dies in birth. Evie's father loved Essie's mother, so they must hide the small girl. Against odds, Essie and Evie forge a deep friendship, surpassing race lines and cultural norms of the time. However, Evie's father is a horrible man and things come to pass that could change the girls' lives forever. Will they be able to overcome all the societal pressures and truly find freedom?
Miss Muriel's novel is a thing of beauty. I loved the changing perspectives. It was refreshing to see various points of view of the same story, and the author did it seamlessly, keeping the flow of the story going. I also enjoyed seeing a story set before the Civil War. I find the whole era fascinating so it was a well-written prelude to a bloody war. I could tell the author took a great deal of time researching the era, and that is something I always appreciate in a historical novel. Overall, Essie's Roses: A Novel will make you laugh and cry, but most of all, appreciate the innocence of children's friendship. Michelle Muriel should be very proud of her accomplishment in this novel and I will happily recommend it on to others.
May 24, 2015
I've finally finished reading Essie’s Roses and all I can say is – wow, what an amazing read. What a well-written, completely believable and insightful book.
Essie’s Roses is a ‘fictional’ novel, yet it encompasses the same importance of message, and will certainly remind readers of their intrinsic knowledge of right versus wrong with the same quiet strength of conviction that Harriet Beecher Stowe provided to her readers when she wrote Uncle Tom’s Cabin.
Additionally though, this book is so much more than just that. Essie’s Roses is the beautifully poignant tale of two girls; one white, the other colored – who grow up together (but still separate) during the mid-1800s. This is the story of their heartfelt and true love for one another. An accounting showing how they are each able to overcome the odds of the lives they have been born into. For even though slavery (the subjugation of an entire race due only to the ‘infraction’ of being born a different color) was commonly accepted as ‘right’ during our country’s younger years; Essie’s Roses will force the reader to look even further beyond that misconception – in order to acknowledge that there are many additional forms of slavery; and that they each stem from cruelty, coupled with a complete and utter disregard for the pricelessness of another human’s soul.
In Essie’s Roses, the reader will begin his/her literary journey with a very poignant show of love – as a young colored girl named, Essie Mae seeks to save the life of her (white) best-friend, Evie Winthrop. Essie Mae also understands that to be caught would result in the loss of her own life, but she cannot – no, more importantly will not; leave her best friend to suffer alone.
From here, Essie’s Roses continues – providing the reader with a brief glimpse into the lives of the mothers who birthed these two girls, before the story again moves forward and focuses on each one of the two very different, yet very similar, lives of Essie Mae and Evie.
While I could provide the potential reader with additional information about this amazing and riveting novel – I choose not to. The power of the words and the story found within Essie’s Roses needs to be discovered by the reader for her/himself.
In summary, Michelle Muriel has penned a wonderfully moving work of fiction – and one that will leave no reader with a dry eye. I fully expect to see Essie’s Roses on the silver screen someday, but until then I will simply look forward to reading future works by this author. Five Stars (and then add some more)!
Essie’s Roses is a ‘fictional’ novel, yet it encompasses the same importance of message, and will certainly remind readers of their intrinsic knowledge of right versus wrong with the same quiet strength of conviction that Harriet Beecher Stowe provided to her readers when she wrote Uncle Tom’s Cabin.
Additionally though, this book is so much more than just that. Essie’s Roses is the beautifully poignant tale of two girls; one white, the other colored – who grow up together (but still separate) during the mid-1800s. This is the story of their heartfelt and true love for one another. An accounting showing how they are each able to overcome the odds of the lives they have been born into. For even though slavery (the subjugation of an entire race due only to the ‘infraction’ of being born a different color) was commonly accepted as ‘right’ during our country’s younger years; Essie’s Roses will force the reader to look even further beyond that misconception – in order to acknowledge that there are many additional forms of slavery; and that they each stem from cruelty, coupled with a complete and utter disregard for the pricelessness of another human’s soul.
In Essie’s Roses, the reader will begin his/her literary journey with a very poignant show of love – as a young colored girl named, Essie Mae seeks to save the life of her (white) best-friend, Evie Winthrop. Essie Mae also understands that to be caught would result in the loss of her own life, but she cannot – no, more importantly will not; leave her best friend to suffer alone.
From here, Essie’s Roses continues – providing the reader with a brief glimpse into the lives of the mothers who birthed these two girls, before the story again moves forward and focuses on each one of the two very different, yet very similar, lives of Essie Mae and Evie.
While I could provide the potential reader with additional information about this amazing and riveting novel – I choose not to. The power of the words and the story found within Essie’s Roses needs to be discovered by the reader for her/himself.
In summary, Michelle Muriel has penned a wonderfully moving work of fiction – and one that will leave no reader with a dry eye. I fully expect to see Essie’s Roses on the silver screen someday, but until then I will simply look forward to reading future works by this author. Five Stars (and then add some more)!
December 24, 2018
Essie's Roses is the poignant story of 2 young girls who are best friends, one white and one black, living on a plantation in Alabama in the mid 1800s. Evie and Essie Mae were born on the same day, although Essie was the daughter of a slave, and Evie the only child of the owner of the plantation. The book takes you through their births and on into young adulthood, following both of them on their sometimes horrific journey. Each chapter is narrated by a different character; Essie, Evie, Evie's mother Katherine, and the house slave who raises Essie after her mother dies in childbirth, Delly. It was wonderful how in each chapter, the narrator's voice changes so distinctly, revealing their education or lack of education, as well as their own unique viewpoints. The author did a wonderful job of immersing us in the time period, using language and dialogue as it would have been over 150 years ago. Ultimately, it is the story of these 2 young girls who are lifelong friends, despite all the obstacles and reasons why they should never have become friends at all. Each of them has dreams, and each of them has suffered. For although Essie Mae cannot be free because of her status in life, Evie has chains of her own which threaten to keep her from being free as well. You will laugh, you will cry, you will experience so many different emotions. You will be hooked from beginning to end, but you will want to stop and savor each word, stopping to smell the roses.
April 27, 2015
A book is a new companion that you hold in your hands ready to open up in anticipation to begin a new journey and, after doing so, you discover you have just been introduced to new people, walk in situations that you ordinarily would never experience, go to places and see sights never before seen… these are the joys of falling into a book and having it tell you a story. This is what I have found in Essie’s Roses. Essie’s Roses is the book that when you put down, the characters are in your head that you keep thinking about and look forward to getting back and escaping into. Essie Roses starts out as a simple story between two girls; one being the daughter of a plantation owner and the other being a daughter of a slave. At a young age the girls know no color but the story evolves into the awaking to the realities of color and holding on to the love and friendship they share when they become adults. We get to read about the simple games of mischief that children play that bring about the bonding of two girls and how they escape to a favorite sanctuary where they can just be themselves and lay back on the green grass and gaze up into the clouds and share their dreams and secrets and also how it is so vital for one of the girls so that she can escape from the harsh realities of her life. The author has done a wonderful job introducing us to these two girls at such a young age and develops them into young ladies with such distinctive personalities. The dialog in the book really stands out. I enjoyed how simple the dialog between the girls was in the beginning of the book and how it changed with each growth period of the girls so that you felt the actual progression of their age.
Another thing I want to say that stands out about this book is the way in which the details of the environment of the book are written in such a way that you really feel like you are walking the grounds of the plantation and feel the grass beneath your feet, view the clouds and be able to see the forms shaped in the sky. The details of the environment only get richer as the girls travel to Richmond, Virginia and we get to experience the sights of the city, streets, storefronts, and the beautiful descriptive details of their new home. When the author describes the passage where Essie is making the strawberry lemonade, I eagerly await my glass. I love any book that can take me to a place and drop me into the story. I am not looking through the window, I am in the window.
In this book, I have found a great story and I am sad to have had to put it down. The book has made me laugh, get mad, and cry.
I want to know more about these women and what happens in the next chapter of their lives. Michelle Muriel wrote a book that kept getting better and better. Usually, when about done, I have my next one already picked out. However, this time, I didn't want this book to end because I know these women have more stories to tell.
June 30, 2015
Such a stunning story of friendship, devotion, unconditional love, dreams and freedom.
The narrative is beautiful and brutal, you’ll need tissues near by. Muriel explores pre and post Civil War. She provides enough of a background of the turbulent times without dwelling. She focuses on her two main protagonists Evie and Essie creating the entire storyline. The twists and turns will catch you off guard. So many tender moments you’ll clutch at your heart balancing the times you’re on the edge of your seat biting your knuckles.
A plethora of characters giving the reader a variety to entertain. The loathsome are disgusting making you want to reach through the pages and give them their just desserts. Evie and Essie as different as different can be yet similar in many ways. Their innocent relationship is cemented the moment they meet. Evie the idealist, impulsive, sheltered, dreamer. Essie intuitive, pragmatic, realist, reserved in the making of her dreams. These two compliment each other in every way. Muriel developed Essie’s character in a spectacular way. We meet the duo as young girls and follow through adulthood. Their bond so deep each willing to sacrifice their life for the other. Two young women trying desperately to find freedom, tired of the cruelties of life both seeking to cut the umbilical cord of ‘slavery’ in its many disguises.
Wonderful writing, outstanding characters combined with an emotional narrative. I would love to see this on the silver screen as it was intended. Absolutely beautiful love story.
The narrative is beautiful and brutal, you’ll need tissues near by. Muriel explores pre and post Civil War. She provides enough of a background of the turbulent times without dwelling. She focuses on her two main protagonists Evie and Essie creating the entire storyline. The twists and turns will catch you off guard. So many tender moments you’ll clutch at your heart balancing the times you’re on the edge of your seat biting your knuckles.
A plethora of characters giving the reader a variety to entertain. The loathsome are disgusting making you want to reach through the pages and give them their just desserts. Evie and Essie as different as different can be yet similar in many ways. Their innocent relationship is cemented the moment they meet. Evie the idealist, impulsive, sheltered, dreamer. Essie intuitive, pragmatic, realist, reserved in the making of her dreams. These two compliment each other in every way. Muriel developed Essie’s character in a spectacular way. We meet the duo as young girls and follow through adulthood. Their bond so deep each willing to sacrifice their life for the other. Two young women trying desperately to find freedom, tired of the cruelties of life both seeking to cut the umbilical cord of ‘slavery’ in its many disguises.
Wonderful writing, outstanding characters combined with an emotional narrative. I would love to see this on the silver screen as it was intended. Absolutely beautiful love story.
April 30, 2015
I truly enjoyed Essie's Roses. From the very first chapter I was hooked. It was very hard for me to put the book down because I wanted to see what happened next.
I felt pulled into the story. The images created by the author made the story come to life for me. I felt like I was there. By far one of the most enjoyable books I have read in a long time.
I felt pulled into the story. The images created by the author made the story come to life for me. I felt like I was there. By far one of the most enjoyable books I have read in a long time.
November 29, 2016
Find my full review at http://aliteraryvacation.blogspot.com.
I have to admit from the first sentence of this review that I have been just the worst reader ever! The lovely author of Essie's Roses, Michelle Muriel, sent me a copy almost a year ago, and I have just recently finished reading it. I started the book back in December 2015 (yes, you read that correctly) and at first attempt I just wasn't in the proper mood for a slowly unwinding story, as beautiful as it turned out to be. So it kept getting relegated to the bottom of my TBR pile, me stealing snippets of the story between other books. Then I resolved to buckle down and devote the time the book deserved to finish it, and I'm so glad I did. Essie's Rose's is a heartbreaking, heart mending look at the true meanings of love, family, and hope told in a unique and beautiful way.
The descriptions of Westland, the plantation much of the story takes place on, are absolutely stunning. This is not a story to be rushed as you really need to read it slowly and absorb all the imagery the author gives to the reader. So much of the story is taken up with building this background and the development of the characters, and their relationships, against it that you'll miss some of the key joy of the reading if you try and hurry through. This is especially true for the first part of the story, where not a lot of action happens but, instead, the reader is able to build a true understanding of and appreciation for the characters they'll be seeing go through some tremendously difficult times. Westland is both a salvation and a prison for these characters and it's only by the author's skill that this fact is fully realized.
And oh the characters you'll meet! I was really impressed with how the author gave wholly unique voices to our four main female characters. Each chapter begins with the name of the woman who's point of view we'll be seeing the story through in that chapter and each is written in that woman's voice, as you'd hear it in her own words. I have to admit that, because of this, it took me a little bit of time to get into the rhythm of speech of some of the characters, especially Delly, but once I got used to it the story flowed. There is so much that bonds these women and it was really interesting, if sad, seeing how each was living in her own personal prison and dealing with her own set of abuses, regardless of her skin color, age, or opportunities (or lack thereof) for a better future. These women help each other in a myriad of ways, especially Evie and Essie Mae, and it is only when they are fully honest with each other that they can support each other to try and move on from the horrors of the past.
Essie's Roses deals with a lot of very difficult topics (slavery, abuse, rape) but does so in a very tender and sensitive way. The story, for me, became more about the bonds of these women and how they truly loved each other enough to push each other to get past the hurt of the past and have hope for a better future than anything else. It took some time for me to really get into the book, but this might have more to do with the sort of book that was drawing my attention at the time than about this one itself. It's a beautifully rendered story and one that deserves to be felt and not just read.
I have to admit from the first sentence of this review that I have been just the worst reader ever! The lovely author of Essie's Roses, Michelle Muriel, sent me a copy almost a year ago, and I have just recently finished reading it. I started the book back in December 2015 (yes, you read that correctly) and at first attempt I just wasn't in the proper mood for a slowly unwinding story, as beautiful as it turned out to be. So it kept getting relegated to the bottom of my TBR pile, me stealing snippets of the story between other books. Then I resolved to buckle down and devote the time the book deserved to finish it, and I'm so glad I did. Essie's Rose's is a heartbreaking, heart mending look at the true meanings of love, family, and hope told in a unique and beautiful way.
The descriptions of Westland, the plantation much of the story takes place on, are absolutely stunning. This is not a story to be rushed as you really need to read it slowly and absorb all the imagery the author gives to the reader. So much of the story is taken up with building this background and the development of the characters, and their relationships, against it that you'll miss some of the key joy of the reading if you try and hurry through. This is especially true for the first part of the story, where not a lot of action happens but, instead, the reader is able to build a true understanding of and appreciation for the characters they'll be seeing go through some tremendously difficult times. Westland is both a salvation and a prison for these characters and it's only by the author's skill that this fact is fully realized.
And oh the characters you'll meet! I was really impressed with how the author gave wholly unique voices to our four main female characters. Each chapter begins with the name of the woman who's point of view we'll be seeing the story through in that chapter and each is written in that woman's voice, as you'd hear it in her own words. I have to admit that, because of this, it took me a little bit of time to get into the rhythm of speech of some of the characters, especially Delly, but once I got used to it the story flowed. There is so much that bonds these women and it was really interesting, if sad, seeing how each was living in her own personal prison and dealing with her own set of abuses, regardless of her skin color, age, or opportunities (or lack thereof) for a better future. These women help each other in a myriad of ways, especially Evie and Essie Mae, and it is only when they are fully honest with each other that they can support each other to try and move on from the horrors of the past.
Essie's Roses deals with a lot of very difficult topics (slavery, abuse, rape) but does so in a very tender and sensitive way. The story, for me, became more about the bonds of these women and how they truly loved each other enough to push each other to get past the hurt of the past and have hope for a better future than anything else. It took some time for me to really get into the book, but this might have more to do with the sort of book that was drawing my attention at the time than about this one itself. It's a beautifully rendered story and one that deserves to be felt and not just read.
January 26, 2016
Riveting, Insightful & Heartfelt! A Beautiful Read! I Loved It!
March 13, 2022
Ahhhh! So many feels. What a beautiful and emotional read.
September 8, 2020
“While Evie was growing up behind the windows of the big house, I was too, behind the windows of a slave’s cabin.” This is the story of two girls, Evie and Essie, confessing to each other as they lie side by side on a hillside; their dream is the same: To Be Free.
Amidst the vast cotton fields and flowers in Alabama, 1841, was nestled a small plantation named Westland. The land was inherited by the impossibly beautiful Miss Katie, now married to the corrupted, evil John Winthrop; the two have a daughter, intimidatingly, blonde and equally beautiful, Evie. The Winthrops live in the big house; along with house slave, lovable, pumpkin bellied, full of scripture and wisdom, Delly. Add the daily visits of young Essie from the slave cabins, to fill in the dynamic days at Westland. Michelle Muriel has “birthed” a family for readers to adopt as Evie and Essie grow up among Miss Katie’s roses and their favorite hillside on the plantation.
Evie, with nature’s help, teaches Essie to listen to her heart and DREAM: “The thing you most want to happen in your life. Right now. Someday. Only you know. Listen.” The ties that bind Evie and Essie are tested over and over, as they grow from sharing “giggles and gossip” into mature young women with dreams of their own “to do.” Will the ties of love and friendship shared between these two girls be broken? Will they be delivered from their own personal, living nightmares?
Michelle Muriel’s dialogue and descriptions will sweep readers away as the saga of Essie’s Roses unfolds from 1841-1865. Pearls of wisdom, inside jokes and humor, along with nightmares and secrets, will cast a spell that can only be broken by the fragrance of Essie’s roses drifting over the hillside as the last page turns. Oh, to wish for just one more day with Evie and Essie.
Meanwhile, hold tight to Evie and Essie’s prayer:
“Lord keep us safe. To run the race.
Faster still, though all uphill.
Keep us strong when we’re afraid.
Guide us home today we pray.
Hold our dreams inside Your hands.
Help us do the dreams You planned.
Amen. ”
Wishes do come true! The lovely Michelle Muriel is gifting devoted readers with the sequel, WESTLAND- COMING SOON!
Amidst the vast cotton fields and flowers in Alabama, 1841, was nestled a small plantation named Westland. The land was inherited by the impossibly beautiful Miss Katie, now married to the corrupted, evil John Winthrop; the two have a daughter, intimidatingly, blonde and equally beautiful, Evie. The Winthrops live in the big house; along with house slave, lovable, pumpkin bellied, full of scripture and wisdom, Delly. Add the daily visits of young Essie from the slave cabins, to fill in the dynamic days at Westland. Michelle Muriel has “birthed” a family for readers to adopt as Evie and Essie grow up among Miss Katie’s roses and their favorite hillside on the plantation.
Evie, with nature’s help, teaches Essie to listen to her heart and DREAM: “The thing you most want to happen in your life. Right now. Someday. Only you know. Listen.” The ties that bind Evie and Essie are tested over and over, as they grow from sharing “giggles and gossip” into mature young women with dreams of their own “to do.” Will the ties of love and friendship shared between these two girls be broken? Will they be delivered from their own personal, living nightmares?
Michelle Muriel’s dialogue and descriptions will sweep readers away as the saga of Essie’s Roses unfolds from 1841-1865. Pearls of wisdom, inside jokes and humor, along with nightmares and secrets, will cast a spell that can only be broken by the fragrance of Essie’s roses drifting over the hillside as the last page turns. Oh, to wish for just one more day with Evie and Essie.
Meanwhile, hold tight to Evie and Essie’s prayer:
“Lord keep us safe. To run the race.
Faster still, though all uphill.
Keep us strong when we’re afraid.
Guide us home today we pray.
Hold our dreams inside Your hands.
Help us do the dreams You planned.
Amen. ”
Wishes do come true! The lovely Michelle Muriel is gifting devoted readers with the sequel, WESTLAND- COMING SOON!
September 29, 2021
“Essie's Roses” is an unforgettable story. Michelle Muriel tells a heartrending tale of two girls; one white, the other black, as they struggle to lead a normal life. You will feel the immeasurable pain; your thoughts pricked to an undeniable sadness, as the story is told. But, the strong bond between the girls as they grow into adulthood, will still your emotions like the quiet before a storm.
Four women tell this tale. Katherine, the kind plantation owner; Delly, her presumptuous and motherly house slave; Essie Mae, her slave girl; and Evie, Katherine's only daughter. Set in Alabama on the Westland plantation during the mid 1800s, best friends, Essie Mae and Evie have dreams of being free.
I am in awe of this moving story that Michelle has written. She creates a tale that will grab your attention from page one. The research was evident, giving the story more authenticity and depth; even giving southern dialogue to some of the characters. She set the scenes perfectly; giving your senses a touch of the surroundings. “Wood from the surrounding trees, pines....all soaked up the dampness giving off a smell...like warm apple pie laced with cinnamon.” Truly an excellent novel that I highly recommend!
Look for the continuation of this story in Michelle's novel, “WESTLAND,” coming out January 2022!
~This book was given to me through a giveaway by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.~
Four women tell this tale. Katherine, the kind plantation owner; Delly, her presumptuous and motherly house slave; Essie Mae, her slave girl; and Evie, Katherine's only daughter. Set in Alabama on the Westland plantation during the mid 1800s, best friends, Essie Mae and Evie have dreams of being free.
I am in awe of this moving story that Michelle has written. She creates a tale that will grab your attention from page one. The research was evident, giving the story more authenticity and depth; even giving southern dialogue to some of the characters. She set the scenes perfectly; giving your senses a touch of the surroundings. “Wood from the surrounding trees, pines....all soaked up the dampness giving off a smell...like warm apple pie laced with cinnamon.” Truly an excellent novel that I highly recommend!
Look for the continuation of this story in Michelle's novel, “WESTLAND,” coming out January 2022!
~This book was given to me through a giveaway by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.~
January 10, 2022
ESSIE’S ROSES by Michelle Muriel is a beautifully-written and emotionally gripping historical novel about love, family and the meaning of freedom that I could not put down. Set on an Alabama plantation called Westland in the mid-1800s just before the Civil War, the story tells of the deep bonds of friendship and love between two children from vastly different circumstances. Essie Mae is a child of slaves, although her exact parentage is not clear. Evie Winthrop is the sheltered daughter of the plantation owner, Katherine Winthrop, who inherited the cotton plantation from her father. The two become inseparable friends, but their relationship must be kept secret because of the racial and cultural norms of the times. Both girls face traumatic abuse before finally escaping together to Evie’s aunt’s home in Richmond, Virginia at age nineteen. The heart-wrenching and moving story is told from the points of view of Essie Mae, Evie, Katherine and Delly, Katherine’s trusted long-time house slave. The authentic dialogue and vivid descriptions transported me to Westland. I could almost smell the beautiful roses. ESSIE’S ROSES is a sweeping coming-of-age story full of heartache and hope that I will not soon forget and I highly recommend it. I can’t wait for WESTLAND, the sequel to this novel, to come out in January, 2022. Thank you to the author for sharing a print copy of this book with me.
January 3, 2016
Review by Carol Boyer
Carol Boyer October 25, 2015
Format: Kindle Edition
Caught in a beautiful spell, into a different time, into a different place, this book wafted me away into dreams, and delighted my senses with the dialogue and the rich descriptions of an exquisite secret garden of roses, which I could picture and really felt like I could smell. From the beginning days in Alabama 1841, approaching the Civil War, to New York in 1865, this historical drama was a story told of two lovely girls, Evie, a dreamer, the daughter of a plantation owner and Essie an intelligent slave, both born on the same day, in the same year. In their early days of their friendship they shared secrets, fiercely loyal to one another and to the events that patterned their lives of abuse, betrayal, along with the questions that might tear them apart, it was a journey well told of the different loves and freedoms they each sought. This book was one I didn't rush through, it was a comfort to come back to, and to quietly soak in the authors well written pages, one that carried an ever building pace and plot that was so rich you didn't want to miss a detail. You will hold your breath and hang on because right up to the end this beautiful novel holds surprises. I was lucky enough to win a copy of this book and am so happy to give my honest review.
Carol Boyer October 25, 2015
Format: Kindle Edition
Caught in a beautiful spell, into a different time, into a different place, this book wafted me away into dreams, and delighted my senses with the dialogue and the rich descriptions of an exquisite secret garden of roses, which I could picture and really felt like I could smell. From the beginning days in Alabama 1841, approaching the Civil War, to New York in 1865, this historical drama was a story told of two lovely girls, Evie, a dreamer, the daughter of a plantation owner and Essie an intelligent slave, both born on the same day, in the same year. In their early days of their friendship they shared secrets, fiercely loyal to one another and to the events that patterned their lives of abuse, betrayal, along with the questions that might tear them apart, it was a journey well told of the different loves and freedoms they each sought. This book was one I didn't rush through, it was a comfort to come back to, and to quietly soak in the authors well written pages, one that carried an ever building pace and plot that was so rich you didn't want to miss a detail. You will hold your breath and hang on because right up to the end this beautiful novel holds surprises. I was lucky enough to win a copy of this book and am so happy to give my honest review.
July 13, 2015
Copy Received for an honest review from Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours
Books like Essie's Roses by Michelle Muriel are why I love reading. This was such a fantastic read, my heart ached and I couldn't put it down. Essie Mae is a colored girl, she starts off by risking her life to save her friend and also her mistress daughter. Stories like "Essie's Roses" are literary works of fiction. The story was so beautifully written, the pacing so well-done. Once I started I could not put it down. The author changes the points of view during the story. Muriel really made it work because I was provided a very thorough perspective of the story. Set during the Civil War, Essie and Evie-her best friend- form a beautiful friendship. Their love for each other was so beautiful and their innocence so precious. This is one of my favorite books from this year!
Books like Essie's Roses by Michelle Muriel are why I love reading. This was such a fantastic read, my heart ached and I couldn't put it down. Essie Mae is a colored girl, she starts off by risking her life to save her friend and also her mistress daughter. Stories like "Essie's Roses" are literary works of fiction. The story was so beautifully written, the pacing so well-done. Once I started I could not put it down. The author changes the points of view during the story. Muriel really made it work because I was provided a very thorough perspective of the story. Set during the Civil War, Essie and Evie-her best friend- form a beautiful friendship. Their love for each other was so beautiful and their innocence so precious. This is one of my favorite books from this year!
January 2, 2017
Essie's Roses takes place on an Alabama plantation, Westland prior to the Civil War. Katherine Winthrop is the mistress of the plantation. Evie is her only daughter. Also on the plantation live Bo,caretaker and Delly, Katherine's house slave. Essie Mae is the young slave girl who becomes friends with Evie, which is taboo. There are secrets in the household. At age nineteen Essie May and Evie leave Westland and head to Richmond to escape their abused pasts. They seek freedom and the pursuit of their dreams.
This book is beautifully written. You can't read it quickly. You must savor every page with its lyrical prose. It is an emotional read, historically accurate, serving up an equal amount of heartache and humor. It deserves a special niche on your bookshelf. Well done.
This book is beautifully written. You can't read it quickly. You must savor every page with its lyrical prose. It is an emotional read, historically accurate, serving up an equal amount of heartache and humor. It deserves a special niche on your bookshelf. Well done.
February 13, 2020
Beautifully written prose and well developed characters. The story of a mother and two girls and their struggles to hold onto dreams as well as their ability to dream during the troubled pre Civil War time. This heartfelt story brought tears to me during both happy and sad times. I have never read a book where I could so aptly smell the roses or the stench described within the pages. I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a wonderfully emotional read.
April 10, 2016
Breathtaking.
This is a powerful tale, masterfully written. The theme is meaty and complex. The plot is so well crafted that I am in awe. The character development is the best I've ever read. This book takes us through the struggles and suffering of life but reminds us that the human spirit can overcome anything if we hold to our hopes and dreams. A true master writer.
This is a powerful tale, masterfully written. The theme is meaty and complex. The plot is so well crafted that I am in awe. The character development is the best I've ever read. This book takes us through the struggles and suffering of life but reminds us that the human spirit can overcome anything if we hold to our hopes and dreams. A true master writer.
March 25, 2015
Was lucky enough to read a copy of this book as part of my work pre-publication and just loved it. Incredibly moving and beautifully written, with compelling characters and storylines, this one brought me to tears—sad and happy ones—more than once!
November 6, 2021
Essie's Roses takes place in Alabama during the 1800's, prior to the Civil War. It is the story of two young girls, one white, the plantation owner's only daughter; the other black, the daughter of a slave. The girls grow up together and become best friends, despite all the reasons of that time period that dictate they should not. They share the things most best friends do - secrets, dreams, advice, and mischief, but not everything - freedom, in different ways. As a slave, Essie is bound to one world and set of rules, and Evie, through life experiences, must find the freedom she needs to escape her mental binds and truly live her life. At a tender age of young adulthood, the sheltered young woman must face the real world for the first time together in Richmond, Virginia, in pre-civil war controversy; their eyes are opened to many prejudices and divisions they had previously never experienced. They have each other, as they move forward against the odds.
This story was very well written and researched; it felt like it could have been based on a true story. The author used authentic slang language of the period, descriptions of the time, and characterization that was realistic. There is so much to this story, that my brief summary doesn't do it justice; so many issues about life on a southern plantation are explicitly stated in the story, that one needs to read the book to understand all the complexities. It is a great read that touches emotions and has you cheering for the both the girls to make it through their childhood and beyond to achieve the dreams they dream. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. #EssiesRoses. #MichelleMuriel #Goodreads
This story was very well written and researched; it felt like it could have been based on a true story. The author used authentic slang language of the period, descriptions of the time, and characterization that was realistic. There is so much to this story, that my brief summary doesn't do it justice; so many issues about life on a southern plantation are explicitly stated in the story, that one needs to read the book to understand all the complexities. It is a great read that touches emotions and has you cheering for the both the girls to make it through their childhood and beyond to achieve the dreams they dream. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. #EssiesRoses. #MichelleMuriel #Goodreads
March 16, 2022
Essie's Roses: Book 1 - by Michelle Muriel
Essie's Roses, plainly said, touched me to my core.
An incredibly moving story of two young girls within the Southern setting of Alabama during the 1800s, which lead me, heart and soul, through their differences, their common bonds, and on to their secretive journey of discovery, one of undying friendship.
Essie Mae and Evie's fragile young lives are surrounded by secrets and unfathomable challenges. Both must learn to fight the piercing harshness of reality which holds strong within their families, yet hold on to their innocence~ to dream their dreams, and to save each other...
Ms. Muriel has crafted a compelling and utterly touching narrative of the women of Westland that left me breathless by allowing me to experience each and every heartbeat of this masterfully depicted story of love, loss, hope, faith, and courage.
Through the authors enchanting use of dialogue, her seamless and realistic descriptions of time and place, she has created with great care and empathy for her characters, an experience that is beyond moving.
From rose gardens to cotton fields, from dreams to freedom, and from unyielding pain to comfort, this beautifully written story begins and ends as it was meant to~ love knows no boundaries.
I thank Ms. Muriel for my personal copy of Essie's Roses, an exceptional story that I happily recommend.
5 Stars
#EssiesRoses
#MicheleMuriel
#LittleCabinBooks
Wild Sage Book Blog
Essie's Roses, plainly said, touched me to my core.
An incredibly moving story of two young girls within the Southern setting of Alabama during the 1800s, which lead me, heart and soul, through their differences, their common bonds, and on to their secretive journey of discovery, one of undying friendship.
Essie Mae and Evie's fragile young lives are surrounded by secrets and unfathomable challenges. Both must learn to fight the piercing harshness of reality which holds strong within their families, yet hold on to their innocence~ to dream their dreams, and to save each other...
Ms. Muriel has crafted a compelling and utterly touching narrative of the women of Westland that left me breathless by allowing me to experience each and every heartbeat of this masterfully depicted story of love, loss, hope, faith, and courage.
Through the authors enchanting use of dialogue, her seamless and realistic descriptions of time and place, she has created with great care and empathy for her characters, an experience that is beyond moving.
From rose gardens to cotton fields, from dreams to freedom, and from unyielding pain to comfort, this beautifully written story begins and ends as it was meant to~ love knows no boundaries.
I thank Ms. Muriel for my personal copy of Essie's Roses, an exceptional story that I happily recommend.
5 Stars
#EssiesRoses
#MicheleMuriel
#LittleCabinBooks
Wild Sage Book Blog
November 9, 2021
A well crafted work based in the pre-Civil War world of the Deep South where an unlikely friendship blooms. The switching of diction and narrative voice within each of the narrator’s perspectives really brings this tale to life. You’re immersed into the world of these two girls who were born on the same day but come from very different societal standings, and travel with them from birth to adulthood. It is so wonderfully crafted and you can almost forget you’re reading a work of fiction because the characters and situations are so real.
**I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. This did not alter my review or rating in any way. This review is honest and my own.
**I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. This did not alter my review or rating in any way. This review is honest and my own.
January 2, 2020
This is my favorite history era to read and what a good read this was!
Michelle Muriel shared such a heartwarming story with us!!!
The innocence of children and how the adult world can attempt to tear it apart.
This is a story of true friendship filled with trust, honesty and love. Dreams to live and see them come to life.
Thank You, Michelle Muriel for sharing with us all. I look forward to reading you future books.
Michelle Muriel shared such a heartwarming story with us!!!
The innocence of children and how the adult world can attempt to tear it apart.
This is a story of true friendship filled with trust, honesty and love. Dreams to live and see them come to life.
Thank You, Michelle Muriel for sharing with us all. I look forward to reading you future books.
February 20, 2022
A book to savor rather than rush through. Told by multiple characters and filled with joy, pain, secrets, humor, and love. Set during the civil war, and a deep bond between slaves, owner, and offspring. It was thought provoking with many messages within, hope, dreams, and being free.
February 9, 2017
I thought it was a WONDERFUL book. It brought tears to my eyes. I like the details of the story. Only thing I didnt like is how it jumps from 5 to 12 yrs old. LOVE THE CHARACTERS(except the husband) She made them feel real. Its a 'Gone With the Wind" meets "Roots"
May 10, 2022
Great story 🌹 I read the second book first, Westland , just had to read the beginning. This did not disappoint . It was entertaining, it made you cry a little bit and it had a good ending. Very strong characters .
February 2, 2025
Very cute story, but not a lot of action.
September 29, 2021
A novel set in the Civil war era which fascinates me.A journey into this troubled era that tells the tale of a “privileged “ plantation owners daughter and a slave girl who grow up together .Their love and loyalty to each other despite their places ,in society are compelling.The powerful secrets those treasured roses hold they grow centers the storyline as well.I look forward to reading more novels by this author.
June 28, 2019
Beautifully written
This book was so hard to put down. I felt like I was in the story. It was so captivating and sweet.
This book was so hard to put down. I felt like I was in the story. It was so captivating and sweet.
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