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Ella Wood #1
Ella Wood
Love. War. Both equally destructive to Emily's ambitions.
Though she left Charleston a spoiled daughter of the South, Emily returns from her stay in the North a changed young woman. Her assumptions about slavery have been shattered, and her secret dream of attending university has blossomed into fierce ambition. As the passions that are sweeping the North and South toward war threaten to envelop the city she loves, Emily must battle her father's traditional expectations in her own bid for independence. Meanwhile, the real fight may lie with her heart, in the form of a patient young man who is gently but steadily pursuing her.
Four years ago I published The Candle Star, a stand-alone title among my collection of Civil War middle grade fiction. The book was well received by a general adult readership, and I began receiving emails asking questions like, "Why didn't you follow Emily's storyline?" and "What happens to Emily?" Ella Wood is my response.
Parents of middle graders, please note that I have bumped Ella Wood into the young adult genre. Emily is now sixteen, standing at the edge of war and struggling with questions of morality, purpose, and love. Slavery, dealt with so carefully in my series for young readers, is shown in a much harsher light, and some themes are adult in nature. A "clean" read, Ella Wood is nevertheless intended for an audience of some maturity.
You need not read The Candle Star to enjoy Ella Wood, though the Kindle edition is free.
Though she left Charleston a spoiled daughter of the South, Emily returns from her stay in the North a changed young woman. Her assumptions about slavery have been shattered, and her secret dream of attending university has blossomed into fierce ambition. As the passions that are sweeping the North and South toward war threaten to envelop the city she loves, Emily must battle her father's traditional expectations in her own bid for independence. Meanwhile, the real fight may lie with her heart, in the form of a patient young man who is gently but steadily pursuing her.
Four years ago I published The Candle Star, a stand-alone title among my collection of Civil War middle grade fiction. The book was well received by a general adult readership, and I began receiving emails asking questions like, "Why didn't you follow Emily's storyline?" and "What happens to Emily?" Ella Wood is my response.
Parents of middle graders, please note that I have bumped Ella Wood into the young adult genre. Emily is now sixteen, standing at the edge of war and struggling with questions of morality, purpose, and love. Slavery, dealt with so carefully in my series for young readers, is shown in a much harsher light, and some themes are adult in nature. A "clean" read, Ella Wood is nevertheless intended for an audience of some maturity.
You need not read The Candle Star to enjoy Ella Wood, though the Kindle edition is free.
361 pages, ebook
First published May 9, 2015
278 people are currently reading
271 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Isenhoff
57 books91 followersMICHELLE ISENHOFF writes for women, teens, and tweens. Her work has been reader-nominated for a Cybils Award, the Great Michigan Read, and the Maine Student Book Award. She's also placed as a semi-finalist in the Kindle Book Review Book Awards, a finalist in the Wishing Shelf Book Awards, and earned multiple Readers' Favorite 5 Star seals of approval. A former teacher and longtime homeschooler, Michelle has written extensively in the children's genre and been lauded by the education community for the literary quality of her work. More recently, she has enjoyed writing historical romance for older teens and women. Currently, she is relishing the creative freedom of branching out into adult speculative fiction.
**Visit her blog at www.michelleisenhoff.com.
**Sign up for her new release newsletter at http://bit.ly/1bHFqaw.
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**Visit her blog at www.michelleisenhoff.com.
**Sign up for her new release newsletter at http://bit.ly/1bHFqaw.
**Follow her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/michelle.isenhoff.au....
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June 22, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/22/2019)! 🎁
September 14, 2017
This book has received a Discovering Diamonds Review:
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
'The author mixes real and imaginary characters in this novel, giving it a voice of authenticity. '
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
'The author mixes real and imaginary characters in this novel, giving it a voice of authenticity. '
December 6, 2018
I wasn't entirely sure whether I'd enjoy this or not. I'm not into reading about southern belles, but this is not what I was expecting.
As Emily reaches the age of marriage the unfairness of slavery begins to dawn on her, along with the fact that, as a southern woman she herself only has the freedom her father will allow, which does not take her dreams and ambitions into account.
When she discovers even her kindly family are prepared to whip slaves and deprive them of their children, she feels the need to stand up against slavery. But to do that will take all her courage, and she risks losing her family and friends in the process.
A captivating novel which I thoroughly enjoyed as I turned the pages faster and faster. This book was free, and if you're quick, you may also be able to snap it up before the deal ends.
It does end on a bit of a cliffhanger but the story is too good to be put off by that. I will be buying more in the series.
As Emily reaches the age of marriage the unfairness of slavery begins to dawn on her, along with the fact that, as a southern woman she herself only has the freedom her father will allow, which does not take her dreams and ambitions into account.
When she discovers even her kindly family are prepared to whip slaves and deprive them of their children, she feels the need to stand up against slavery. But to do that will take all her courage, and she risks losing her family and friends in the process.
A captivating novel which I thoroughly enjoyed as I turned the pages faster and faster. This book was free, and if you're quick, you may also be able to snap it up before the deal ends.
It does end on a bit of a cliffhanger but the story is too good to be put off by that. I will be buying more in the series.
May 20, 2015
Historical Fiction can be brilliantly entertaining but glaringly inaccurate. Or it can be precise to a pin but dull as ditch water. However, when a story is both well-researched and a tells a vivid, breathing story, magic happens. Such was the case with Ella Wood. I was so captivated by the world and characters, that I read it practically in one sitting.
I want to somehow articulate what I loved about this book, but I'm afraid I won't do it justice. This book is so much more than a period story, a romance, or a thrilling, suspenseful account of impending war. It may be fiction, but it is truth.
Michelle Isenhoff took on the dual world and perspective of slaves and their owners in a very brave and real way. She was not afraid to let some of her white slave owners be human and good. She showed us that they were passionate and loyal to their political convictions, that they believed in God and loved each other, and that while there were brutal, evil people involved in the institution of slavery, there were also warm, loving and charitable people. But while reading this, the whole time, you know how wrong slavery is. You see the ignorance and willful blindness of the slave owners even while you become engaged in their lives. Then you see the main character Emily Preston slowly awake to an awareness of what is wrong.
As Emily comes to this realization over time and through experiences, Isenhoff begins to reveal the slaves in Emily's world with depth and candor. You see their courage, their stoic endurance against injustice and inhumanity, their fear, their anger, their jealousies and their warmth as you realize they could love their owners and be protective and affectionate towards them. And slowly, ever so slowly, you begin to see that they dream of a different, impossible world where no one separates their family, beats them for displeasing them, forces them to toil for someone else's advantage, or denies them respect, education, and freedom. But dreams such as those are terrifying and dangerous and must be buried at all costs.
This is where I must stop myself before I give away too much of the story as I sing it's praises. I focused my review on what impressed me most, but there is so much more to this story. The characters are believable and well rounded, the descriptions are vivid but not heavy, and the story is full of all the drama, fun, and challenges of life circa 1860. Take my advice and clear your schedule before you read it. You're not going to want to do anything else.
I want to somehow articulate what I loved about this book, but I'm afraid I won't do it justice. This book is so much more than a period story, a romance, or a thrilling, suspenseful account of impending war. It may be fiction, but it is truth.
Michelle Isenhoff took on the dual world and perspective of slaves and their owners in a very brave and real way. She was not afraid to let some of her white slave owners be human and good. She showed us that they were passionate and loyal to their political convictions, that they believed in God and loved each other, and that while there were brutal, evil people involved in the institution of slavery, there were also warm, loving and charitable people. But while reading this, the whole time, you know how wrong slavery is. You see the ignorance and willful blindness of the slave owners even while you become engaged in their lives. Then you see the main character Emily Preston slowly awake to an awareness of what is wrong.
As Emily comes to this realization over time and through experiences, Isenhoff begins to reveal the slaves in Emily's world with depth and candor. You see their courage, their stoic endurance against injustice and inhumanity, their fear, their anger, their jealousies and their warmth as you realize they could love their owners and be protective and affectionate towards them. And slowly, ever so slowly, you begin to see that they dream of a different, impossible world where no one separates their family, beats them for displeasing them, forces them to toil for someone else's advantage, or denies them respect, education, and freedom. But dreams such as those are terrifying and dangerous and must be buried at all costs.
This is where I must stop myself before I give away too much of the story as I sing it's praises. I focused my review on what impressed me most, but there is so much more to this story. The characters are believable and well rounded, the descriptions are vivid but not heavy, and the story is full of all the drama, fun, and challenges of life circa 1860. Take my advice and clear your schedule before you read it. You're not going to want to do anything else.
November 25, 2018
Ella Wood is at least as good as Isenhoff's dystopian novels. I'm impressed with her ability to write well across multiple genres!
I found Emily easy to relate to, which helped me quickly get caught up in this captivating novel. She is shy and wonderfully empathetic yet also strong-willed and driven. Her naivete is a reminder of her age - though old enough to consider marriage, she is only 16.
There are also some great friendships in this book. I love the constant companionship of Lizzie, though it is stifled by her position as a slave. I also appreciated the friendships of Sophia - so different from Emily - and Abigail. Quirky Aunt Margaret, though she plays a small role, is a delight.
The love triangle, on the other hand, is irritating. I've never liked this device. Both men are kind, and I appreciate their individual friendships with Emily, but their competing to marry someone who has no interest in marriage is frustrating. I also feel like there's a bit much kissing for this time period?
The ending to this otherwise excellent novel is . . . abrupt. It feels like there were pages missing. I really like the book overall, though, so the best remedy for this is simply to have book 2 on hand!
*I received a free ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I found Emily easy to relate to, which helped me quickly get caught up in this captivating novel. She is shy and wonderfully empathetic yet also strong-willed and driven. Her naivete is a reminder of her age - though old enough to consider marriage, she is only 16.
There are also some great friendships in this book. I love the constant companionship of Lizzie, though it is stifled by her position as a slave. I also appreciated the friendships of Sophia - so different from Emily - and Abigail. Quirky Aunt Margaret, though she plays a small role, is a delight.
The love triangle, on the other hand, is irritating. I've never liked this device. Both men are kind, and I appreciate their individual friendships with Emily, but their competing to marry someone who has no interest in marriage is frustrating. I also feel like there's a bit much kissing for this time period?
The ending to this otherwise excellent novel is . . . abrupt. It feels like there were pages missing. I really like the book overall, though, so the best remedy for this is simply to have book 2 on hand!
*I received a free ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 27, 2022
What a fantastic story of a girl coming of age in South Carolina right before the Civil War begins. She has a mind of her own, goes against her father and his wishes, and is determined to pursue her dreams. Along her path, her eyes are opened to how she was raised and she starts to question what the south is determined to fight for. There are great characters and some mystery and a page-turner story. This is a cliffhanger so be aware it ends up hanging on the next book. I immediately bought the other two books in this series as well as there are a set of 3 novellas of supporting characters I went ahead and got to. I can't wait to begin them all. The historical element is well-researched and I enjoyed that along with the story of Ellie and what happens to her. I loved it and highly recommend it.
September 12, 2018
I started reading this series because I have very much enjoyed the authors other series. Wasn't sure what to expect for a historical based story of the south in the late 1800's during slavery and right at Lincoln's election. Not the type of stories I typically read. But the authors ability to spin a story with such visual imagery and with such an interesting story line is very well done. This is the story of Emily who lives on a plantation called Elle Wood. Her journey as she thinks more and more about slavery and what is right as well as her transition into womanhood and independence in a world that is also against women is a very interesting read. Will definitely be continuing on with this series as well.
April 6, 2020
Ella Wood is a plantation in South Carolina predominantly growing rice. The story starts just prior to the Civil War. The protagonist is a lovely southern Belle who really wants to be her own person and not defined by the society in which she is raised.
Through the story we got to know her, several young men who would like to court her, and her family. We are introduced to the slaves on the plantation and the other surrounding characters who fit so well in the world the author creates. The author did an excellent job merging real events, real geography, plantation operation and Ella Wood into a very compelling story. The reader is drawn in and can visualize this world as the author has created it.
A highly recommended read.
Through the story we got to know her, several young men who would like to court her, and her family. We are introduced to the slaves on the plantation and the other surrounding characters who fit so well in the world the author creates. The author did an excellent job merging real events, real geography, plantation operation and Ella Wood into a very compelling story. The reader is drawn in and can visualize this world as the author has created it.
A highly recommended read.
January 4, 2021
Having studied art in Michigan, she is torn between her parent's lifestyle and beliefs and her fondness for certain slaves and abhorrence of the practice. In between are several young men who wish to court her, but being young and intent on further studying her passion and very good at it, she basically plays them which doesn't set well within her circles. Towards the end of the book, the war begins with her wayward brother and their friend enlisting, causing further dissension, especially when she helps some slaves behind her father's back. Excellent book, although part of a saga, but may be too mature for the YA age group.
May 27, 2019
Great read. Not your standard civil war historical romance.
What I liked:
*The setting.
*All of the characters were well defined.
*Emily's independence and her desire to be trained as an artist.
*The vivid pictures that the artist painted with her words.
*The editing was well done, especially hard for an indy author.
*This was a clean read, which I really appreciate.
*A lot of historical background is given, which seamlessly blends in.
I will be reading the next book in this series. I highly recommend this book to historical fiction readers.
What I liked:
*The setting.
*All of the characters were well defined.
*Emily's independence and her desire to be trained as an artist.
*The vivid pictures that the artist painted with her words.
*The editing was well done, especially hard for an indy author.
*This was a clean read, which I really appreciate.
*A lot of historical background is given, which seamlessly blends in.
I will be reading the next book in this series. I highly recommend this book to historical fiction readers.
September 26, 2017
A continuation of The Candle Star, Emily returns to her family's southern plantation. She battles her father and longs for her dead brother, who went to the grave with secrets she tries to uncover. The story is compelling, she follows her conscience and learns how to connect with her father.
I wish the series had started when she was younger, closer to her return from Detroit.
I wish the series had started when she was younger, closer to her return from Detroit.
November 5, 2017
A woman with a conscience
A young unmarried woman grew up with a slave who was the same age. When she learnt that her chilhood friend had fallen in love with another slave who was brutally beaten, everything changed. She began to question slavery. She helped her friend, with her new baby and an older child from her friend's husband, and her husband, to escape.
A young unmarried woman grew up with a slave who was the same age. When she learnt that her chilhood friend had fallen in love with another slave who was brutally beaten, everything changed. She began to question slavery. She helped her friend, with her new baby and an older child from her friend's husband, and her husband, to escape.
November 4, 2020
Best book I have read in a while!
I could not put this book down. I was not sure that I would like this story. But it drew me in from the start. Ms Isenhoff skillfully leads you through the South during The Civil War and the evils of slavery. I can't wait to read the next books in the series.Enjoy!
I could not put this book down. I was not sure that I would like this story. But it drew me in from the start. Ms Isenhoff skillfully leads you through the South during The Civil War and the evils of slavery. I can't wait to read the next books in the series.Enjoy!
November 25, 2020
This is book 1 of 3. I like that Emily is a strong young lady. It is the start of the Civil War. I'm looking forward to book 2. The ending of book 1 certainly made it possible for me to start book 2 immediately because I wanted to KNOW what happens. . .
September 2, 2017
I love this book because it has slaves and how they are treated badly and Emily in the next book will try and stop that
March 30, 2018
Great story!
I really loved this story, it is so sad how some people can treat others. God would be mad as heck. Loved, loved it.
I really loved this story, it is so sad how some people can treat others. God would be mad as heck. Loved, loved it.
July 14, 2021
I enjoyed this book, of course I love most things set in the Civil War time period. The author did leave it on a cliff hanger and I want to know who one person is. Guess I'll be buying the next book!
December 24, 2021
Loved this book and all the sequels. Great storyline
August 7, 2024
Excellent Book
Oh, I enjoyed this book so well. I couldn't put it down and when I had to I couldn't wait to get back to it!
Oh, I enjoyed this book so well. I couldn't put it down and when I had to I couldn't wait to get back to it!
October 4, 2016
Ella Wood is a well written novel, with a strong central character. It is a story of growing up, and changing worldviews. All the characters have depth to them, and are very likeable. Through this series, you get a sense of the changing times, and the changing way in which Ella sees the world around her. This book is meant for older readers than the previous book in this series, but I think this is a good thing as it allows the author to be more realistic in the way slavery is portrayed in the book. This is a book that stays with you after you've read it, and gets you wanting to know what happens next, as the book ends on a cliff hanger. I'd recommend it for anyone who has an interest in this time period, because it feels like the author has done quite a bit of research to write this book. I'd also recommend it for students who are learning about slavery and the civil war.
June 14, 2015
A must read for anyone interested in the Civil War period. I haven't enjoyed a recently published book this much since I discovered Kay Marshall Strom's The Faith of Ashish. Michelle Isenhoff is in the same category with Kay--which is a huge compliment from me. If you like Civil War era romance stuff you will like this book, as it's got plenty of that as Emily hesitates between Jovie and Thad. ( BTW, just for the record, I'm on Team Jovie. ) But this isn't just a romance novel--it's primarily a remarkably realistic insight into the history of the time. I studied the Civil War and Michelle clearly did too. I was impressed with her research as it wasn't the usual trivial underwear stuff but actually focused on the big picture of the social, economic, and political issues of the time. If you want something underwear focused like Siri Mitchell, look elsewhere. ;) If you want REAL history, keep reading Michelle. If you want canned, self-conscious characters, go look up another author---Michelle is a mature writer and her people are not prettied up for an audience.
It was this aspect of the book that made me never get bored ( and I typically get bored with thick new fiction releases). Her people were real and flawed and made you seriously worry what would happen next. And, although the author is willing to admit that certain individuals of the white elite class were worthy people ( Emily, Darius, and Jovie are all admirable), she doesn't sentimentalize over the fact that the Deep South had a culture that produced a lot of jerks--- spoiled Sophia, arrogant William, wild Jack, and cruel Northrup, among others.
And, most importantly of all, there is no sentimentalizing over the horrors of slavery. The tragedy of Lizzie and the abusive behavior to Lottie--the noble Ketch and nasty Herod--all these and more were shown with brutal honesty. There is a rape incident that reminded me of a similar event in Christy, but it is better managed by Michelle than by Catherine Marshall.
Michelle doesn't sensationalize. And she doesn't sentimentalize. This book shows the Deep South as it really was. If you find sappy pro-Confederates disgusting, then this book is for you. Michelle will be your voice.
Slavery is wrong. Period.
My only two complaints are these:
1: Emily's ambitions to be a professional painter were surprisingly not all that sympathetic as it was hard for me to believe that most of her art was really that good ( except for the painting of Lizzie). This might not bother all readers.
2: The book ends extremely abruptly! I was shocked that it concluded so soon. None of the main plot threads are resolved. Will Emily choose Thad or Jovie? Will Ketch make it to freedom? Who was it who raped Lizzie? ...
Are you kidding me? The book is already over?!
Warning: After reading this book you will be RUSHING to find the sequel.
It was this aspect of the book that made me never get bored ( and I typically get bored with thick new fiction releases). Her people were real and flawed and made you seriously worry what would happen next. And, although the author is willing to admit that certain individuals of the white elite class were worthy people ( Emily, Darius, and Jovie are all admirable), she doesn't sentimentalize over the fact that the Deep South had a culture that produced a lot of jerks--- spoiled Sophia, arrogant William, wild Jack, and cruel Northrup, among others.
And, most importantly of all, there is no sentimentalizing over the horrors of slavery. The tragedy of Lizzie and the abusive behavior to Lottie--the noble Ketch and nasty Herod--all these and more were shown with brutal honesty. There is a rape incident that reminded me of a similar event in Christy, but it is better managed by Michelle than by Catherine Marshall.
Michelle doesn't sensationalize. And she doesn't sentimentalize. This book shows the Deep South as it really was. If you find sappy pro-Confederates disgusting, then this book is for you. Michelle will be your voice.
Slavery is wrong. Period.
My only two complaints are these:
1: Emily's ambitions to be a professional painter were surprisingly not all that sympathetic as it was hard for me to believe that most of her art was really that good ( except for the painting of Lizzie). This might not bother all readers.
2: The book ends extremely abruptly! I was shocked that it concluded so soon. None of the main plot threads are resolved. Will Emily choose Thad or Jovie? Will Ketch make it to freedom? Who was it who raped Lizzie? ...
Are you kidding me? The book is already over?!
Warning: After reading this book you will be RUSHING to find the sequel.
May 24, 2015
This was the image she wanted to share, the truth she wanted to show to the world.
She had found her voice.
As far as my reading for pleasure goes, I got my start with young adult historical fiction about America’s past while I was still a young adult, with novels by Ann Rinaldi. Ella Wood by Michelle Isenhoff took me back to that same brand of enjoyment, and the story grew on me as I read.
Emily is no perfectly angelic protagonist. It’s her independent thinking, her ambition as an artist, and her gradually shifting views on slavery in the South (the very institution her family and the society around her depends on to maintain their way of life) that make her a compelling heroine, particularly through the way her gift as an artist informs her thoughts on humanity, and vise versa. There’s a richness in her growth in character over the course of the book, intertwining well with the brink and onset of the American Civil War.
I haven’t an absolute dislike of love triangles in novels, though when the romantic involvement and displayed affection between one party and both of his/her love interests is essentially equal, the alternating back and forth between the relationships isn’t something I can quite wrap my mind around or get into, as turned out to be the case here.
The third-person narrator uses identifiers for characters such as “the black woman” or “the colored girl” a good deal more than, say, “the white boy” or “the white woman,” which could inadvertently undermine the story’s message on human sameness just a tad. Also, I was admittedly disappointed to find the story end with a total cliffhanger. I personally feel more “cordially welcomed” and thus inclined to read the next book in a series when the preceding book has a natural conclusion, one that may leave inviting promise for a continuation, than when the story simply cuts off.
Again, though, I enjoyed this read overall, particularly after hitting around the halfway mark, which pretty much became the “unputdownable” point for me.
______________________
I received a complimentary copy of this book through a notice from the author for the purpose of an honest review.
She had found her voice.
As far as my reading for pleasure goes, I got my start with young adult historical fiction about America’s past while I was still a young adult, with novels by Ann Rinaldi. Ella Wood by Michelle Isenhoff took me back to that same brand of enjoyment, and the story grew on me as I read.
Emily is no perfectly angelic protagonist. It’s her independent thinking, her ambition as an artist, and her gradually shifting views on slavery in the South (the very institution her family and the society around her depends on to maintain their way of life) that make her a compelling heroine, particularly through the way her gift as an artist informs her thoughts on humanity, and vise versa. There’s a richness in her growth in character over the course of the book, intertwining well with the brink and onset of the American Civil War.
I haven’t an absolute dislike of love triangles in novels, though when the romantic involvement and displayed affection between one party and both of his/her love interests is essentially equal, the alternating back and forth between the relationships isn’t something I can quite wrap my mind around or get into, as turned out to be the case here.
The third-person narrator uses identifiers for characters such as “the black woman” or “the colored girl” a good deal more than, say, “the white boy” or “the white woman,” which could inadvertently undermine the story’s message on human sameness just a tad. Also, I was admittedly disappointed to find the story end with a total cliffhanger. I personally feel more “cordially welcomed” and thus inclined to read the next book in a series when the preceding book has a natural conclusion, one that may leave inviting promise for a continuation, than when the story simply cuts off.
Again, though, I enjoyed this read overall, particularly after hitting around the halfway mark, which pretty much became the “unputdownable” point for me.
______________________
I received a complimentary copy of this book through a notice from the author for the purpose of an honest review.
May 18, 2015
Ella Wood is an enchanting, well-written tale of a young determined woman, set in the deep south on the verge of civil war. As she struggles with an awakening realization of the atrocity of slavery, she also fights against the oppression of her "fairer" sex. At one point in the book, she's given the advice, "Put your voice in your paintings." This advice, she takes to heart, though even this expression is a struggle as her father refuses to let her enroll in art school.
The author paints a vivid picture of the South and all it's beauty and blemishes at the time slavery was a cherished and embedded custom.The familiar arguments put forth to justify slavery are spoken in a believable setting, where all opposed are persecuted and ridiculed. Emily has seen that white people and black people both bleed the same color of blood, so she is compelled to take up the defense of the slaves she has grown to love.
The conversations flow easily, despite the use of dialect and colloquial southern language. I particularly enjoyed the sharp and witty exchanges between Emily and the two young men who pursue her.
I did not read the Middle-Grade prequel to this book, but I didn't feel lost at any point of the story. I have only two criticisms out of the entire book, and these things are a matter of personal preference. I'm not at all fond of a love triangle in which the girl can't recognize to whom she is drawn, simply because this is a situation I could never fathom for myself. And second, I don't care for books that end on a cliff-hanger, and this one certainly does.
Yet despite these personal complaints, I can't help liking this book and recommending it. It is that well-written. I will almost guarantee, if you read this book, you'll accomplish absolutely nothing until you've reached the end of it. And then you will complain that there isn't more to read. But what's a messy house and a sleepless night when there's a great story to finish?
The author paints a vivid picture of the South and all it's beauty and blemishes at the time slavery was a cherished and embedded custom.The familiar arguments put forth to justify slavery are spoken in a believable setting, where all opposed are persecuted and ridiculed. Emily has seen that white people and black people both bleed the same color of blood, so she is compelled to take up the defense of the slaves she has grown to love.
The conversations flow easily, despite the use of dialect and colloquial southern language. I particularly enjoyed the sharp and witty exchanges between Emily and the two young men who pursue her.
I did not read the Middle-Grade prequel to this book, but I didn't feel lost at any point of the story. I have only two criticisms out of the entire book, and these things are a matter of personal preference. I'm not at all fond of a love triangle in which the girl can't recognize to whom she is drawn, simply because this is a situation I could never fathom for myself. And second, I don't care for books that end on a cliff-hanger, and this one certainly does.
Yet despite these personal complaints, I can't help liking this book and recommending it. It is that well-written. I will almost guarantee, if you read this book, you'll accomplish absolutely nothing until you've reached the end of it. And then you will complain that there isn't more to read. But what's a messy house and a sleepless night when there's a great story to finish?
July 11, 2015
Sixteen-year old Emily Preston desires nothing more than to further her passion for art by attending University. However, in 1860's South Carolina young ladies are not permitted to think, much less do such an outlandish thing. Society's conventions do not stop Emily from trying to live her dream and she enrolls in an art course by mail correspondence. While she is determined to become a professional artist, her heart discovers that she is drawn to two men who are fighting for both her attentions and her heart. She is also discovering that her Southern world, its' rules, and views of slavery are not as innocent and acceptable as they were before her trip to pro-abolitionist Detroit. With the nation on the brink of Civil War and the future of the country at stake, will Emily continue to pursue her dreams as an artist or will she decide to follow her feelings and pursue a future with one of her handsome suitors? Can she follow her heart while her conscious begs her to reevaluate her Southern family, home, and way of life?
Michelle Isenhoff''s first novel in the Ella Wood trilogy is a wonderfully written and engaging book. Even though it is written for teens I found it immensely enjoyable and could not put it down! I even purchased the Candle Star Trilogy which introduces us to Emily at age 14 while she is banished from her family to Detroit for being willful, stubborn, and incorrigible...not the traits of a young Southern Belle! I finished that one in 2 days as well! It was very funny to see the earlier, tantrum-throwing version of the young Emily Preston! I highly recommend Ella Wood and also The Candle Star!
Michelle Isenhoff''s first novel in the Ella Wood trilogy is a wonderfully written and engaging book. Even though it is written for teens I found it immensely enjoyable and could not put it down! I even purchased the Candle Star Trilogy which introduces us to Emily at age 14 while she is banished from her family to Detroit for being willful, stubborn, and incorrigible...not the traits of a young Southern Belle! I finished that one in 2 days as well! It was very funny to see the earlier, tantrum-throwing version of the young Emily Preston! I highly recommend Ella Wood and also The Candle Star!
December 14, 2015
I adored Emily's story in The Candle Star so was very excited to hear more about Emily and her life back in the South. I'll be honest, it took a while to get into as I feel it started a little bit slowly, but once you're in, you're not going to get back out. The story transports you to the Civil War period and you can feel the tensions in the air as Emily walks the streets of Charleston. You can feel the clean country air as she rides the fields of Ella Wood, and you can feel her confusion and turmoil as she comes to really see the divide that is created through the colour of the character's skin. By the second half of the book I could barely put it down, desperate to find out the secrets of the book - who was the man in the forest, who will Emily choose to marry... or will she continue to push them all away and focus on her art. Of course when the book ended with a 'to be continued' I almost screeched, desperate to know what happens next. The book is so eloquently written, and the research that must've gone into this particular period of time must have been immense. It's so interesting to really throw yourself into this world, one that is so incredibly different from our own. I can't wait for the next instalment in the series. I'd love to see more development of Jack... to maybe see another side to him, aside from that which Emily sees.... I think that would be really interesting. I'm desperate to know what happens next! If you like period dramas, I highly recommend this book.
September 1, 2017
Ella Wood is the first book I read from this author and I really like it. It’s well written novel about sixteen-year-old girl who lives in plantation named Ella Wood. Emily Preston is much different than other girls her age. Some of them are married or plan to be married, some of them are spoiled ladies. She is more independent. Her dream is to go to the art school and doesn’t want to get married. But still she started liking one man. And then other man too. I really don’t like romantic novels but here is just enough romance to keep me with the book. Although Emily is confused about her love life, her planes with the art school and the slavery, she’s still really strong character.
We met her mother Marie who is similar to Emily but not that ambitious, her father William – typical patriarch and plantation owner with slaves, brother Jack who is wild and a lot more. I liked the slaves and how they are described. There are Lizzie – Emily’s personal slave and close friend, little girl Lottie, Deena, Josephine, Lewis, Ketch and others. The thing I like about them is their strong minds, especially with Deena.
I didn’t like the ending. It’s ok when we can see there will be a sequel, but this is just a cliffhanger which means the unfinished book. I still thing the book is worth to read. Civil war is important, not just for America. And people have problem with understanding slavery and how anybody can think this is right. In this book, you can find really good explanations and quotes about war, slavery and life.
We met her mother Marie who is similar to Emily but not that ambitious, her father William – typical patriarch and plantation owner with slaves, brother Jack who is wild and a lot more. I liked the slaves and how they are described. There are Lizzie – Emily’s personal slave and close friend, little girl Lottie, Deena, Josephine, Lewis, Ketch and others. The thing I like about them is their strong minds, especially with Deena.
I didn’t like the ending. It’s ok when we can see there will be a sequel, but this is just a cliffhanger which means the unfinished book. I still thing the book is worth to read. Civil war is important, not just for America. And people have problem with understanding slavery and how anybody can think this is right. In this book, you can find really good explanations and quotes about war, slavery and life.
June 22, 2015
What a interesting story makes you realize that we have so much to be grateful for even now. Emily's parents own a rice plantation and they have many slaves to do the work. Emily has come to realize that she is against slavery and she needs to do something about it. She is a very forward thinking young girl who wants to have a career and not marry young but society is against her. Her best friend Lizzie is a young slave and she is trying to help her & her new family escape. Will she have the courage to go through with her plan. Her father has thrown her out of the house as she has gone behind his back and enrolled in art school. She has two suitors but she isn't happy with them at the moment. There is a war going on but she is afraid for her brother Jack & his friend Jovie. She needs to find her own way and I hope that she is able to. She is a great character as she is driven and she will fight for the lives of others. The book is full of facts and it gives you a good look at what was happening in the South and how the slaves were treated. I can't wait to read the next book. I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2016
I really expected to like this story more than I did. In fact, after reading the book I looked up the reviews and was stunned to find essentially all of them were 4 and 5 star (favorable, glowing even) reviews. Bestselling authors like Shannon Hale, Jessica Day George, or JK Rowling don't have those kind of stats. But I digress.
Ella Wood was lackluster. The story failed to capture me. Emily wasn't a strong character. I much preferred her maid, Lizzie. The writer's research was stellar, and I appreciated the glimpse into the past, but many times the story felt forced--like the characters were behaving outside of what was normal for them in order to bring about a certain outcome in order to further the plot.
The description was certainly enough to interest me. But I read the first 5 chapters and then put the book down--for months. I only finished it because I literally have nothing better to do (I'm recovering from a long convalescence).
I fully appreciate that I'm the lone voice here in a sea of glowing reviews. I don't expect my experience to be your experience. But I don't see myself picking up more books from this author in the future.
Ella Wood was lackluster. The story failed to capture me. Emily wasn't a strong character. I much preferred her maid, Lizzie. The writer's research was stellar, and I appreciated the glimpse into the past, but many times the story felt forced--like the characters were behaving outside of what was normal for them in order to bring about a certain outcome in order to further the plot.
The description was certainly enough to interest me. But I read the first 5 chapters and then put the book down--for months. I only finished it because I literally have nothing better to do (I'm recovering from a long convalescence).
I fully appreciate that I'm the lone voice here in a sea of glowing reviews. I don't expect my experience to be your experience. But I don't see myself picking up more books from this author in the future.
July 17, 2015
Ella Wood is bold and profound, and heartbreaking and breathtaking all at once. Highly researched, this captivating work of historical fiction offers a penetrating look into South Carolina’s role in the civil war, the elite plantation owners, the customs and culture, and the horrific treatment of slaves. Readers will care about her distinct and memorable characters. Emily is strong-willed and determined to fight for what she believes, unlike her mother, a proper Southern lady who bows to her husband’s demands.
Isenhoff’s plot is realistic, gripping and full of tension. Her deliberate pacing keeps readers fully engaged. I am completely invested in this book and enjoyed every moment I spent with Ella Wood. The ending is unexpected and feels a bit rushed for me. It left me with many questions. I look forward to the second book in the Ella Wood Trilogy, which will be published in 2016. I highly recommend Ella Wood for YA and adults!
Isenhoff’s plot is realistic, gripping and full of tension. Her deliberate pacing keeps readers fully engaged. I am completely invested in this book and enjoyed every moment I spent with Ella Wood. The ending is unexpected and feels a bit rushed for me. It left me with many questions. I look forward to the second book in the Ella Wood Trilogy, which will be published in 2016. I highly recommend Ella Wood for YA and adults!
September 17, 2015
Emily lives at the plantation Ella Wood. She is coming into her first season and is struggling over feelings that the slaves are not treated right. Especially after she has returned from spending 18 months living with her Uncle and his progressive ideas in Detroit. Thus begins her struggle over the way things are run on the plantation, also in her personal life and what is expected of her. She decides she wants more than just to be a wife and mother. An excited start to what promises to be a great series.
* I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
* I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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