Cottonwood Whispers

Calloway Summers #2

by Jennifer Erin Valent

In this sequel to Jennifer’s award-winning debut novel Fireflies in December, Jessilyn Lassiter and her best friend Gemma Teague have survived prejudice and heartache in their lifelong friendship, but the summer of 1936 threatens to tear them apart yet again. Gemma’s job with the wealthy Hadley family leads to a crush on their youngest son. But Jessilyn’s insistence that he’s no good and that no rich white man would ever truly fall for a poor black girl like Gemma puts them at odds. Tragedy strikes when Jessilyn’s cherished neighbor girl is hit by a car and killed. Things get worse when an elderly friend is falsely accused of the crime, and the only way to clear his name is to put her family’s livelihood in jeopardy. For Jessilyn, this is a choice too hard to bear and she wonders where to turn for answers, especially when an angry mob threatens vigilante justice. Jennifer’s third book, Catching Moondrops, releases in Fall 2010.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Christian, Fiction, Historical, Young Adult, Coming Of Age

352 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2009

About the author

Jennifer Erin Valent is the 2007 winner of the Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild's Operation First Novel contest and 2010 Christy Award winner for Fireflies in December. She lives in central Virginia, where she has worked as a nanny for over fifteen years. A lifelong resident of the South, her surroundings help to color the scenes and characters she writes.

www.jennifervalent.com.
http://twitter.com/#!/JenniferEValent
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
https://pinterest.com/jenerin76/

Reviews

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, I just have to say how much I admire the titles of these books.They're so clever. Both the first and second book in this series has presented me with an "aha" moment when I realize the meaning of the title. Each time my heart has been touched with the depth of what they imply. Perfection.

Ok, now that I got that off my chest, I will simply say that I have really enjoyed this series so far. Even though I've lost my patience with the main character many, many times, I still love her and have enjoyed "watching" her grow into a young women in so many ways.

This is one of those books that I highlighted dozens of quotes and thoughts that were note worthy. I especially have a soft spot for Miss. Cleta and her wisdom and love of life that she shares with Jessilyn. I am going to jump right into book three. I can't wait to see how this series ends.

[steph · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this one better than the first which I didn't think was possible. This is a coming of age story for Jessie, Gemmie and Luke and there is so much going on in this book that I am having a hard time pinpointing my favorite moments. The schism between Gemma and Jessie, the unfair treatment of Mr. Poe, the hypocrisy and racial tones of the town when it comes to whites and blacks, the struggle Jessie feels about not having the same type of faith that her parents, Gemma and Mr. Poe have, the wonderfulness of Miss Cleta and how she is such a good person for Jessie to talk to. The first book was on evil, especially how it touched Jessie specifically (the villain in that book was after Jessie and his interactions with her was hard to read at times). In this book, the evil plot line is more on Jessie's family and loved ones, but not specifically at her so it made her a little more removed from the situation and thus easier to read and enjoy. I felt in this one we got a chance to understand more of Jessie's character, insight and her growing maturity (although she does have a tendency to run her mouth off when pissed off still). Also this book set the scene for more wonderful Luke and Jessie moments that made my heart flutter as we realize along with Jessie that Luke is slowly seeing her as the woman she is becoming and much less like the thirteen year old girl he first met four years ago.

"I aint got no plans of goin' nowhere."

"You best not. I got me enough troubles as it is. Last thing I need is you walkin' out on me."

There was a serious look in his eyes, one that I wasn't used to seeing, and I couldn't have pulled my gaze away if I'd wanted to. "I aint ever goin' to walk out on you, Jessilyn."

BE STILL MY HEART.

[Shawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

These books just get better with each one. I am drawn in and have already gone on to the next in the series because I just can't wait to see what happens next in Jessilyn's life. The wonderful things about these books is that it is not only the love story that you are following and watching grow but it is Jessilyn and her not only coming of age but of faith. You see her building and asking questions in each book and it is amazing. Jennifer Valent is a brillant writer, she has tears just running down my cheeks and then bursting out with a giggle all within a few lines. I love when a book can do that....just absolutely move me. Great job!
In this sequel to Jennifer’s award-winning debut novel Fireflies in December, Jessilyn Lassiter and her best friend Gemma Teague have survived prejudice and heartache in their lifelong friendship, but the summer of 1936 threatens to tear them apart yet again. Gemma’s job with the wealthy Hadley family leads to a crush on their youngest son. But Jessilyn’s insistence that he’s no good and that no rich white man would ever truly fall for a poor black girl like Gemma puts them at odds. Tragedy strikes when Jessilyn’s cherished neighbor girl is hit by a car and killed. Things get worse when an elderly friend is falsely accused of the crime, and the only way to clear his name is to put her family’s livelihood in jeopardy. For Jessilyn, this is a choice too hard to bear and she wonders where to turn for answers, especially when an angry mob threatens vigilante justice.

[Kerry Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cottonwood Whispers continues the story of Jessilyn Lassiter - now seventeen - her best friend Gemma, friend and childhood crush Luke, her parents, as well as various characters from the southern town of Calloway, Virginia in 1936. This story is second in a series of three, and I admit I wondered if I'd get as caught up in Cottonwood Whispers as I'd been in the first book in the series, Fireflies in December.

No worries there.

Cottonwood Whispers was a wonderful, heart-wrenching read. Jennifer Valent is both a vivid storyteller and character sculptor, weaving humorous dialogue, plot twists, soul-searching faith, and tumultuous real life into teenaged Jessilyn and her best friend Gemma's lives. Gemma is two years older and working for a wealthy family in town, causing a strain on their friendship. Jessilyn is spunky and outspoken, fighting to save her ailing friendship with Gemma while clinging to the sage advice of faith-filled older friend and neighbor, Miss Cleta, and nursing her budding crush on neighbor Luke.

What an adventure and privilege the author gifts to the reader, taking us on a journey into the heart and mind of these memorable characters, especially my favorite, sweet Elmer Poe. In Cottonwood Whispers, the author shows both the darkness of human nature and the light of God's love and grace through those who are His.

As a romantic sap, I soaked in the emotionally-charged relationship between Jessilyn and Luke. The author skillfully upped the stakes in their relationship to a sweet, fever pitch, and I'm so eager to finish their story in Catching Moondrops. (Well, sort of... how I wish this series wouldn't end.)

I just can't say enough good stuff about these sweet and salty books set in the south, and I highly recommend them.

[Julie N · Rating 3 out of 5]

First of all, thanks to Tyndale for sending me this ARC. I didn't realize it was a sequel, but it can be just as easily read as a stand-alone book. After reading it, I'm definitely going to be looking for a copy of the first book as well as any continuations. I'd love to see this as a series.

First and foremost, it was anything but the typical inspirational fiction cliche. The protagonist is likable, witty, self-reliant, and not a Christian. There is also no "Damascus Road" experience where she is saved. When the book ends, she still does not believe. It really convinced me that the author, Jennifer Erin Valent, is writing books that appeal across genres (inspirational literature, chick lit, literary lit...wahtever) that avoid preachy, formulaic plots. The Christians portrayed in the book are all real people. For example, we have the father figure who, yes, prays before meals, but who also has his own doubts and struggles. None of the characters are perfect and we see all their flaws, but can still relate to them. I'm also a sucker for a good story, and this has one. The plot is captivating (main character must choose between protecting her family or protecting an innocent man) and the writing is good.

My only dislike was the dialect. I'm from the South too, but I don't love reading heavy dialect in books. Also, the book is written in first person, with the protagonist as narrator. In her narration she has no dialect - in her conversation it's heavy and uses tons of colloquialisms. A small issue, given the depth of the story.

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

2 - Writing Style (It seemed like all of the characters sounded the same. It needed to vary more to distinguish between their personalities.)
4 - Kept me Awake at Night Reading (An easy read. I had already been interested in the characters from the first book, so that helped me want to keep reading.)
2 - Good Discussion Book (Not really.)
5 - Violence (Some, but nothing written in a disturbing or nightmarish way.)
5 - Sex (Clean.)
5 - Language (Clean.)
2 - Unique (It was an entertaining story, but nothing remarkably unique.)

I was disappointed in the second book in this series. It lacked depth and character development and started to get preachy and unnatural in its Christian values push. It's not that I don't agree with the values, it just started to feel unnatural and soapbox-ish. I will still read the third book in the series and hope that the quality of writing and story are closer to the first book. And I do want to see how she ties up the loose ends. 3.5 stars.

[Sonia · Rating 2 out of 5]

Follow up to "Fireflies in December". Valent has a wonderful way of writing, but this book was a little dissapointing. It was almost identical to Fireflies. And the main character is really hard to relate to. At points her immaturity, selfishness and lack of thinking before acting/speaking are truly annoying(!) That made it hard to continue interested in the story.

[Jaime W · Rating 2 out of 5]

Hard to think of much I actually liked about this book. Jessielynn, the main character, has little depth and even fewer qualities to draw the reader in. She's always on the offensive, very foolish and can't keep her word. I was unimpressed with the plot, everything was so obvious. No desire to read the last of the trilogy.

[Joleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cottonwood Whispers by Jennifer Erin Valent
Genre: Historical Christian fiction
Format: Kindle
Timeframe: 1936
Location: Calloway, Virginia
Main Characters:
Jessilyn Lassiter: 17-year old, AKA: Jessie
Gemma: Jessie’s best friend
Luke Talley: Jessie’s crush since 13
Mr. & Mrs. Lassiter: Jessie’s parents
Miss Cleta: Jessie’s wise older neighbor
Mr. Poe: Simple man, accused of running over a child
Joel Hadley: Banker’s son, thinks he can get away with anything

A little girl wanders off from her home and gets hit by a car. Because a simple man’s car was found dented, it’s assumed Mr. Poe hit the child who ends up in the hospital pretty battered. Poor, sweet Mr. Poe is bewildered by what’s happening to him: in jail and alone, with a village full of men ready to string him up.

But someone knows what happened and because of a threat is keeping silent. But Jessilyn can tell that there’s a secret and manages to get it out of her friend, but they still can’t say. Keeping this silent is eating at Jessie, who one day just can’t keep it inside.

Jessilyn Lassiter is a young lady with emotions all over the place. She’s either got her dander up and lashing out at Gemma, Luke or Joel Hadley, or she’s sweet as pie with her parents or Miss Cleta. But hardly a moment goes by that she isn’t indignant about something. I suppose that’s common with 17-year olds, but to me it was a bit much.

The faith issue in this book was an interesting one. Jessie doesn’t believe as her best friend or her parents do. She’s angry with God for things that have happened and it just gets worse as a several tragedies occur. But simple Mr. Poe’s faith and Miss Cleta’s wisdom add voices that are thought provoking.

Luke Hadley is Jessie’s love interest, and clearly he’s interested in her as well. But he’s such a nice man, and she’s such a volatile girl, I just don’t see why he pays her any mind.

Ah well, still a good story.

The conclusion is a rough one, and Jessie doesn’t seem any closer to believing in a God who doesn’t seem to hear her prayers. But there’s still another book.

Off to that one…

[Cathy Gohlke · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sequel to the story Valent’s Fireflies in December, Cottonwood Whispers begins during the summer of 1936, when seventeen-year-old Jessilyn Lassiter, who has getting a job and one particularly handsome young man on her mind, finds herself and her friend, Gemma, caught up in what has all the trappings of a murder mystery. The thing is, Jessilyn and Gemma know that the man accused is not the guilty party. They feel it in their bones—and more. Standing up against the most powerful forces in the county is not easy—or safe—for two teenage girls, especially when members of the town ignite in racial prejudice and violence. This well-told tale in true southern style kept me glued to the page. I could not put it down.

[Nora St Laurent · Rating 5 out of 5]

1937...a year when life was simple and carefree - or so we think? Can you imagine a time in life when you could send your kids walking to a store or to church without you? They did in 1937; Jessilyn and Gemma are best friends that have grown-up quick. Life was simple, but it wasn’t without its own racial tensions, where the rich tried to push around the poor, and a time when people thought they could take justice into their own hands.

Jessilyn says, “Daddy had told me before that sometimes the Lord lets us feel the weight of the world so we figure out how to let him carry it for us.”

I loved the innocence and truth in this story seen through the eyes of young Jessilyn who struggles to know the Lord and have the same relationship with him that her parents and Gemma have.

I was captivated once again by the likeable, fun and life like characters Jennifer Valent, creates. In this sequel, we’ve seen Jessilyn and Gemma as teenagers, both living together but separate because one is white and the other is black.

Jennifer sprinkles sweet innocent moments from childhood and living in a small town, in this story amongst important aspects of becoming a woman and finding true love. Jessilyn tries so hard to get everyone (especially Luke) to view her as a woman, not as a girl. I enjoyed how Jennifer hits this topic head on.

Jessilyn is a feisty and courageous, young white girl full of life, not afraid of telling people what she thinks, and willing to take a stand for what she believes in with her very life. I enjoyed the relationship she has with Gemma, her best friend. Jessilyn learns about growing up the hard way, when Gemma gets very upset with her for not keeping a secret - again. This time it could end their friendship. Jessilyn says this about herself, “I knew from my fingers to my toes that bad things were right around the corner. One more time I’d gone and opened my mouth when I should have kept it sewn up…bad things were in store for my family. Because there was no doubt that I’d brought ruin to us all with my loose lips.”

This sequel can be read as a stand alone story, but rest assured, you’ll want to read the first book to see what these young ones and their families went through. It’s another incredible story you wont’ soon forget. I love Jennifer’s style of writing in the first person through youthful eyes in 1937. I also liked how she tackles really hard to talk about issues. This book was entertaining, fun and down right heart-wrenching in parts. I loved the depths of emotions and issues this story took me. I will definitely want to read more of Jennifer’s books, you will too. Thanks to Tyndale for the review copy of this book.

Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St.Laurent
The Book Club Network www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com

[Melissa Frye · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I planned this week, I realized the FIRST tour for Cottonwood Whispers was on the schedule. Fear consumed me.

You see, I’ve had the book for quite some time, but I couldn’t bring myself to read it. It occupied a special place on my bookshelf right next to its predecessor, Fireflies in December. The excitement I felt upon hearing there was a sequel in the works turned into uncertainty.

My love for the first novel made me hesitate. I feared disappointment. The bar was set very high with Fireflies in December. Could Jennifer Erin Valent create another tale as deeply affecting as the first? Would Jessilyn and Gemma be as likeable the second time around?

With trepidation, I opened Cottonwood Whispers. My eyes drank in the familiar language and I quickly reacquainted myself with the characters. It was like returning to school after summer break. Before I knew it, I’d read several chapters and realized I shouldn’t have feared; I apologize to Ms. Valent for my doubts.

This book absorbed my attention and I railed against every little distraction that pulled me away. I related to Gemma and Harley’s struggle with faith. The unfair treatment of Mr. Poe angered me. I laughed, cried, smiled and sighed with the characters as they faced tragedy, revelations, hypocrisy and sacrifice.

This book is skillfully written on every level. Characterization, plot and story are weaved together through expertly crafted sentences, paragraphs and chapters. It will remain in its special place on my bookshelf and at the top of my recommended reading list.

[Petal · Rating 1 out of 5]

I found this book failing to deliver a plot or even characters..
Jessie is a selfish nosy girl who meddles in other people's business, and does not respect the boundaries of her friend Gemma..
She treats Gemma like a child and humiliates her in front of her employer and meddles in her personal affairs with no respect and gets offended when she is told to respect the boundaries...
She also happens to be a white girl who is prejudiced against other white people, for she has no reason to believe the Hadley are mistreating Gemma other than the exaggerated beliefs that she has about rich white people..

This book fails to deliver a basis and a purpose for Jessie's ideals and attitude towards her friend.. In fact all of the characters are not relatable as they have no apparent reason for their judgement..

I stopped at page 55 .. I can't really see any reason for the dramatic attitude of Jessie and her family.. It feels like the book is trying so hard to make drama out of nothing .. We don't really see anything the Hadley do to humiliate Gemma in order to justify Jessie's improper meddling or even her judgement that they are discriminating her friend... nothing really happened and the whole family is going mad ..

It's a little frustrating that 3 chapters in the book and nothing really is hooking the reader.. just regular events being dramatized nothing actually dramatic or interesting ..

[Ruth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Having loved Jennifer Erin Valent's first book, Fireflies in December I was eager to read this sequel which takes place about three years later. Gemma is still living with Jessilyn's family, but is now finished with school and working as a domestic servant for the rich family down the street. She is developing a relationship with the adult son of the family. Jessilyn realizes her family is in financial trouble (it is 1939 after all) and so she gets a part-time job helping a neighbor lady, who was already fond of her. Tragedy strikes when a three year old is struck by a car and left for dead. The man who is blamed is a mentally challenged African-American.

Shortly after this scenario became appparant I really thought I knew where this story was going. While to some extent, it ended the way I thought it would, some things were unexepected. I enjoyed the book and look forward to more of Valent's writing.

[April Cole · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in a series and the author did a fantastic job. I lived it. Since I had already read the first book, I was very invested in these characters and I loved seeing how they grew and changed. I highly recommend this book as well as Fireflies in December. Both are great stories of faith in God. This series is definitely a must read and I feel the author left this book open for more to come!

[Katie · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was a nice, easy read. I liked the first one - Fireflies in December - better. I felt that this one was just written to keep the relationship going without a clear goal of WHY to tell the main storyline. There was, IMO, a more interesting "faith moment" toward the end that would make it a great discussion book and spoke to me (though not really answering anything) at the time I read it.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story, but I hope Ms. Valent realizes that we now need a third!!!

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this second book in the Jessilyn Lassiter series as much as the first. Although this still had quite the drama, I didn’t have to hold my breath the entire book like I did with the first book, which was a nice change. I just absolutely adore the characters in this book. I was so glad Miss Cleta was in this second book as she is one of those very special women that makes this town so charming! Can you imagine a teenage girl willingly visiting with an older woman because she considers her her friend? What a blessing for both of them!

In this second book, Jessilyn finds hatred and prejudice yet again except this time in a different way. Gemma is now an adult and working in the home of a rich family. Jessilyn doesn’t like the type of attention this rich family’s son is showing Gemma and tries to warn her. Except the warning goes unheard and trouble follows.

Jennifer Erin Valent is an exceptional writer and has such a beautiful way with words. I absolutely loved the conversation Jessilyn had with Miss Cleta in the next to last chapter. Also, the last few sentences of this book sum up the reason why I love this series so much!

[Cindi · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is something about this series, and this book in particular, that really resonated with me. The author has such a smooth writing style that made me feel like I was part of the story. Maybe it's partially because it is told in 1st person, which is my favorite, that drew me in so deeply.

Whatever the case is, I was completely absorbed into the lives of these characters. Jessilyn, Luke and Gemma are so lifelike and likeable. I was right there in the thick of things which made this story so special. Oh, and there was a lot to be involved in. Much of it wasn't very good, though. Racism and other evil things are addressed in a realistic manner.

I especially enjoyed the fact that this story takes place during the 1930s. There doesn't seem to be a lot of Christian fiction covering this time period so I was quite pleased this one does and does it so well.

I cannot recommend this novel highly enough. I loved it from cover to cover and look forward to reading the third book in the series. Although this can be read as a standalone, I recommend starting with Fireflies in December so you can get the backstory of these unforgettable characters.

[Pat Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVE, love, love this book! This is a sequel to

There is something about this series, and this book in particular, that really resonated with me. The author has such a smooth writing style that made me feel like I was part of the story. Maybe it's partially because it is told in 1st person, which is my favorite, that drew me in so deeply.

Whatever the case is, I was completely absorbed into the lives of these characters. Jessilyn, Luke and Gemma are so lifelike and likeable. I was right there in the thick of things which made this story so special. Oh, and there was a lot to be involved in. Much of it wasn't very good, though. Racism and other evil things are addressed in a realistic

[Sheila Dailie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Friendship between white and black is not accepted in 1936 and youthful infatuation clouds the judgement of Gemma, thinking the youngest son of the family she is working for truly cares about her. However, she realizes that she was wrong. Not only does he make unwanted advances on her, but "borrows" the neighbor's car and hits another dearly loved little girl. Tensions in the neighborhood escalate, revealing the prejudice of the neighborhood. There is a lot of sadness as the book concludes, but this shows the need for faith.

[Cyndy · Rating 4 out of 5]

"…You read a good book or somethin’. And make sure it’s a book about people who ain’t got no troubles.” Valent, Jennifer Erin. Cottonwood Whispers (p. 203). Tyndale House Publishers. Kindle Edition. -- Excellent advice. Another tale of Gemma and Jessilyn, still getting into trouble beyond their years. Another great read about interracial friendship in the 1930s south by Ms. Valent. Highly recommended.

[Carol James maguire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic story.....don’t miss it!

I have enjoyed this series so much. Sometimes an author has the ability to draw you in to their fictional world so well that you feel as though you are really there...that these people are real and you are a part of their story. Jennifer has done just that. I am about to start the third book in this series and I’m already concerned about it ending.

[David Buckingham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marvelous Book

I loved this book. It's the second in a 3 book series. It's takes place back in the 30s, in the south, in the country, and the dialogue reflects that. I like the way it's written and it totally kept my attention and grabbed my heart. Plus it's totally clean, which I appreciate. I will definitely read book 3. I'm really interested in other books by this author too.

[Mel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cottonwood Whispers Review

This is the second book about Jessilyn and her family...another great story by this author. Definitely a worthwhile read, as well as one that will keep you reading it!

[Stacy culler · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would say this book was just ok. I liked Fireflies in December better. The dialect is somewhat annoying and I got kind of bored with all the scenes of Luke blushing. But I like the inter generational friendships, and the wholesome message.

[Beth McCauslin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a short read. Set in VA, in the late 1930's and meant to be a tale about friendship and truth in the racially changing South. I did enjoy it and feel that it might have been a good read for adolescent teen females.

[Dawna McLear · Rating 4 out of 5]

This sequel was fantastic, I loved the first book a little more but I still enjoyed the read. I love Jessilyn and Gemma's relationship and how they preserve during such a harsh and sad time. I was feeling all the emotions with this book and cannot wait to continue to the next book!

[Liz · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5*

[Carol Kuehner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent story!