What do you think?
Rate this book
Lee County Elegy
From Courtney Allen, the author of the award-winning novel, Down From The Mountain, comes Lee County Elegy, an equal work in depth, character portrayal, and historical fiction. This novel is the morally challenging account of the Grayson family, of how they survive in the rural south during the Great Depression, and by what means they overcome a life leading to near destitution. In the beginning, Mac Grayson suffers a critical lumberyard accident that leaves him helpless to support his farm and family. Due to the onslaught of the weakening economy, land values plummet and the bank threatens to foreclose. During a drought, a bitter dispute with a wealthy landowner concerning water access to the Flint River becomes a contentious argument, and volatile tensions mount. In order to survive, an agreement must be met, but Mac's young daughter reluctantly becomes a means of negotiation to assuage their neighbor's divisiveness. In this story, the Graysons are faced with few resources and endless controversies fraught with dire consequences that create challenges almost impossible to overcome. Filled with page-turning suspense and unyielding dilemmas, the ends required to endure are made by difficult choices, and the honor of each character is brought into question as the story unfolds. This depression era novel is of sorrow and redemption, struggle and hardship, of love and loss. The pace is fast, the heart of the book strong, and the ending bittersweet yet satisfyingly triumphant. For historical fiction lovers, Lee County Elegy is worth reading.
410 pages, Paperback
Published November 20, 2017
1 person is currently reading
30 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
June 9, 2018
4 stars
Thank You Courtney Allen for sending me this book. It is about the Grayson family in southern Georgia, US, during the depression. They are almost destitute, because their cotton crop has failed due to drought and the boll weevil. They could lose the farm, because they can no longer pay on the mortgage. In a way, this book reminds me of a Kristin Hannah book called The Great Alone In that book there was a central character who had to overcome adversity.
The central character is Myra Grayson, adopted daughter of Maclin and Ila Mae Grayson.
Some other characters:
Arden Grayson, Myra's oldest brother
Cade Grayson, Myra's other brother
Jack Waylon, Grayson's neighbor, who wants their land, because his wells have gone dry in the drought, and Graysons still have water.
Wynonna, Jack's servant for over 20 years.
J.R. Rutledge, Americus First Trust banker and holder of Grayson mortgage.
William Tullman, retired lawyer and Maclin Grayson's friend.
Throughout the book, some secrets come to light, and others are revealed only to the reader. I thought that the ending was very satisfying. The first half of the book is a little slow. There are very good descriptions of the plants and wildlife. The descriptions of work on a farm in 1930s Georgia is very realistic.
Some quotes:
Myra thinking about memories; "The thoughts of yesteryear as if seen through fragile sheets of rice paper held to a window in the morning light, beyond where the veil of faces had become faded and their voices lost to time."
Mac showing Myra a family legacy: "This was your momma's set of poems. And her elegy she called it. She named this Lee County Elegy."
Poverty: "Poverty was written in their still eyes and grief was drawn on their weary faces."
My Goodreads friend Aisling recommended this book to me.
Thank You Courtney Allen for sending me this book. It is about the Grayson family in southern Georgia, US, during the depression. They are almost destitute, because their cotton crop has failed due to drought and the boll weevil. They could lose the farm, because they can no longer pay on the mortgage. In a way, this book reminds me of a Kristin Hannah book called The Great Alone In that book there was a central character who had to overcome adversity.
The central character is Myra Grayson, adopted daughter of Maclin and Ila Mae Grayson.
Some other characters:
Arden Grayson, Myra's oldest brother
Cade Grayson, Myra's other brother
Jack Waylon, Grayson's neighbor, who wants their land, because his wells have gone dry in the drought, and Graysons still have water.
Wynonna, Jack's servant for over 20 years.
J.R. Rutledge, Americus First Trust banker and holder of Grayson mortgage.
William Tullman, retired lawyer and Maclin Grayson's friend.
Throughout the book, some secrets come to light, and others are revealed only to the reader. I thought that the ending was very satisfying. The first half of the book is a little slow. There are very good descriptions of the plants and wildlife. The descriptions of work on a farm in 1930s Georgia is very realistic.
Some quotes:
Myra thinking about memories; "The thoughts of yesteryear as if seen through fragile sheets of rice paper held to a window in the morning light, beyond where the veil of faces had become faded and their voices lost to time."
Mac showing Myra a family legacy: "This was your momma's set of poems. And her elegy she called it. She named this Lee County Elegy."
Poverty: "Poverty was written in their still eyes and grief was drawn on their weary faces."
My Goodreads friend Aisling recommended this book to me.
September 11, 2018
”Yet time ran its course, and the disease of hunger took some of the very best, one by one, as the sun rose on the dawn of the depression era.”
This story begins as the Great Depression is worming its way through the country. People have lost homes, jobs, some lost everything they owned, but the Grayson family didn’t have all that much to begin with. A simple home, some land, but nothing about their life could have been considered a lifestyle. It was just… life, and it was hard.
The Graysons were a hardworking family. Arden was the eldest brother, Cade the middle child, and Myra the youngest. When Myra was a young child, Maclin and Ila Mae Grayson adopted her.
As this story plays out, some people will get hurt, some people will lose everything, some people will make the wrong decisions.
Typically, I’m partial to stories set in the South, but I can’t say that I loved this. The writing, itself, suffers from needing an editor (I’m sure that this has been mentioned by others, but…) not only for misspellings and some peculiarly phrased sentences, and more. Additionally, my feeling was that this suffered from too much telling, not enough showing. This story had the potential to be better.
On another note – I understand the time-frame and that this takes place in another era, without our current era’s sensitivities to such things (until I remember the events that have unfolded over the last two years), but, for me, the racially offensive terminology used, in this story was more than unsettling, regardless. It was unnecessary, didn’t move the story along, and in the worst instance near the end of the book, it seemed that “scene” was added as an afterthought. It isn’t as though this was written in the 1930’s. It serves no purpose and takes the reader out of the story.
3 Stars for the story.
Minus 1 Star for the spelling, etc. errors and the racially insensitive terminology used.
Many thanks for the copy of this book I received from the author, I ended up reading this on my kindle, instead, because it was easier for me.
This story begins as the Great Depression is worming its way through the country. People have lost homes, jobs, some lost everything they owned, but the Grayson family didn’t have all that much to begin with. A simple home, some land, but nothing about their life could have been considered a lifestyle. It was just… life, and it was hard.
The Graysons were a hardworking family. Arden was the eldest brother, Cade the middle child, and Myra the youngest. When Myra was a young child, Maclin and Ila Mae Grayson adopted her.
As this story plays out, some people will get hurt, some people will lose everything, some people will make the wrong decisions.
Typically, I’m partial to stories set in the South, but I can’t say that I loved this. The writing, itself, suffers from needing an editor (I’m sure that this has been mentioned by others, but…) not only for misspellings and some peculiarly phrased sentences, and more. Additionally, my feeling was that this suffered from too much telling, not enough showing. This story had the potential to be better.
On another note – I understand the time-frame and that this takes place in another era, without our current era’s sensitivities to such things (until I remember the events that have unfolded over the last two years), but, for me, the racially offensive terminology used, in this story was more than unsettling, regardless. It was unnecessary, didn’t move the story along, and in the worst instance near the end of the book, it seemed that “scene” was added as an afterthought. It isn’t as though this was written in the 1930’s. It serves no purpose and takes the reader out of the story.
3 Stars for the story.
Minus 1 Star for the spelling, etc. errors and the racially insensitive terminology used.
Many thanks for the copy of this book I received from the author, I ended up reading this on my kindle, instead, because it was easier for me.
May 7, 2018
This historical book takes place in Lee county, Georgia during the Great Depression. The family and the town are poor, although there are very few others who get by all right. The economy is so very tenuous and with each slight, be it the drought, ill health, storms, sick animals, broken farm equipment, etc. lives can considerably changed at a moments notice.
This story also reveals how banks and the legal and policing systems worked during that time period; you’d get a visit by the solicitor if you were late with your mortgage payments on your land and due for foreclosure. There was cheating and scheming by others to benefit from your loss at any cost even if it meant criminal behavior on their end. Criminal trials and prosecution took forever to process due to the sheer number of people involved. There was political favoring going on even back then. People were just so horribly desperate.
The main characters are the Grayson family, Mac, the father and patriarch, farmer, father of Myra, Aden and Cabe, husband of Ilea. And their neighboring landowner, Jack Waylon. Mac has never cared for Jack due to some minor infractions concerning infringement of their property. And there are also some major personal infractions, that come to light.
Mac is a large man, and a hard working provider. He is a man who is loving and kind, but not someone you want as your adversary. His stature, words and actions speak volumes in getting his point across. He’s a smart, respected man in his own right, and the family always turns to him for advice and support. He is not however, in the best of health.
Mac’s wife, Ilea, suffers from what we know now as Alzheimer’s and depression and has been in a mental hospital in another town. The family is losing their connectedness to her and in the story, fond and sad memories are recalled by Mac and the boys’ reflections which provides the reader with a background of her life and her declining mental state.
Cabe and Aden, are two brothers, each with different personalities and character. They were really not as strong a presence in the story as they possibly could have been. Given that they had not been schooled much and lived a solitary family farm life, anything outside of their immediate world would be considered an adventure; one that they were not comfortable or familiar with, so there’s that. They do their very best on keeping the family together and their farm running, but the money and food and supplies is constantly running out; the crops are dying, the boll weevils are decimating the cotton. If it’s not one thing, it’s another, the latest of which a lumber mill accident renders Mac with permanent injuries that are totally unrecoverable. Each family member is trying to find their own sense of direction and sense of self and so find themselves in some unfavorable situations either by leaving home (Arden and Cabe) or by staying home (Myra) and Mac, fighting for his life, home and property.
Together, the family is a solid team; looking after each other’s backs and well being. Until one by one, over time and differing situations, each takes off on a different track and they then lose touch with each other. Decisions need to be made back at the homestead and it’s all on Myra. There is no more money. There is no more food. Circumstances are becoming quite dire.
Myra, who was brought into the Grayson family at the age of 3, is their saving grace and especially with the absence of Ilea. As Myra grows up, she steps in and is able to handle more of the female (and some male) responsibilities around the homestead; cooking, farm chores, sewing, and now takes care of the disabled Mac. Her position at the home is the heaviest, in my opinion. She often had to make do with what little they have, a magician of sorts, to use old cloth and make it into something yet still useable. To get small supplies of food yet be able to make a meal to feed one ailing father, two strong, hard working men, and herself. She is resourceful and successful for a while at least, but when their situation just keeps getting worse, the best of any of us can succumb to is someone throwing out a proverbial life raft. She takes it. She has no choice. She is destitute, homeless and desperate.
Jack is rather a Jekyll and Hyde individual; cunning , charming, criminal, respected farmer; handsome, a farmer with lots of land, animals, outdoor and housekeeper help, and a very nice house with a barn and outbuildings. But when there is a threat towards any of these, the bad in him comes out. Add alot of good ol whiskey to the mix and he’s out of control. Don’t be fooled by this character!
This is a very well written and researched historical story of the hard life and difficult times endured by this family and their perseverance and determination to survive beyond all the different setbacks and slights they’ve endured. I enjoyed reading it and got a better understanding of the struggles of these people in those difficult times. The characters were a good mixture and threading their unique stories and personalities together made this a satisfying read. The cover graphics are appropriately old timey in nature.
At the beginning of the book, there was a lot of “musing” by Myra and some of it was lengthy and redundant. Once I got past that though, I felt the story moved on at a good pace that held my interest to the end. If you happen to find yourself struggling or slowing up at the beginning part, just keep on, as it does pick up and gets rolling and keeps on going!
**My thanks to the author, Courtney Allen, for so kindly providing me with a copy of his book in return for my fair and honest review. **
This story also reveals how banks and the legal and policing systems worked during that time period; you’d get a visit by the solicitor if you were late with your mortgage payments on your land and due for foreclosure. There was cheating and scheming by others to benefit from your loss at any cost even if it meant criminal behavior on their end. Criminal trials and prosecution took forever to process due to the sheer number of people involved. There was political favoring going on even back then. People were just so horribly desperate.
The main characters are the Grayson family, Mac, the father and patriarch, farmer, father of Myra, Aden and Cabe, husband of Ilea. And their neighboring landowner, Jack Waylon. Mac has never cared for Jack due to some minor infractions concerning infringement of their property. And there are also some major personal infractions, that come to light.
Mac is a large man, and a hard working provider. He is a man who is loving and kind, but not someone you want as your adversary. His stature, words and actions speak volumes in getting his point across. He’s a smart, respected man in his own right, and the family always turns to him for advice and support. He is not however, in the best of health.
Mac’s wife, Ilea, suffers from what we know now as Alzheimer’s and depression and has been in a mental hospital in another town. The family is losing their connectedness to her and in the story, fond and sad memories are recalled by Mac and the boys’ reflections which provides the reader with a background of her life and her declining mental state.
Cabe and Aden, are two brothers, each with different personalities and character. They were really not as strong a presence in the story as they possibly could have been. Given that they had not been schooled much and lived a solitary family farm life, anything outside of their immediate world would be considered an adventure; one that they were not comfortable or familiar with, so there’s that. They do their very best on keeping the family together and their farm running, but the money and food and supplies is constantly running out; the crops are dying, the boll weevils are decimating the cotton. If it’s not one thing, it’s another, the latest of which a lumber mill accident renders Mac with permanent injuries that are totally unrecoverable. Each family member is trying to find their own sense of direction and sense of self and so find themselves in some unfavorable situations either by leaving home (Arden and Cabe) or by staying home (Myra) and Mac, fighting for his life, home and property.
Together, the family is a solid team; looking after each other’s backs and well being. Until one by one, over time and differing situations, each takes off on a different track and they then lose touch with each other. Decisions need to be made back at the homestead and it’s all on Myra. There is no more money. There is no more food. Circumstances are becoming quite dire.
Myra, who was brought into the Grayson family at the age of 3, is their saving grace and especially with the absence of Ilea. As Myra grows up, she steps in and is able to handle more of the female (and some male) responsibilities around the homestead; cooking, farm chores, sewing, and now takes care of the disabled Mac. Her position at the home is the heaviest, in my opinion. She often had to make do with what little they have, a magician of sorts, to use old cloth and make it into something yet still useable. To get small supplies of food yet be able to make a meal to feed one ailing father, two strong, hard working men, and herself. She is resourceful and successful for a while at least, but when their situation just keeps getting worse, the best of any of us can succumb to is someone throwing out a proverbial life raft. She takes it. She has no choice. She is destitute, homeless and desperate.
Jack is rather a Jekyll and Hyde individual; cunning , charming, criminal, respected farmer; handsome, a farmer with lots of land, animals, outdoor and housekeeper help, and a very nice house with a barn and outbuildings. But when there is a threat towards any of these, the bad in him comes out. Add alot of good ol whiskey to the mix and he’s out of control. Don’t be fooled by this character!
This is a very well written and researched historical story of the hard life and difficult times endured by this family and their perseverance and determination to survive beyond all the different setbacks and slights they’ve endured. I enjoyed reading it and got a better understanding of the struggles of these people in those difficult times. The characters were a good mixture and threading their unique stories and personalities together made this a satisfying read. The cover graphics are appropriately old timey in nature.
At the beginning of the book, there was a lot of “musing” by Myra and some of it was lengthy and redundant. Once I got past that though, I felt the story moved on at a good pace that held my interest to the end. If you happen to find yourself struggling or slowing up at the beginning part, just keep on, as it does pick up and gets rolling and keeps on going!
**My thanks to the author, Courtney Allen, for so kindly providing me with a copy of his book in return for my fair and honest review. **
March 18, 2018
There is something very compelling about Courtney Allen's writing. The reader becomes immersed in the setting, in the characters lives, and it is impossible to stop reading. To me this is the best possible kind of historical fiction because you are learning so much about a particular time period and place but you are so caught up in the drama of the characters' lives that it does not feel like learning. Think Downton Abbey but rural Georgia. :)
This book covers the lives of some rural farmers in Georgia during the depression and a drought. The drama springs from some of the actions taken by characters who are driven by greed or fear (sometimes just bad luck) and how they cope. While it might seem like a depressing, dry (no pun intended) read, it is not. There is a lot of love, hope, resilience, and joy showcased along with the despair and fear.
I thoroughly enjoyed this (as I have every book by Courtney Allen) and especially loved that it tied into Down From The Mountain at the very end. Readers who enjoyed Down From The Mountain must read this one!
This book covers the lives of some rural farmers in Georgia during the depression and a drought. The drama springs from some of the actions taken by characters who are driven by greed or fear (sometimes just bad luck) and how they cope. While it might seem like a depressing, dry (no pun intended) read, it is not. There is a lot of love, hope, resilience, and joy showcased along with the despair and fear.
I thoroughly enjoyed this (as I have every book by Courtney Allen) and especially loved that it tied into Down From The Mountain at the very end. Readers who enjoyed Down From The Mountain must read this one!
February 27, 2018
In this depression era story. The Grayson family lived in the South Georgia county of Lee. They were extremely poor. Mac the father had a load of lumber fell on him at the lumber yard which was suspicious.
All they had was their land, but no money to make the payments nor money for seed.
After Cade and Aden left the farm little sister Myra stepped up the plate.... joining forces with neighbor Jack Waylon to give him needed water for his crops and cattle. In return he agreed to make the property payments.
The characters acted on impulse, made some bad choices, all the while seeking truth and goodness.
I loved the fast pace of this book.
This is the best book that the author has written.
I received this book as a gift from the author for my honest review.
All they had was their land, but no money to make the payments nor money for seed.
After Cade and Aden left the farm little sister Myra stepped up the plate.... joining forces with neighbor Jack Waylon to give him needed water for his crops and cattle. In return he agreed to make the property payments.
The characters acted on impulse, made some bad choices, all the while seeking truth and goodness.
I loved the fast pace of this book.
This is the best book that the author has written.
I received this book as a gift from the author for my honest review.
March 3, 2018
Great Historical Fiction
It is when I read a book like this that I wish I could write better reviews. It was fantastic. Great characters, I can easily picture in my mind the characters, places and things in this book. I felt I learned a lot about what it was like to live during the depression. A must read
It is when I read a book like this that I wish I could write better reviews. It was fantastic. Great characters, I can easily picture in my mind the characters, places and things in this book. I felt I learned a lot about what it was like to live during the depression. A must read
April 14, 2018
The author provided me with a free copy of this book for me to read and review.
This is a well-researched story that really evokes the time period about which it was written. Everything screams Great Depression to me, from the descriptive settings to the language and behaviors of the characters. I truly felt for the Grayson family, as it seemed nothing good ever came to them, but I am glad that the book didn't look at the Great Depression with rose-colored glasses.
This was an enjoyable read and I believe many historical fiction fans would love it.
This is a well-researched story that really evokes the time period about which it was written. Everything screams Great Depression to me, from the descriptive settings to the language and behaviors of the characters. I truly felt for the Grayson family, as it seemed nothing good ever came to them, but I am glad that the book didn't look at the Great Depression with rose-colored glasses.
This was an enjoyable read and I believe many historical fiction fans would love it.
June 29, 2018
This well written Depression Era story certainly was an eye-opener! Mr Allen has a way with words and I found myself struggling right along with the Grayson family as they lived through drought, foreclosure, poverty, and a failing economy. The strong female character, Myra, was young but determined as she never gave up on her family and a difficult situation. The story began slowly which worked for me as I became intimately acquainted with each character and their hardships. The pace then quickened and I was in for many surprises which lead to a satisfying conclusion. Well done Mr. Allen and thank you for this complimentary copy.
March 31, 2018
I did not win this book on Goodreads First Reads. This book was sent to me by the author, Courtney Allen, to read and give an honest review. I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. The characters were well written and very engaging. The setting and story line was descriptive to the point of being able to picture everything that I was reading in my head. This book was set during the Depression Era and told of families with nothing or next to it and others who were doing very well. The main story line consists of Myra, a teenager who was informally adopted by the Graysons after her mother died and her father became so sick that he could no longer take care of her, the Graysons who were a family of four before taking on Myra. The story line, also, consists of the Grayson's neighbor, Jack Waylon, who lived on the property on the hill above them.
I have, also, read Courtney Allen's other two books, "Down From The Mountain" which was set before the Depression that I won on Goodreads and "Orange Moon" which was set in more modern-ish day that Courtney sent me to read and review. Out of all three of the books, I have to say that this book, "Lee County Elegy" and "Down From The Mountain" were more to my liking as I really like historical fiction (there's a tie-in to "Down From The Mountain" in "Lee County Elegy"), but "Orange Moon" was good in it's own right. If you get the chance, I highly recommend any one of Courtney Allen's books.
I have, also, read Courtney Allen's other two books, "Down From The Mountain" which was set before the Depression that I won on Goodreads and "Orange Moon" which was set in more modern-ish day that Courtney sent me to read and review. Out of all three of the books, I have to say that this book, "Lee County Elegy" and "Down From The Mountain" were more to my liking as I really like historical fiction (there's a tie-in to "Down From The Mountain" in "Lee County Elegy"), but "Orange Moon" was good in it's own right. If you get the chance, I highly recommend any one of Courtney Allen's books.
March 5, 2018
I keep telling people I do not like to read historical fiction, but this author is an exception! I have read all of his books, and have enjoyed them all. I have recently read other books based in the same time period, and the events in this book are very believable. The relationships are true to form. The main character, Myra, is left alone to fend for herself with no means of support, and is able to arrange a marriage much to her advantage. Although not the ideal relationship, she does what she must to survive. There may be more catastrophe for one family than most may had experienced, but these happenings seem based in truth, so are believable.
I enjoyed this book, and like his first book, Down from the Mountain, read it in a relatively short time. (SPOILER ALERT! STOP READING NOW IF YOU DO NOT WANT TO KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT THE END OF THE BOOK!!)
I really enjoyed the ending which basically wrapped up any existing questions as to what would happen to the characters. I hate stories which leave you hanging.
I enjoyed this book, and like his first book, Down from the Mountain, read it in a relatively short time. (SPOILER ALERT! STOP READING NOW IF YOU DO NOT WANT TO KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT THE END OF THE BOOK!!)
I really enjoyed the ending which basically wrapped up any existing questions as to what would happen to the characters. I hate stories which leave you hanging.
March 9, 2018
A beautiful historical novel with richly developed characters who depict life in the south during the depression.
The Grayson family lives on a farm in rural Georgia and are threatened with foreclosure. Mac lives with his two sons and daughter Myra, struggling to make ends meet. When he suffers a paralyzing accident and is bedridden, Myra and her brothers ,Cade and Arden, do everything they can to keep their land from being taken . Both brothers have to leave their home and Myra is left alone to care for her father and faces insurmountable difficulties. She makes a hard decision that will affect the rest of her life in order to survive
I received this book as a gift from the author and loved reading it as much as his other books. I felt Myra’s everyday struggles and admired her strength and perseverance during extremely difficult situations. Highly recommended!!!
The Grayson family lives on a farm in rural Georgia and are threatened with foreclosure. Mac lives with his two sons and daughter Myra, struggling to make ends meet. When he suffers a paralyzing accident and is bedridden, Myra and her brothers ,Cade and Arden, do everything they can to keep their land from being taken . Both brothers have to leave their home and Myra is left alone to care for her father and faces insurmountable difficulties. She makes a hard decision that will affect the rest of her life in order to survive
I received this book as a gift from the author and loved reading it as much as his other books. I felt Myra’s everyday struggles and admired her strength and perseverance during extremely difficult situations. Highly recommended!!!
February 16, 2018
Setting is the Depression and the character's are a father and his children but this is not your typical story as there is someone missing in the picture as a whole. The ups and downs of life then and how the children Adults in this story overcome so much but yet life turns out ok better than ok and I will leave it at that. A MUST READ for those who like DEPRESSION ERA stories.
March 16, 2018
This novel follows a family during the years of the Great Depression in rural Georgia. It has "The Grapes of Wrath" vibes, but I found the characters much more endearing and the drama unfolding around the Grayson family absolutely riveting. Once again, another wonderful work of historical fiction by this author.
March 27, 2018
This book is an upcoming book club choice and thanks to the author, Courtney Allen I was able to read it before I read our April choice!
Set during the Great Depression, in the Rural South Georgia landscape. Drought and insects have ruined the cotton crop and Mac Grayson’s family is suffering deeply; no money, no food and a neighbor that Mac refuses to validate as a human.
Mac’s three children have noted nothing but kindness in their neighbor; but Mac seems him only through disdain. What the children do not know is Mac’s reasons for disdain. The children know that their mother, Ila Mae lost her mind and was presently being cared for at a State run mental institution three days hard ride away in an uncomfortable farm wagon hauled by mules. They know that the transformation came about after the death of their eldest child, who simply collapsed in the cotton field. With each passing day, Ila Mae slipped further into herself, leaving a vacancy in her family’s lives, until the only recourse was having her institutionalized.
The children also knew that the youngest child, their sister Myra, was informally adopted by Mac at the age of three. The secret that Mac had hidden for going on two decades was that the middle son, Cade, was not his biological child; he was the offspring of the neighbor, Jack Waylon, who had raped Ila Mae when she was out collecting wildflowers. There were two things that Mac remained grateful for despite the circumstances; his son Cade who he loved equally as he loved his other children and the fact that Ila Mae’s mind had been too far gone for her to realize what had happened to her.
With Ila Mae’s health, the weather, the insects and the stock market crash; Mac & his children has suffered greatly, but that suffering would be compounded when an accident at a nearby lumberyard would leave Mac nearly paralyzed. If it appears that the Grayson family has hit bottom and their luck is about to change; appearances can be deceiving!
Historically accurate portrayal of life across America during the Great Depression! There are many parallels between this novel and true life experience of those who suffered through the era. Heart warming and heart breaking at the same time; Courtney Allen has become my favorite historical fiction author!
Thank you for this great novel! I enjoyed it from beginning to end!
Set during the Great Depression, in the Rural South Georgia landscape. Drought and insects have ruined the cotton crop and Mac Grayson’s family is suffering deeply; no money, no food and a neighbor that Mac refuses to validate as a human.
Mac’s three children have noted nothing but kindness in their neighbor; but Mac seems him only through disdain. What the children do not know is Mac’s reasons for disdain. The children know that their mother, Ila Mae lost her mind and was presently being cared for at a State run mental institution three days hard ride away in an uncomfortable farm wagon hauled by mules. They know that the transformation came about after the death of their eldest child, who simply collapsed in the cotton field. With each passing day, Ila Mae slipped further into herself, leaving a vacancy in her family’s lives, until the only recourse was having her institutionalized.
The children also knew that the youngest child, their sister Myra, was informally adopted by Mac at the age of three. The secret that Mac had hidden for going on two decades was that the middle son, Cade, was not his biological child; he was the offspring of the neighbor, Jack Waylon, who had raped Ila Mae when she was out collecting wildflowers. There were two things that Mac remained grateful for despite the circumstances; his son Cade who he loved equally as he loved his other children and the fact that Ila Mae’s mind had been too far gone for her to realize what had happened to her.
With Ila Mae’s health, the weather, the insects and the stock market crash; Mac & his children has suffered greatly, but that suffering would be compounded when an accident at a nearby lumberyard would leave Mac nearly paralyzed. If it appears that the Grayson family has hit bottom and their luck is about to change; appearances can be deceiving!
Historically accurate portrayal of life across America during the Great Depression! There are many parallels between this novel and true life experience of those who suffered through the era. Heart warming and heart breaking at the same time; Courtney Allen has become my favorite historical fiction author!
Thank you for this great novel! I enjoyed it from beginning to end!
March 8, 2018
The author offered me a free copy of this book.
The storyline was very good and kept me mesmerized.
The problem is the author needs an editor if he doesn’t have one, or a better one if he does. He was talking about the waist on a person’s body but spelled it “waste” or the gait, as in a person’s stride, but spelled it “gate”. There were other typos and grammatically incorrect sentences. It caused distraction.
The other issue is, there are portions of the book that are very repetitive, to the point of deja vu. For instance, Myra is opening a box and he describes the contents, then later she is opening the box again and he describes all the contents again in exactly the same way as the first time.
I would give the book 5 stars, but these things were too distracting for me to fully enjoy the storyline.
The storyline was very good and kept me mesmerized.
The problem is the author needs an editor if he doesn’t have one, or a better one if he does. He was talking about the waist on a person’s body but spelled it “waste” or the gait, as in a person’s stride, but spelled it “gate”. There were other typos and grammatically incorrect sentences. It caused distraction.
The other issue is, there are portions of the book that are very repetitive, to the point of deja vu. For instance, Myra is opening a box and he describes the contents, then later she is opening the box again and he describes all the contents again in exactly the same way as the first time.
I would give the book 5 stars, but these things were too distracting for me to fully enjoy the storyline.
February 24, 2018
This was a very enjoyable book to read. I loved everything about it. The characters were so well written, I felt I was right there with them. There were parts that were sad, yet there was a lot of hope too. If you haven't read this author before, do yourself a favor and read his books. Wonderful!
I received a copy of this book from the author, thank you so much!
I received a copy of this book from the author, thank you so much!
April 30, 2018
I received this book from the author, with a promise of an honest review.
Lee County Elegy is a detailed account of one family's struggles to overcome poverty in the rural South during the Depression Era. Maclin Grayson owns land that has been in his family for several generations. He grows cotton, and the family has been able to eke out a decent living until a combination of a multi-year drought, a weevil infestation, and the Great Depression leave them on the brink of bankruptcy. A series of events, including a devastating injury to Maclin, the death of his wife (who has been hospitalized with dementia for many years), an unscrupulous banker who desires the property, and a corrupt legal system, all conspire to tear the family apart, with the two Grayson sons leaving home, and Myra, Mac's adopted daughter, left to manage the farm on her own. It's a sweeping saga of the crushing effects of the Depression on average people as they struggle to survive until better times.
As is typical of Courtney Allen's writing, his love of his home state of Georgia is abundantly clear when he writes about the land. His descriptions paint beautiful pictures of the farms, landscapes, and skies, and give his readers a genuine feel for the setting. I can easily put myself into the scene, and be certain that I know exactly how it looks, feels, and smells. At these times, his prose is beautiful.
Character development in this book is quite strong, for those characters who are depicted throughout. Myra is strong, intelligent, clever, and diligent. She does everything necessary to preserve her family's land, including marrying the neighboring landowner, Jack Waylon. What she doesn't know is Jack's negative effects on her family, both in the distant past and in a recent tragedy. Waylon is also well developed, as a deeply flawed man, yet with some redeeming qualities. I wish that Myra's brothers, Arden and Cade, had played a more significant part in the story. It seemed as though the author couldn't quite figure out what to do with them, and so pushed them aside, away from the action, for a substantial part of the main plot.
Where the book falls a bit flat for me is in the dialogue, which often seems stiff, and in the expression of thoughts and feelings of the characters. Too often, it seems like fewer words would convey the idea better, and seem less cumbersome. As an example, Myra's brother Arden, after traveling to bring his mother back home, only to find she had died before he got there, is described as being "saddened and dejected." To make the point, I would suggest that this is repetitive and redundant.
There were two additional problems for me. One was the pace of the story. I found it to be fairly slow. That is probably due in part to my observations in the above paragraph, and in part to my Mid-Atlantic view of what is likely a typically Southern pace. The other problem is one which I understand has been rectified, that being numerous examples of incorrect word usage. I received a first edition of the book, and Mr. Allen has told me that these errors were corrected in the subsequent edition. I do hope that the corrections included the elimination of some words and phrases in the last chapter that many might find racially offensive. While it accurately depicts the language commonly used at that time, I was stunned to find these expressions in a book written today, especially since the passage in which they occurred was unnecessary to the plot, and did nothing to further the story in any way.
Overall, I would say that Lee County Elegy is a genuine depiction of its times, and accurately reflects the desperation of much of the nation during the Depression. It also celebrates the ability of people to overcome their circumstances and not only survive, but thrive.
I give it 3.5 stars (because of the issues mentioned), rounded up to 4
Lee County Elegy is a detailed account of one family's struggles to overcome poverty in the rural South during the Depression Era. Maclin Grayson owns land that has been in his family for several generations. He grows cotton, and the family has been able to eke out a decent living until a combination of a multi-year drought, a weevil infestation, and the Great Depression leave them on the brink of bankruptcy. A series of events, including a devastating injury to Maclin, the death of his wife (who has been hospitalized with dementia for many years), an unscrupulous banker who desires the property, and a corrupt legal system, all conspire to tear the family apart, with the two Grayson sons leaving home, and Myra, Mac's adopted daughter, left to manage the farm on her own. It's a sweeping saga of the crushing effects of the Depression on average people as they struggle to survive until better times.
As is typical of Courtney Allen's writing, his love of his home state of Georgia is abundantly clear when he writes about the land. His descriptions paint beautiful pictures of the farms, landscapes, and skies, and give his readers a genuine feel for the setting. I can easily put myself into the scene, and be certain that I know exactly how it looks, feels, and smells. At these times, his prose is beautiful.
Character development in this book is quite strong, for those characters who are depicted throughout. Myra is strong, intelligent, clever, and diligent. She does everything necessary to preserve her family's land, including marrying the neighboring landowner, Jack Waylon. What she doesn't know is Jack's negative effects on her family, both in the distant past and in a recent tragedy. Waylon is also well developed, as a deeply flawed man, yet with some redeeming qualities. I wish that Myra's brothers, Arden and Cade, had played a more significant part in the story. It seemed as though the author couldn't quite figure out what to do with them, and so pushed them aside, away from the action, for a substantial part of the main plot.
Where the book falls a bit flat for me is in the dialogue, which often seems stiff, and in the expression of thoughts and feelings of the characters. Too often, it seems like fewer words would convey the idea better, and seem less cumbersome. As an example, Myra's brother Arden, after traveling to bring his mother back home, only to find she had died before he got there, is described as being "saddened and dejected." To make the point, I would suggest that this is repetitive and redundant.
There were two additional problems for me. One was the pace of the story. I found it to be fairly slow. That is probably due in part to my observations in the above paragraph, and in part to my Mid-Atlantic view of what is likely a typically Southern pace. The other problem is one which I understand has been rectified, that being numerous examples of incorrect word usage. I received a first edition of the book, and Mr. Allen has told me that these errors were corrected in the subsequent edition. I do hope that the corrections included the elimination of some words and phrases in the last chapter that many might find racially offensive. While it accurately depicts the language commonly used at that time, I was stunned to find these expressions in a book written today, especially since the passage in which they occurred was unnecessary to the plot, and did nothing to further the story in any way.
Overall, I would say that Lee County Elegy is a genuine depiction of its times, and accurately reflects the desperation of much of the nation during the Depression. It also celebrates the ability of people to overcome their circumstances and not only survive, but thrive.
I give it 3.5 stars (because of the issues mentioned), rounded up to 4
January 22, 2019
In this beautifully detailed historical novel about the depression era and the hard times that fell on everyone, we meet Myra Grayson who is the central character in the story. Maclin and Ila Mae Grayson adopted Myra when she was just 3 years old. She had two older brothers, Arden and Cade. Times were tough. Ila Mae was long ago institutionalized in another town for dementia and Myra, a young teen, was left to care for Maclin who had been in a horrible “accident” and left with permanent disabilities. She had the responsibility of caring for their home, preparing meals, and doing some of the farm work. When the depression hit, things went downhill quickly. Arden left to bring Ila Mae back home when the institution could no longer take care of her financially. Cade took off after an unfortunate incident and left Myra to fend for herself and Maclin.
Jack Waylon, their neighbor, had his eye on their land because of the natural supply of water he wanted access to for his farm. There was a long history of conflict between Maclin and Jack and Maclin refused the access and threatened Jack if he stepped foot on his land. This set the stage for the rest of the story.
I found the characters to be well developed and believable. Myra showed an incredible amount of resilience and such a soft side. At times, I felt if I could reach in and give her a hug or a pat on the back, her life would have been easier, if only for a moment. Maclin often seemed gruff but considering his situation, it made his character come to life. I felt Arden and Cade got a lot of attention in the beginning, but then, for the most part, seemed to drop out of the story, being resurrected now and again. Jack Waylon had a strong Jekyll and Hyde persona. He was a character I loved to hate, one I could have pulled out of the book and smacked around.
I had a difficult time getting into the story, unusual for one of Courtney Allen’s books. It started off slowly with a great deal of description and a story that seemed to be going nowhere. I was concerned about whether the story would ever pique my interest. As the storyline began to take precedence, I became intrigued and couldn’t put Lee County Elegy down.
As always, the author researched the era and the locale with great attention to detail. Though life was difficult in the cities, it was much harder felt in the rural areas. These contrasts were well documented in the story.
Because I almost lost interest before the story reeled me in, I am giving this book four stars. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction.
Disclaimer
I was given a copy of Lee County Elegy by the author in exchange for my honest review.
I did not receive any monetary compensation for this review.
Jack Waylon, their neighbor, had his eye on their land because of the natural supply of water he wanted access to for his farm. There was a long history of conflict between Maclin and Jack and Maclin refused the access and threatened Jack if he stepped foot on his land. This set the stage for the rest of the story.
I found the characters to be well developed and believable. Myra showed an incredible amount of resilience and such a soft side. At times, I felt if I could reach in and give her a hug or a pat on the back, her life would have been easier, if only for a moment. Maclin often seemed gruff but considering his situation, it made his character come to life. I felt Arden and Cade got a lot of attention in the beginning, but then, for the most part, seemed to drop out of the story, being resurrected now and again. Jack Waylon had a strong Jekyll and Hyde persona. He was a character I loved to hate, one I could have pulled out of the book and smacked around.
I had a difficult time getting into the story, unusual for one of Courtney Allen’s books. It started off slowly with a great deal of description and a story that seemed to be going nowhere. I was concerned about whether the story would ever pique my interest. As the storyline began to take precedence, I became intrigued and couldn’t put Lee County Elegy down.
As always, the author researched the era and the locale with great attention to detail. Though life was difficult in the cities, it was much harder felt in the rural areas. These contrasts were well documented in the story.
Because I almost lost interest before the story reeled me in, I am giving this book four stars. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction.
Disclaimer
I was given a copy of Lee County Elegy by the author in exchange for my honest review.
I did not receive any monetary compensation for this review.
May 3, 2018
I received this book from the author as an advance read. I so wanted to give it 5 stars but editing force me to go with 4.5 stars. It is the third book I have read by this author and was happy to see he returned to the historical fiction of his first book. The story centers on the Grayson family who are rural farmers in Georgia when the depression hits. Anything bad that can happen does; failed crops, illness, drought, tornadoes, and of course the lack of jobs, food, money and an exodus from the rural areas to the city. The central character Myra was taken in by the Graysons when she was 3 years old as her parents were ill (fatally) from the effects of toxic wastes from the textile mill they worked in. The ultimate sacrifice of her parents was to place their children in what they hoped would be loving homes. While the Graysons prove to be an excellent family, Mrs Grayson already showed signs of what is now known as early onset Alzeihmers. For her safety she was eventually placed in a long term care medical facility. Myra and her 2 brothers are raised by Mr Grayson. All is well until the drought, crop destroying insects, and the depression hits. The Grayson’s neighbor Jack Waylon wants access to the water on their land for his cattle. This could mean income for the Grayson's but Mr Grayson refuses as he is aware of a horrific act against his family by Mr Waylon. A workplace “accident” then results in Mr Grayson’s total inability to walk and work. The story centers on Myra and her brothers’ attempt to survive with no means of income or assistance, and the dark forces around them who wish to see them fail.
Being from New England, the differences as well as similarities of the depression on the southern rural areas and cities is interesting. The author obviously did a lot of research. I like that the author tied in the evolving awareness of industrial waste effects, mental illness, racial inequality, women’s issues and a justice system badly in need of help. The book explores what can happen when people are pushed to their limits and are unable to adapt. Trying to survive can result in making or breaking the norms as we know them.
The 4.5 stars are because of the editing. This was not only because of a number of mispelled words or sentence structure. The characters’ emotions, thoughts, and events were repeated more than a few times and took up the first 3/4’s of the book. The summary of the Grayson family’s lives then seemed rushed in the final chapters.
However, I do not hesitate in recommending this author.
Being from New England, the differences as well as similarities of the depression on the southern rural areas and cities is interesting. The author obviously did a lot of research. I like that the author tied in the evolving awareness of industrial waste effects, mental illness, racial inequality, women’s issues and a justice system badly in need of help. The book explores what can happen when people are pushed to their limits and are unable to adapt. Trying to survive can result in making or breaking the norms as we know them.
The 4.5 stars are because of the editing. This was not only because of a number of mispelled words or sentence structure. The characters’ emotions, thoughts, and events were repeated more than a few times and took up the first 3/4’s of the book. The summary of the Grayson family’s lives then seemed rushed in the final chapters.
However, I do not hesitate in recommending this author.
April 30, 2018
This book takes place during the Depression, down in Georgia ( Lee County) it is about the Grayson family’s struggles, when the patriarch of the family, Mac, is hurt in a lumberyard accident. Times are tough & hard for this family, pretty much during the whole book, but the hardships of living through this period of time is masterly recreated in this story. The characters each take on different roles in order to keep afloat, plus there’s fighting with nearby landowners which really get on Mac’s nerves. This book shows how family sticks together during the good & bad times, mainly bad since this not the best of times. While Mac is injured, he must still deal with people out to hurt his family & this is the time that those in the family shine through to keep living, & those not as willing to help, find their place & worth within the family to redeem themselves. It’s a story of hope, redemption & plain old hard living agonies of living during this hard time in history. I don’t want to give too much away & spoil anything for other readers
At times I felt I was one of the family because the author has a way of making you know these people, the family, & you just feel included & rooting for them especially during all their sorrows & hardships. Wanting to help them out, & when finished with the book, there was sort of an emptiness for me which wanted me to continue being part of the Grayson family. I wanted even more, but there really was quite enough in this story & although I missed this family, I was happy to be back in today’s realities, where many of us think we have it hard. Nowhere near as hard as what this family had to go through in order to survive during this historical time period
I’d recommend this book to those that like somewhat historical times reads, those who may also have lived during the Depression would really find this interesting & bring back memories for them & their lives during this time. Also to anyone who enjoys a great novel & loves to read
I found out what living during the Depression was like through the telling of the Grayson family & the great need to have family support during this difficult time. It was an interesting read, plus I learned a few things about that time period & the difficulties involved, plus having the head of house injured impacted upon all the other family members & picking up the slack....& then some. Enjoyable story!
Many thanks to author Courtney Allen for a wonderfully written story & for giving me a copy of his book of which I wrote an honest review
At times I felt I was one of the family because the author has a way of making you know these people, the family, & you just feel included & rooting for them especially during all their sorrows & hardships. Wanting to help them out, & when finished with the book, there was sort of an emptiness for me which wanted me to continue being part of the Grayson family. I wanted even more, but there really was quite enough in this story & although I missed this family, I was happy to be back in today’s realities, where many of us think we have it hard. Nowhere near as hard as what this family had to go through in order to survive during this historical time period
I’d recommend this book to those that like somewhat historical times reads, those who may also have lived during the Depression would really find this interesting & bring back memories for them & their lives during this time. Also to anyone who enjoys a great novel & loves to read
I found out what living during the Depression was like through the telling of the Grayson family & the great need to have family support during this difficult time. It was an interesting read, plus I learned a few things about that time period & the difficulties involved, plus having the head of house injured impacted upon all the other family members & picking up the slack....& then some. Enjoyable story!
Many thanks to author Courtney Allen for a wonderfully written story & for giving me a copy of his book of which I wrote an honest review
July 11, 2018
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
"Lee County Elegy" is depression-era fiction. That period of time is interesting to me because my mother lived through it, and I think the Great Depression had a profound lasting impression on the people that went through it. As the book says on p. 67, "Life's trying challenges change people. Difficulty and heartache can change people, some for the good and some not so much. When one walks through life they change the world. However as they go, life changes them too."
The book primarily follows the trials of one family, the Graysons. In particular, the book focuses on the adopted daughter, Myra. As always, Mr. Allen's strength lies in his character development.
Here are a few quotations relating to those in the family:
Mac, the father: "Yet, he eventually proved to be a good one having been raised himself they said under the premise of honesty and goodwill, with a heart cast of the purest gold. (p. 11) "He reached out with his hand to touch his Bible on the bedside table, and he prayed the world could not subvert his faith that his Savior was with him that very moment." (p. 54)
Myra, the youngest daughter, adopted at an early age: " 'We'll have to think, use our heads for once. Improvise and adapt. Overcome what we must!' she said, turning and crossing her arms with a surprising burst of gumption. She was quickly growing up, her brothers well-knew. Given to harsh consequences, she could be valuable in the most testing of times they were growing to recognize." (p. 27)
Arden, the oldest son: "However aged and road-weary, regardless of the work done in them, they had a sturdy character much like Arden. Well-made and reliable." (p. 93)
Cade, the middle child, the one who seems not quite to fit in with the rest of the family: "She was surprised by this unusual display of confidence from Cade suddenly appearing from some hidden place she wasn't aware existed. She noticed the change in his attitude whenever Arden wasn't on the farm."
Each member of the Grayson family will be sorely tested during the course of the narrative. Some will shine; others will be tarnished.
"Lee County Elegy" is depression-era fiction. That period of time is interesting to me because my mother lived through it, and I think the Great Depression had a profound lasting impression on the people that went through it. As the book says on p. 67, "Life's trying challenges change people. Difficulty and heartache can change people, some for the good and some not so much. When one walks through life they change the world. However as they go, life changes them too."
The book primarily follows the trials of one family, the Graysons. In particular, the book focuses on the adopted daughter, Myra. As always, Mr. Allen's strength lies in his character development.
Here are a few quotations relating to those in the family:
Mac, the father: "Yet, he eventually proved to be a good one having been raised himself they said under the premise of honesty and goodwill, with a heart cast of the purest gold. (p. 11) "He reached out with his hand to touch his Bible on the bedside table, and he prayed the world could not subvert his faith that his Savior was with him that very moment." (p. 54)
Myra, the youngest daughter, adopted at an early age: " 'We'll have to think, use our heads for once. Improvise and adapt. Overcome what we must!' she said, turning and crossing her arms with a surprising burst of gumption. She was quickly growing up, her brothers well-knew. Given to harsh consequences, she could be valuable in the most testing of times they were growing to recognize." (p. 27)
Arden, the oldest son: "However aged and road-weary, regardless of the work done in them, they had a sturdy character much like Arden. Well-made and reliable." (p. 93)
Cade, the middle child, the one who seems not quite to fit in with the rest of the family: "She was surprised by this unusual display of confidence from Cade suddenly appearing from some hidden place she wasn't aware existed. She noticed the change in his attitude whenever Arden wasn't on the farm."
Each member of the Grayson family will be sorely tested during the course of the narrative. Some will shine; others will be tarnished.
August 30, 2018
This story just stays in your mind, as you read about everything the Grayson family goes through. I would have to stop reading because of responsibilities, but in the back of my mind I wondered what was going to happen to this family. The Depression was a major time of suffering, and this author is masterful in painting a picture of the time. Families were destitute, hungry, and desperate to do something that would take them away from all the bad things going on. In this family, they already adopted a young girl whose parents had died, so that she would have a home, because relatives couldn't care for her. There were years in which the family went through time after time of disastrous events. The mom of the family suffered from mental illness. The dad was a hard worker, until an evil man "accidentally" made lumber topple onto him, making him paralyzed, an invalid. This was the catalystic event that started the family falling apart. You just wouldn't believe everything that happened after that. Farm disasters, murder, stealing, jail..and yet there's redemption and survival in the midst. It's a suspenseful, very intriguing story that is totally satisfying to read. I highly recommend this book, Lee County Elegy. I look forward to reading more by the author, Courtney Allen.
April 30, 2018
Lee County Elegy was a touching fictional portrayal of Depression-era rural Georgia. It was a story of hardship, love, loss and the perseverance of the human spirit in the face of extreme adversity. This bleak time in American history brought out the best and worst of human nature. Some dealt with abject poverty with grace and honor, while others resorted to treachery and dishonesty against their fellow man. The Grayson's story was initially pretty depressing but ultimately bittersweet and uplifting.
This book was well written and researched, with impressive attention to detail. Fully developed characters, a terrific storyline and a strong heroine made this a great read. It evoked strong emotions and I sympathized with their terrible circumstances. I really enjoyed Lee County Elegy and would recommend it.
The author provided this free copy at my request and I have voluntarily left this review. This review is my honest opinion.
This book was well written and researched, with impressive attention to detail. Fully developed characters, a terrific storyline and a strong heroine made this a great read. It evoked strong emotions and I sympathized with their terrible circumstances. I really enjoyed Lee County Elegy and would recommend it.
The author provided this free copy at my request and I have voluntarily left this review. This review is my honest opinion.
March 2, 2019
Lee County Elegy by Courtney Allen takes place during the Depression and tells the story of one family's struggle to survive. The novel is well-written and presents an excellent insight into the difficulties faced by Americans during this time period and does so in an historically accurate and effective way. It follows the lives of the members of the Grayson family and presents characters who are well-rounded and believable. The main character, Myra Grayson, who was adopted by the family at the age of three, faces one difficulty and tragedy after another, but manages to get back up each time without complaint or without feeling sorry for herself. She accepts life's challenges and always emerges stronger with each tragic event. This is a novel that demonstrates the power of redemption over hardships, of love over hate, of strength over weakness. While heartbreaking at times, it is a novel that is both educational and uplifting and I highly recommend it.
March 10, 2018
My favorite book by Courtney Lee. I received this book from the author for a non-biased review. I loved this book. This story gives us a glimpse of the life of a farmer facing not only the depression but a drought as well. Myra is the focus of this story. She loses her father and 2 brothers along with her home in a very short time. Her rich neighbor takes her in and takes advantage of her when he realizes she is all alone with no one to help her. This story is more than telling the story of the depression and poverty, it tells the story of bravery, intelligence and shows us that love can concur evil. Myra is able to rise above her dismal life and become a intelligent woman, mother, and sister . This book has many ups and downs as well as twists and turns that help create a great book. I would recommend this book to any on that loves books
April 15, 2018
Lee County Elegy by Courtney Allen is a well written historical novel about a family and their heartbreaking struggles in Atlanta during the depression. The characters are rich and well developed and the story line well constructed. The novel takes you on a roller coaster of emotions and you definitely can feel the pain and suffering that Myra and her brothers experience as well as the hope and joy of simple pleasures. Courtney does a wonderful job of giving vivid detailed descriptions of his characters and the settings so that you you feel as if you are right there with them. He has definitely done his research. The book made me question whether I would have been able to survive similar circumstances. Definitely worth the read!
February 20, 2018
This is Courtney Allen's third book and the best so far. It takes place during depression years. Is about the heartache and desperation during this period of want and need. Is about family and their choices that make things worse in this time. I think what would I do if living in these days. Dont know. It was a horrific time for all. This novel contains murder and attempted murder. Also contains revenge for deeds of the greedy. The action is ongoing as the characters are in our hearts and we cheer for them. You will love this historical fiction that has a bitter and victorious ending. Thanks to Mr. Allen and Goodreads.
February 28, 2018
For those of us who grew up hearing vague stories of the Great Depression, this novel brings to life the hardships endured in the South by so many.
There were moments when, as I read this book, I wanted to cry out, "That's enough--can't something good come to this family?" There were moments when I was reminded that there is good and bad within each of us. And there were moments when I celebrated the beautifully crafted descriptions of the characters, their circumstances, and the beauty of their home, South Georgia.
Courtney Allen's "Lee County Elegy" is, indeed, a story that brings reflection and eventually consolation. Beautifully written, well researched, and a pleasure to read.
There were moments when, as I read this book, I wanted to cry out, "That's enough--can't something good come to this family?" There were moments when I was reminded that there is good and bad within each of us. And there were moments when I celebrated the beautifully crafted descriptions of the characters, their circumstances, and the beauty of their home, South Georgia.
Courtney Allen's "Lee County Elegy" is, indeed, a story that brings reflection and eventually consolation. Beautifully written, well researched, and a pleasure to read.
May 19, 2018
I loved this book by Courtney Allen too. Loved the characters, especially Myra, a young girl of 17 who struggled through the depression of the 1930s with her adopted family. As always, when I am reading books by this author, I feel like I am right there with the characters of the novel. I think what I like best about his books is that the author never writes predictable, formulaic books. I really can't wait for the next book! I read a lot of books and usually give them away or donate them to the library after I am done reading them. However I can't really part with this author's books because I know I will want to read them again!
May 16, 2018
Thank you to Goodreads and Courtney Allen for an honest review of this historical fiction novel comparing poor/wealthy families during the American Depression and its effects on their lives. Myra is given up by her parents to live in another town with another family because they could not keep her, a sad part of our history that happened to many. Her new family is also poor but do their best to make home and love part of their lives but poverty, death, loneliness, and suffering intercede. Myra's life and those of her family, undergo many tragedies. In many ways, this book is very honest about life a hundred years ago in America. An excellent read into the past.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews