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Big Creek
The Whispering of the Willows
A 1920s' saga of Emerald Ashby coming of age. Set against the superstitions and old time religion in the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia, author Tonya Jewel Blessing tells a difficult, yet redemptive story of a blossoming young woman who is accompanied by her friends and her foes on a journey towards hope and healing. Love weaves through gut-wrenching circumstances and dismal poverty where Emerald Ashby grows strong despite grievous wrongs committed against her.
Synopsis: Eighth grade Emie is about to learn some hard lessons when a disturbed young man is thrust into her life by her abusive father and enabling mother. The folk faith of the Appalachian community becomes creative, taking a gamble against the local preacher, in their unique form of hospitality. If you like the emotive movie, Nell, or the writing of Chris Fabry's Dogwood, (a Lifetime movie) you will love The Whispering of the Willows.
"Tonya Blessing's sweet, unassuming voice deals artfully with racism, sexism, and religious bigotry. Superb storytelling interspersed with practical faith portrays the difficulty and beauty of Appalachian life." --Marilyn Bay Wentz, author of Prairie Grace.
LCSH: Teenage girls--Abuse of--Fiction. Rape victims--Fiction. Abusive men--Fiction. Poverty--Appalachian Region--Fiction. Appalachian Region--History--20th century--Fiction. Historical fiction. Bildungsromans.
The Whispering of the Willows is an inspiring story full of twists and turns, freedom and redemption, the expected and unexpected. This book brings to light the struggles of young woman past and present. God's goodness and provision flow from each page. --Linda Bottoms, Rocky Mountain Ministry Network Women's Ministries Director
Synopsis: Eighth grade Emie is about to learn some hard lessons when a disturbed young man is thrust into her life by her abusive father and enabling mother. The folk faith of the Appalachian community becomes creative, taking a gamble against the local preacher, in their unique form of hospitality. If you like the emotive movie, Nell, or the writing of Chris Fabry's Dogwood, (a Lifetime movie) you will love The Whispering of the Willows.
"Tonya Blessing's sweet, unassuming voice deals artfully with racism, sexism, and religious bigotry. Superb storytelling interspersed with practical faith portrays the difficulty and beauty of Appalachian life." --Marilyn Bay Wentz, author of Prairie Grace.
LCSH: Teenage girls--Abuse of--Fiction. Rape victims--Fiction. Abusive men--Fiction. Poverty--Appalachian Region--Fiction. Appalachian Region--History--20th century--Fiction. Historical fiction. Bildungsromans.
The Whispering of the Willows is an inspiring story full of twists and turns, freedom and redemption, the expected and unexpected. This book brings to light the struggles of young woman past and present. God's goodness and provision flow from each page. --Linda Bottoms, Rocky Mountain Ministry Network Women's Ministries Director
357 pages, Paperback
First published February 5, 2016
211 people are currently reading
137 people want to read
About the author
Tonya Jewel Blessing
4 books142 followersMost of Tonya’s adult life has been spent in full time ministry with a focus on helping women. She has traveled nationally and internationally as a conference speaker. For a number of years, Tonya and her husband operated a retreat facility in Colorado for pastors and missionaries.
Tonya and her husband, Chris, recently celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary. The couple currently lives in South Africa. They are the founders and directors of Strong Cross Ministries, a U.S. non-profit organization that has been in existence for close to 20 years. Strong Cross operates as a support system for churches, ministries, and schools. The organization also sponsors feeding programs for children, the elderly, and disabled; provides educational and medical assistance; works with local leaders in the Limpopo region; and hosts numerous faith based events for South Africans.
Tonya and her husband, Chris, recently celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary. The couple currently lives in South Africa. They are the founders and directors of Strong Cross Ministries, a U.S. non-profit organization that has been in existence for close to 20 years. Strong Cross operates as a support system for churches, ministries, and schools. The organization also sponsors feeding programs for children, the elderly, and disabled; provides educational and medical assistance; works with local leaders in the Limpopo region; and hosts numerous faith based events for South Africans.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
October 16, 2017
3.5 Stars
Emerald "Emie" Ashby is a young girl from a dirt poor family, just starting her teen years, coming of age in the small Appalachian town of Big Creek, West Virginia during the 1920s. With her 8th grade year of schooling coming to a close, Emie's father decides "she ain't a boy that can carry his weight", so he decides to arrange to have her married off to a local boy... a decision he makes without so much as a word to Emie herself.
It's the choice of the groom that gets everyone's hackles up. Young Charlie, still working through his teens himself, has already gotten himself a reputation for being short-tempered, mean-spirited, possibly even abusive towards women. Just like his father. Emie's mother, Alma, though used to acquiescing to her husband's wishes, fears that if this marriage goes through, her daughter will be unfairly condemned to a life of endless work and abuse from both husband and father-in-law, leaving her with little more than an utterly broken spirit. When Emie's father, Ahab, continues to insist that the match is a good one, Emie's older brother, Ernest, begins to have suspicions of ulterior motives. Sure enough, some digging on Ernest's part turns up the truth: Emie's marriage to this boy is so important to Ahab because of its ties to a business deal he needs to see succeed. Unfortunately, Ernest's involvement in the family drama also causes him to one night find young Emie propped against the support rail of a bridge, still alive but with her body battered & broken following a sexual assault.
From there the story becomes one of Emie's physical and emotional healing, working through the emotions that come with having one's childhood unexpectedly truncated, and the need to make sure such horror doesn't befall her younger sisters. Emie gets a fresh start under the protective wing of "Auntie Ada", not a biological aunt but one Emie calls a "love aunt", a longtime friend of Alma. It's in Alma's home that Emie experiences the kind of environment every young person should be privy to: one of love, kindness, tolerance and compassion for all. This is illustrated firsthand when Ada hears of a black man, ironically named Justice, who is falsely accused and arrested for Emie's assault. Everyone in town knows who's likely responsible, but because of the person's position in town, it's hushed up and a fall guy is produced. Well, Ada won't stand for it. Once Justice's release is arranged, she not only takes in him but his entire family to keep them safe from those who'd wish him harm. Not only does Ada offer the family food, shelter and friendship, but she also works her magic to arrange for educational opportunities for Justice's young children.
It's through the nurturing environment of Ada's homestead that Emie learns the true meaning of respect, love, and healthy family bonds. Through witnessing Ada tackling social injustices head on, Emie is provided a firm example of what it means to stand by one's word and protect the innocent.
I couldn't quite put my finger on what was creating the sensation, but there was something to the writing here that made this novel feel much more dense and complex than one might expect for being less than 400 pages. The plot somehow manages to simultaneously be complex yet easily imaginable, scary as that sounds. The characterization of Emie's father alone made much of the text hard to stomach, imagining a father that would repeatedly put his daughter in the path of danger with little more than a shoulder shrug and a hope for solid monetary gain for his decisions. And then there's Alma. The yin and yang of dysfunctional relationships -- if there's an abusive husband, there naturally has to be the doormat wife to say "he has his reasons for being difficult." In this case, Alma reasons away her husband's abuse by saying he wasn't the same man she married when he came back from World War 1, but the horrors he saw make him lash out....it's not really him doing it... etc. Just picturing this couple -- the father easily condoning the sexual assault of a minor so he can make a few extra bucks here and there, and his wife dismissing herself out of responsibility with a curt "mind your father" ... it made for a maddening reading experience! But it's a testament to author Tonya Jewel Blessing's writing that she can make a reader feel SO strongly towards her characters!
One way Blessing lightens the heaviness of some of the darker bits of the plot is by incorporating nods to Appalachian folklore as well as a sweet love story for Emie that quietly unfolds, teaching her to trust again and believe that a good man won't mind waiting for a great gal (and that these men do exist, if one only has faith!) The folklore that heads every chapter was entertaining, a number of them being not too far off from what many of us would deem "old wives' tales". Some of them are oddly specific, such as to keep evil away, find the left hind foot of a graveyard rabbit.. or flower that bloom out of season are evil. I got a kick out of some of the things that create bad luck, according to these Appalachian beliefs: bathing on your wedding day, watching a person leave until they are out of sight, dreaming of muddy water... just to name a few.
While the subject matter can be tough to stomach at times, Blessing's writing here has a true down-home way about it. Her way of describing the emotions and environments of these characters has a certain flow, a kind of lyricism to it that offers the reader a true sense of mountain life of the 1920s. There were times during the first half of the novel where portions of the writing came off a little too direct for this girl's liking, leaving little room for mystery or opportunities for the reader to have some fun with guessing / inference. However, the suspenseful plot twists (particularly the major tragedy explored in the final chapters) Blessing stashes away on the back end of the story more than made up for this! It's also admirable that Blessing uses a couple of her characters to address the struggle & hardships of interracial relationships within a largely racist community. It's sad to say that though this novel is set in the 1920s, what the reader sees this couple go through won't seem too unfathomable in today's world.
* FYI: or those interested in this book as a possible book club pick, a list of discussion questions is included at the back of the book.
FTC Disclaimer: Bookcrash.com & Capture Books kindly provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions above are entirely my own.
Emerald "Emie" Ashby is a young girl from a dirt poor family, just starting her teen years, coming of age in the small Appalachian town of Big Creek, West Virginia during the 1920s. With her 8th grade year of schooling coming to a close, Emie's father decides "she ain't a boy that can carry his weight", so he decides to arrange to have her married off to a local boy... a decision he makes without so much as a word to Emie herself.
It's the choice of the groom that gets everyone's hackles up. Young Charlie, still working through his teens himself, has already gotten himself a reputation for being short-tempered, mean-spirited, possibly even abusive towards women. Just like his father. Emie's mother, Alma, though used to acquiescing to her husband's wishes, fears that if this marriage goes through, her daughter will be unfairly condemned to a life of endless work and abuse from both husband and father-in-law, leaving her with little more than an utterly broken spirit. When Emie's father, Ahab, continues to insist that the match is a good one, Emie's older brother, Ernest, begins to have suspicions of ulterior motives. Sure enough, some digging on Ernest's part turns up the truth: Emie's marriage to this boy is so important to Ahab because of its ties to a business deal he needs to see succeed. Unfortunately, Ernest's involvement in the family drama also causes him to one night find young Emie propped against the support rail of a bridge, still alive but with her body battered & broken following a sexual assault.
From there the story becomes one of Emie's physical and emotional healing, working through the emotions that come with having one's childhood unexpectedly truncated, and the need to make sure such horror doesn't befall her younger sisters. Emie gets a fresh start under the protective wing of "Auntie Ada", not a biological aunt but one Emie calls a "love aunt", a longtime friend of Alma. It's in Alma's home that Emie experiences the kind of environment every young person should be privy to: one of love, kindness, tolerance and compassion for all. This is illustrated firsthand when Ada hears of a black man, ironically named Justice, who is falsely accused and arrested for Emie's assault. Everyone in town knows who's likely responsible, but because of the person's position in town, it's hushed up and a fall guy is produced. Well, Ada won't stand for it. Once Justice's release is arranged, she not only takes in him but his entire family to keep them safe from those who'd wish him harm. Not only does Ada offer the family food, shelter and friendship, but she also works her magic to arrange for educational opportunities for Justice's young children.
It's through the nurturing environment of Ada's homestead that Emie learns the true meaning of respect, love, and healthy family bonds. Through witnessing Ada tackling social injustices head on, Emie is provided a firm example of what it means to stand by one's word and protect the innocent.
I couldn't quite put my finger on what was creating the sensation, but there was something to the writing here that made this novel feel much more dense and complex than one might expect for being less than 400 pages. The plot somehow manages to simultaneously be complex yet easily imaginable, scary as that sounds. The characterization of Emie's father alone made much of the text hard to stomach, imagining a father that would repeatedly put his daughter in the path of danger with little more than a shoulder shrug and a hope for solid monetary gain for his decisions. And then there's Alma. The yin and yang of dysfunctional relationships -- if there's an abusive husband, there naturally has to be the doormat wife to say "he has his reasons for being difficult." In this case, Alma reasons away her husband's abuse by saying he wasn't the same man she married when he came back from World War 1, but the horrors he saw make him lash out....it's not really him doing it... etc. Just picturing this couple -- the father easily condoning the sexual assault of a minor so he can make a few extra bucks here and there, and his wife dismissing herself out of responsibility with a curt "mind your father" ... it made for a maddening reading experience! But it's a testament to author Tonya Jewel Blessing's writing that she can make a reader feel SO strongly towards her characters!
One way Blessing lightens the heaviness of some of the darker bits of the plot is by incorporating nods to Appalachian folklore as well as a sweet love story for Emie that quietly unfolds, teaching her to trust again and believe that a good man won't mind waiting for a great gal (and that these men do exist, if one only has faith!) The folklore that heads every chapter was entertaining, a number of them being not too far off from what many of us would deem "old wives' tales". Some of them are oddly specific, such as to keep evil away, find the left hind foot of a graveyard rabbit.. or flower that bloom out of season are evil. I got a kick out of some of the things that create bad luck, according to these Appalachian beliefs: bathing on your wedding day, watching a person leave until they are out of sight, dreaming of muddy water... just to name a few.
While the subject matter can be tough to stomach at times, Blessing's writing here has a true down-home way about it. Her way of describing the emotions and environments of these characters has a certain flow, a kind of lyricism to it that offers the reader a true sense of mountain life of the 1920s. There were times during the first half of the novel where portions of the writing came off a little too direct for this girl's liking, leaving little room for mystery or opportunities for the reader to have some fun with guessing / inference. However, the suspenseful plot twists (particularly the major tragedy explored in the final chapters) Blessing stashes away on the back end of the story more than made up for this! It's also admirable that Blessing uses a couple of her characters to address the struggle & hardships of interracial relationships within a largely racist community. It's sad to say that though this novel is set in the 1920s, what the reader sees this couple go through won't seem too unfathomable in today's world.
* FYI: or those interested in this book as a possible book club pick, a list of discussion questions is included at the back of the book.
FTC Disclaimer: Bookcrash.com & Capture Books kindly provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions above are entirely my own.
March 24, 2017
The Whispering of the Willows by Tonya Blessing
Met the author and her book on the book fun chat and knew I wanted to read this book. It starts out with a large family that live in the holler in the Appalachian Mountains.
Girls are named after gems which I loved right from the start. Boys run the hog farm as their dad came back from the war wounded and in a wheelchair. The girls make sure he is bathed every day and they do the shaving along with planting seeds in the garden, tending to the outhouse and tending to the pigs and piglets.
Only the oldest who are going to leave after the 8th grade to be married do the cooking. The girls all sleep in the same bed cordoned off with an old curtain.
We have visited the Mountains and have been able to see the cabins of the old days in TN and in WVA areas for ourselves.
Love that the aunts work comes through as her love by using her hands to create.
Story is mainly about Emerald who is also in 8th grade and is growing up but her mother doesn't want her to leave as the twin girls will be married in the summer, Emerald to be married later.
They don't get to pick their spouses they only know they are to wed and to produce children and work on farms the rest of their lives.
Husbands grandfather ran a hog farm and I find it interesting to learn how the boys tend to them as we see hogs in their natural habitat and the historic villages we visit throughout the years.
Ernest singing hymns as he does his chores, at the top of his lungs, Lester mixed up with pastor's son making moonshine-what a busy family.
Emie goes through a personal tragedy and her parents want her to be gone, her brother Ernest helps her and she is able to live at her aunts. Others help her and she learns the truth later when one of the people invoked has to leave the area.
Love hearing the folk belief-like a wives tale or farmers almanac entry. Store follows each of the children but more on Emerald.
Twists and turns and God has his own plans for them. Love the hymns singing and how everybody practices. Such a strong and courageous bunch to endure all the hardships.
I was given the book from the author via Book Fun (The Book Club Network) and this is my honest review.
Met the author and her book on the book fun chat and knew I wanted to read this book. It starts out with a large family that live in the holler in the Appalachian Mountains.
Girls are named after gems which I loved right from the start. Boys run the hog farm as their dad came back from the war wounded and in a wheelchair. The girls make sure he is bathed every day and they do the shaving along with planting seeds in the garden, tending to the outhouse and tending to the pigs and piglets.
Only the oldest who are going to leave after the 8th grade to be married do the cooking. The girls all sleep in the same bed cordoned off with an old curtain.
We have visited the Mountains and have been able to see the cabins of the old days in TN and in WVA areas for ourselves.
Love that the aunts work comes through as her love by using her hands to create.
Story is mainly about Emerald who is also in 8th grade and is growing up but her mother doesn't want her to leave as the twin girls will be married in the summer, Emerald to be married later.
They don't get to pick their spouses they only know they are to wed and to produce children and work on farms the rest of their lives.
Husbands grandfather ran a hog farm and I find it interesting to learn how the boys tend to them as we see hogs in their natural habitat and the historic villages we visit throughout the years.
Ernest singing hymns as he does his chores, at the top of his lungs, Lester mixed up with pastor's son making moonshine-what a busy family.
Emie goes through a personal tragedy and her parents want her to be gone, her brother Ernest helps her and she is able to live at her aunts. Others help her and she learns the truth later when one of the people invoked has to leave the area.
Love hearing the folk belief-like a wives tale or farmers almanac entry. Store follows each of the children but more on Emerald.
Twists and turns and God has his own plans for them. Love the hymns singing and how everybody practices. Such a strong and courageous bunch to endure all the hardships.
I was given the book from the author via Book Fun (The Book Club Network) and this is my honest review.
November 30, 2017
If this young romance doesn't touch your heart, I think you need to run--oops, no, walk or drive--to the nearest cardiologist, because there is something wrong with your ticker.
Emie is the child of a manipulative and sadistic father and a placating mother in the superstitious Virginia hill country. When her father promises her to the town bully (and son of the local preacher), Charlie, Emie said no. Not that it made any difference. And when that intended brutally rapes her just after her eighth grade graduation, Emie's father blames her for shaming the family. Even when the doctor and sheriff corroborate her story.
Ernest, Emie's brother, and Rudy, one of her schoolmates, support her, and Ernest takes her to a non-related aunt (Auntie Ada) to live. Ada welcomes her with open arms. Ernest brings her a puppy who will grow up to be her protector, he hopes. Ernest and Rudy come by almost daily, and gradually she heals in mind and body.
Danger lurks from Charlie, who is now out of jail, breathing threats because she'd sworn he was the culprit. If she won't change her story ....
Available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Come of age with this torn, innocent girl.
I received a free copy of this book from the author, but the opinions and evaluations are my own.
Emie is the child of a manipulative and sadistic father and a placating mother in the superstitious Virginia hill country. When her father promises her to the town bully (and son of the local preacher), Charlie, Emie said no. Not that it made any difference. And when that intended brutally rapes her just after her eighth grade graduation, Emie's father blames her for shaming the family. Even when the doctor and sheriff corroborate her story.
Ernest, Emie's brother, and Rudy, one of her schoolmates, support her, and Ernest takes her to a non-related aunt (Auntie Ada) to live. Ada welcomes her with open arms. Ernest brings her a puppy who will grow up to be her protector, he hopes. Ernest and Rudy come by almost daily, and gradually she heals in mind and body.
Danger lurks from Charlie, who is now out of jail, breathing threats because she'd sworn he was the culprit. If she won't change her story ....
Available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Come of age with this torn, innocent girl.
I received a free copy of this book from the author, but the opinions and evaluations are my own.
August 21, 2017
I just finished The Whispering of the Willows by Tonya Jewel Blessing and have to say it is one of the best books I've read in a very long time. That's saying a lot because I'm a bookworm! This book introduces the reader to the Ashby family and the people of Big Creek. It is a work of historical fiction set in the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia in the early 1920s. It is a story of strength in the face of adversity, the power of love and the importance of family, whether they be connected by blood or love.
Once I started reading this story, I couldn't put it down. I laughed and cried throughout the book and was very sorry to see it end. This will be one that sticks with me for a long time to come. The author truly has a gift for storytelling. I can't wait to see what she writes next.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through The Book Club Network, Inc., in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.
Once I started reading this story, I couldn't put it down. I laughed and cried throughout the book and was very sorry to see it end. This will be one that sticks with me for a long time to come. The author truly has a gift for storytelling. I can't wait to see what she writes next.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through The Book Club Network, Inc., in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.
August 27, 2019
Love and Faith
I loved the folk beliefs before each chapter, and the songs and hymns contained within the book.
Life was hard in the 1920's and especially in the poor regions of the Appalachian mountains. The young grew up too soon, the adults grew old too soon. Some were scared by tragic events or the war. Some were wayward and caused trouble. Most were devout Christians in their faith through good and bad times. The community rallied around the citizens and helped each other.
I loved the characters in the book. They were true to life whether good or bad. I especially liked Emerald and Rudy. Emerald was so courageous in her time of troubles at such a young age. Rudy stepped up and supported her and showed her she was loved. Ernest Emerald's brother was there for everyone.
This was an inspirational book, I enjoyed it a great deal. I will definitely recommend it to anyone. I can't wait to read the next book.
I loved the folk beliefs before each chapter, and the songs and hymns contained within the book.
Life was hard in the 1920's and especially in the poor regions of the Appalachian mountains. The young grew up too soon, the adults grew old too soon. Some were scared by tragic events or the war. Some were wayward and caused trouble. Most were devout Christians in their faith through good and bad times. The community rallied around the citizens and helped each other.
I loved the characters in the book. They were true to life whether good or bad. I especially liked Emerald and Rudy. Emerald was so courageous in her time of troubles at such a young age. Rudy stepped up and supported her and showed her she was loved. Ernest Emerald's brother was there for everyone.
This was an inspirational book, I enjoyed it a great deal. I will definitely recommend it to anyone. I can't wait to read the next book.
June 11, 2019
Very touching story
I read this on my kindle, and ive ejoyed it enough i want to buy a hard copy to keep, and maybe share with my mom and daughters. I kinda think even my husband might enjoy this book. Its characters are all well written, it keeps you wondering whats gonna happen to these poor people next, all the way to the last page. I had hoped thepre would be a different ending for Emie's mom. Loved thleir unwavering faith in God. I found that refreshing. Id give it 6 stars if i could.
I read this on my kindle, and ive ejoyed it enough i want to buy a hard copy to keep, and maybe share with my mom and daughters. I kinda think even my husband might enjoy this book. Its characters are all well written, it keeps you wondering whats gonna happen to these poor people next, all the way to the last page. I had hoped thepre would be a different ending for Emie's mom. Loved thleir unwavering faith in God. I found that refreshing. Id give it 6 stars if i could.
August 25, 2017
Trigger Warning: While this is an amazing story it is not necessarily appropriate for all readers. It does contain the sexual assault of a teen girl and the aftermath of thereof. It is dealt with in a manner of faith however that does not lessen the need to offer this warning.
Warnings out of the way lets talk nitty-gritty.
I found it interesting that the very front of the book is an editor's note regarding the idea of this to be read and discussed by mother's and young daughters. While, in theory this is something important that children and young adults need to have the tools to deal with, I also feel that there is a massive (beyond huge) audience out there that are more at risk that do not have parents/guardians/trusted adults to have these conversations with. I'm not sure that I personally could blanket recommend this book even though it is handled through faith.
Before I get too deep into this and talk about what I loved about this book I need to mention a couple of little 'other things'. There were a couple of editing glitches where a much needed 'the' was left out. Several times the term 'love aunt' was used in reference to Auntie Ada, which read awkwardly. My final grip, (I know sorry!) was that Emerald and Emie were used interchangeably, while not that bad but in awkward ways. The narrator voice would switch back and forth, several paragraphs using Emie then randomly throwing out Emerald. I can see that in conversation but it was distracting otherwise. It wasn't like there was need to re identify her, she was the main character. Oh, that is out of the way.
Emie (Emerald) was a likeable character. The characters were so well developed that you loved with all your heart, you detested with all your might, and you prayed right along with them as issues and resolutions came to pass. Naivete was the rule in the holler during this time period. Even at 14, Emie wasn't exactly sure what was happening but she knew it was bad. Rudy, at 14, had know since they met that he loved Emie and they were meant to be together; despite what happened. There is so much more to this story than Emie and Rudy but an entirely community and family to embrace and weave together. Yes, it's a pretty heavy story. But even in the darkness there was so much light.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by BookCrash. I was not compensated for this review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.
Originally published at https://fizzypopcollection.blogspot.c....
Warnings out of the way lets talk nitty-gritty.
I found it interesting that the very front of the book is an editor's note regarding the idea of this to be read and discussed by mother's and young daughters. While, in theory this is something important that children and young adults need to have the tools to deal with, I also feel that there is a massive (beyond huge) audience out there that are more at risk that do not have parents/guardians/trusted adults to have these conversations with. I'm not sure that I personally could blanket recommend this book even though it is handled through faith.
Before I get too deep into this and talk about what I loved about this book I need to mention a couple of little 'other things'. There were a couple of editing glitches where a much needed 'the' was left out. Several times the term 'love aunt' was used in reference to Auntie Ada, which read awkwardly. My final grip, (I know sorry!) was that Emerald and Emie were used interchangeably, while not that bad but in awkward ways. The narrator voice would switch back and forth, several paragraphs using Emie then randomly throwing out Emerald. I can see that in conversation but it was distracting otherwise. It wasn't like there was need to re identify her, she was the main character. Oh, that is out of the way.
Emie (Emerald) was a likeable character. The characters were so well developed that you loved with all your heart, you detested with all your might, and you prayed right along with them as issues and resolutions came to pass. Naivete was the rule in the holler during this time period. Even at 14, Emie wasn't exactly sure what was happening but she knew it was bad. Rudy, at 14, had know since they met that he loved Emie and they were meant to be together; despite what happened. There is so much more to this story than Emie and Rudy but an entirely community and family to embrace and weave together. Yes, it's a pretty heavy story. But even in the darkness there was so much light.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by BookCrash. I was not compensated for this review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.
Originally published at https://fizzypopcollection.blogspot.c....
May 13, 2020
A beautifully written tale of growing up in 1920’s West Virginia. During a time when life was hard and families depended on the boys to help take care of the home. This story brings to life the location of the Appalachian Mountains and the home of the Ashby family. In this quaint tale of yesteryear, we as readers are drawn into the story of young Emie as she reaches a milestone in her life only to be taken into a desperate place due to the financial hardships of her family. We are taken on walks through the mountains only to encounter situations that cause anger. We meet characters that we love and those that we dislike. Along with the characters, we experience the pain and joy of this story as we see how one family patriarch seeks to provide for his family, only to have it rip his family from his home. This tale is intriguing yet laced with Appalachian romance. We read as the family faces heartache only to learn they have strong beliefs in the love of God. Winding through the mountains of deceit God makes his presence know to Emie, Rudy and Ernest. Hope comes to life as Emie overcomes obstacles that were made to contain her in a life of marriage slavery and bondage. The Revealing of how God’s love whispering in the willows brings the reader to a place of faith and hope when things seem to be hopeless.
I found it fun that the author used the dialect of the Appalachia accent. It brought to life the characters and how they interacted daily. It allowed me to understand that each area of this great nation has its own history and way of growth.
I found it fun that the author used the dialect of the Appalachia accent. It brought to life the characters and how they interacted daily. It allowed me to understand that each area of this great nation has its own history and way of growth.
June 10, 2020
A beautifully written tale of growing up in 1920’s West Virginia. During a time when life was hard and families depended on the boys to help take care of the home. This story brings to life the location of the Appalachian Mountains and the home of the Ashby family. In this quaint tale of yesteryear, we as readers are drawn into the story of young Emie as she reaches a milestone in her life only to be taken into a desperate place due to the financial hardships of her family. We are taken on walks through the mountains only to encounter situations that cause anger. We meet characters that we love and those that we dislike. Along with the characters, we experience the pain and joy of this story as we see how one family patriarch seeks to provide for his family, only to have it rip his family from his home. This tale is intriguing yet laced with Appalachian romance. We read as the family faces heartache only to learn they have strong beliefs in the love of God. Winding through the mountains of deceit God makes his presence know to Emie, Rudy and Ernest. Hope comes to life as Emie overcomes obstacles that were made to contain her in a life of marriage slavery and bondage. The Revealing of how God’s love whispering in the willows brings the reader to a place of faith and hope when things seem to be hopeless.
I found it fun that the author used the dialect of the Appalachia accent. It brought to life the characters and how they interacted daily. It allowed me to understand that each area of this great nation has its own history and way of growth.
I found it fun that the author used the dialect of the Appalachia accent. It brought to life the characters and how they interacted daily. It allowed me to understand that each area of this great nation has its own history and way of growth.
September 5, 2017
The Whispering of the Willows by Tonya Jewel Blessing is a historical fiction set in the late 1920’s in the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia. The story’s central character—Emerald—a strong, young woman who has to deal with tough life situations and lessons, including a weak mother and a selfish, cruel father, is only one of the several intriguing characters. Emmie and an appealing cast of characters—an endearing extended family, friends, and tight-knit community—immerse the reader in a realistic experience of that time period. The community supports those hurting and in need, surrounding them in love and faith. As in any community, not everyone lives out love and faith, and there are a few—like Emmie’s father-- intent upon using and hurting others for their own sakes. Overcoming tremendous wrongs and becoming stronger throughout, the characters keep the reader interested in this compelling story. I recommend this book that I received through TBCN in exchange for an honest review.
August 11, 2019
Good story but...
Writing is amateurish and the social history is politically incorrect for the 1920's setting. There are also issues with editing: "check" for "cheek, and "might" for "mite" and calling the character "Garnett" by the name of character "Sapphire" . Lots of typos. These types of errors bother me as they slow down reading and take me out of the story.
It was obvious the author was using the story as a soapbox to proselytize Christianity and give information to rape survivors. I didn't mind this so much, as the Christian references were positive and information was valid but it did remind me I was reading a story from someone's imagination --made up. I prefer to feel the truth in fiction,and the attitudes and perspectives of main characters were 100 years too soon, detracting from that truth.
The Appalachian setting and character development were excellent. Amid hardships that felt very real, there were moments of love and kinship that also felt genuinely believable.
Writing is amateurish and the social history is politically incorrect for the 1920's setting. There are also issues with editing: "check" for "cheek, and "might" for "mite" and calling the character "Garnett" by the name of character "Sapphire" . Lots of typos. These types of errors bother me as they slow down reading and take me out of the story.
It was obvious the author was using the story as a soapbox to proselytize Christianity and give information to rape survivors. I didn't mind this so much, as the Christian references were positive and information was valid but it did remind me I was reading a story from someone's imagination --made up. I prefer to feel the truth in fiction,and the attitudes and perspectives of main characters were 100 years too soon, detracting from that truth.
The Appalachian setting and character development were excellent. Amid hardships that felt very real, there were moments of love and kinship that also felt genuinely believable.
February 1, 2023
Whispering of the willows by Tonya Jewel Blessing
(An audiobook read on Scribd)
The time is 1920, Emerald Ashby comes of age in the backwoods of West Virginia. Born in a big family that are in poverty, her father (wheelchair bound from the Great War) does not place much value in his girl children and marries them off at the first advantageous opportunity. Emeralds mother has been so abused for so long she just goes along with whatever her husband says. She believes that it is her lot to obey her husband no matter what.
So when Emerald comes of age to marry, her father trades her to a cruel man/boy to get an interest in man/boys moonshine business. However things happen that horribly change Emeralds life before the wedding can take place and it’s Emeralds brother and Her aunt who save her and through their efforts Emerald learns what it is like to be cared about and treasured.
Emeralds strong faith as well her brothers carry them through some awful times in this book and sees them standing tall on the other side.
Would i buy it? Probably not
(An audiobook read on Scribd)
The time is 1920, Emerald Ashby comes of age in the backwoods of West Virginia. Born in a big family that are in poverty, her father (wheelchair bound from the Great War) does not place much value in his girl children and marries them off at the first advantageous opportunity. Emeralds mother has been so abused for so long she just goes along with whatever her husband says. She believes that it is her lot to obey her husband no matter what.
So when Emerald comes of age to marry, her father trades her to a cruel man/boy to get an interest in man/boys moonshine business. However things happen that horribly change Emeralds life before the wedding can take place and it’s Emeralds brother and Her aunt who save her and through their efforts Emerald learns what it is like to be cared about and treasured.
Emeralds strong faith as well her brothers carry them through some awful times in this book and sees them standing tall on the other side.
Would i buy it? Probably not
October 18, 2024
Super conflicted about this book. On one hand, the atmosphere is just what I was looking for from it, but on the other, the main characters annoyed the bejeezus out of me. Secondary characters like Ahab, the mother and Lester were far more interesting to me, but the author gave very little insight into their stories, which, particularly in the case of Lester and the mother, made the story somewhat disjointed. Also, this book should have ended waaaaay earlier, it’s like we’re trying to cram every single social injustice of the time into one package. The God aspect also felt overdone. All in all, it didn’t bore me and was an ok listen, but… meh.
November 10, 2019
Just this week, I opened up the cover of The Whispering of the Willows again, this time in the hardcover edition, and reread the powerful opening scene. In no time at all, I had reread the story of Emie and the Ashby family. It is rare to find an author willing to delve into the depths of history, culture, humanity, and childhood faith in a first book.
Tonya Jewel Blessing has a natural, easy-going rhythm of storytelling even when the subjects are complex and controversial. She just tells it like it is. This book will always be a favorite for me.
Tonya Jewel Blessing has a natural, easy-going rhythm of storytelling even when the subjects are complex and controversial. She just tells it like it is. This book will always be a favorite for me.
October 6, 2019
I didn't know when I purchased this book that it was a christian book. I found it a bit annoying. I don't mind books that have a little preachyness going on, but this book overdid it a bit. It would put the lyrics to most of the songs and was making constant reference to praying. Because I bought the audible version of this on Kindle it just bothered me because I couldn't read over it.
But other than that I found the story line and characters were very well done. I liked this book.
But other than that I found the story line and characters were very well done. I liked this book.
May 28, 2021
It was a gripping story, but the dialogue was just too unrealistic for me to fully enjoy it. And I wish Ernest’s story would’ve been finished. Instead, I felt that part of the story left me hanging. All in all, if I wouldn’t have enjoyed any of it, I wouldn’t have kept reading, and I finished it to the very end simply because the plot kept me turning pages. Very good job on keeping the reader interested.
October 20, 2021
Truly enjoyed this story!
What a life these folks lived! I can’t imagine, but the descriptions really gave a true visual of that time of life! Love, heartache, but most of all their belief in God is extraordinary!
What a life these folks lived! I can’t imagine, but the descriptions really gave a true visual of that time of life! Love, heartache, but most of all their belief in God is extraordinary!
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December 14, 2022As I read this story, I was reminded of my grandmother who was married at age 12. Her stepmother and father gave her to a 20 plus year old man. Her story reminded me of the girls in Whispering of the Willows. There is sadness that is overcome with love and faith.
March 11, 2022
very well written, couldn't put it down.
December 27, 2016
Wonderful book about a young girl growing up in the hills of WV during the 1920s. Her life is one of more misery than I can even imagine - but throughout her hard times - she leans on God and His strength. The book has a wonderful Christian message of hope and the ability to overcome the worst things with God's help. Highly recommend it.
April 9, 2017
“The Whispering of the Willows,” by Tonya Jewel Blessing is historical fiction. This book kept my attention for all 389 pages! This is a beautifully written story that takes place in the 1920s, in the Appalachian Mountains. Times were hard, people were poor, and they all had struggles.
For the Ashby family, life is very rough. Dad, injured in war and paralyzed from the waist down, is very angry, controlling and abusive. Mom just takes it, she makes no effort to protect her many children from his wrath and she often sides with him against the kids. Therefore, when he decides to have Emerald marry Charlie, her mom goes along with the plan. Have I mentioned Emerald is only 14 years old?
Thank goodness for Aunt Ada, the one adult that Emerald can always count on to offer wisdom, hugs and unconditional love. As Emerald’s life goes from bad to worse, Aunt Ada is there to pick up the pieces. As she teaches Emerald about basket weaving she also shares her deep faith in Jesus. The healing Emerald receives from her aunt and from Jesus, as well as from the beauty of the great outdoors slowly help her mend.
“The Whispering of the Willows” has many twists and turns! Some of the themes in this story are very painful, abuse, racism and rape, along with some very lovely themes of redemption, love and the peace of Jesus Christ. Tonya Jewel Blessing has written a great story that many can relate to on several different levels.
I received this book from The Book Club Network and Capture Books, in exchange for my honest review.
For the Ashby family, life is very rough. Dad, injured in war and paralyzed from the waist down, is very angry, controlling and abusive. Mom just takes it, she makes no effort to protect her many children from his wrath and she often sides with him against the kids. Therefore, when he decides to have Emerald marry Charlie, her mom goes along with the plan. Have I mentioned Emerald is only 14 years old?
Thank goodness for Aunt Ada, the one adult that Emerald can always count on to offer wisdom, hugs and unconditional love. As Emerald’s life goes from bad to worse, Aunt Ada is there to pick up the pieces. As she teaches Emerald about basket weaving she also shares her deep faith in Jesus. The healing Emerald receives from her aunt and from Jesus, as well as from the beauty of the great outdoors slowly help her mend.
“The Whispering of the Willows” has many twists and turns! Some of the themes in this story are very painful, abuse, racism and rape, along with some very lovely themes of redemption, love and the peace of Jesus Christ. Tonya Jewel Blessing has written a great story that many can relate to on several different levels.
I received this book from The Book Club Network and Capture Books, in exchange for my honest review.
April 23, 2017
I really enjoyed the book. The plot was interesting and the characters were well-developed. The only negative thing I have to say is that while I enjoyed the insertion of gospel hymns in the text, it was a little overdone. I think using fewer of them could have served the same purpose. It felt as if the author was interested in displaying her knowledge of gospel music.
April 27, 2017
“The Whispering of the Willows” by Tonya Jewel Blessing was an excellent read. The author wrote this story in such a way that it felt like I was living in the pages! This book had sad and happy moments. The story is set in the late 1920s in the Appalachian Mountain of West Virginia. Emerald, an eighth grader, is the main character. She lives with her abusive father and a mother who just does what the father wants. We watch Emerald as she goes through abuse and comes through with hope and healing. This story had a few twists and turns throughout the 389 pages. This novel is not something I would usually read, but I really enjoyed it. I would definitely recommend this novel. "I was given the book by Book Fun (The Book Club Network) and here is my honest review."
May 2, 2017
This was Tonya Jewel Blessing's debut novel and was an enjoyable read. It kept my interest from the very beginning. It tells the story of Emerald Ashby, Emie to her friends and family, and the challenges she faced growing up in the Appalachian mountains of WV in the 1920s. She was the daughter of a man that fought in WWI and came back injured and hard. It is an inspirational story and I loved the spiritual truths, scripture, and songs sprinkled throughout. The characters were relatable and you could see their growth as the story progressed. I enjoyed the wives tales that were included at the beginning of each chapter. I hope there will be a sequel.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
June 23, 2017
Whispering of the willows
I absolutely loved the characters and the story. Their faith in God helped them through the trials they faced. The story is engrossing and very believable. Hope this book is a winner for the author.
I absolutely loved the characters and the story. Their faith in God helped them through the trials they faced. The story is engrossing and very believable. Hope this book is a winner for the author.
May 9, 2017
A story of perseverance and faith.
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