Book Blurb:
An unforgettable tale of courage, compassion, and the pursuit of freedom.
Maggie has always accepted life's constraints: that is, until she witnesses a breathtaking moment of liberation as a butterfly breaks free from a spider's web. And this small, defiant act sparks a fire within her soul. That’s a dangerous thing for a field slave in 1850 Missouri. As her daughter ascends to the coveted position of personal maid to the Mistress, Maggie's family is thrust into the intricate dynamics of power and privilege within the House. But in the shadows, a chance encounter between Maggie's sons and Preacher, a burly, escaped slave, sets the stage for a risky alliance. Meanwhile, Lucy, the Master's lonely daughter, hungers for the warmth and kindness that Maggie effortlessly exudes. The boundaries that separate them are as rigid as the times they live in, but the desire for connection and understanding defies the odds. Maggie, recognizing an opportunity for freedom, finds herself entwined in a perilous dance between liberation and the relentless pull of her current station. Will she follow in the path of the butterfly?
Book Buy Link: https://geni.us/fhAp
Author Bio:
From television shows to football articles, Jo Sparkes can't put the pen down. She's interviewed Emmit Smith and Anquan Boldin (as Arizona Cardinals), taught screenwriting at the Film School at SCC, and went on camera to make "Stepping Above Criticism".
An award winning writer, she's recently moved to Plymouth, England - and learning to speak the language.
Editorial Review:
In "The Honey Tree," readers are transported to the heart of the antebellum South, where the lives of both the enslaved and plantation owners intersect in a richly intricate tale of hope, struggle, and determination. Set in the Sweetgum plantation, Sparkes intricately intertwines the stories of Maggie, Preacher, Honey, and others, painting a vivid picture of a society on the brink of change. Considering the subject matter, this is a story that, despite its grim setting, leaves one filled with a sense of hope and warmth.
The web shook as the spider approached. The butterfly’s blue wings gave a last burst of energy, and it broke loose. Popping clear of the web, it hovered for an instant beyond the spider’s reach. Beyond anyone’s reach. Then it soared off over the Mississippi.
Free.
“Ain’t no cotton in the sky,” Elvira giggled.
Sparkes expertly touches on the complexities of race, power, and freedom with a deft hand, inviting readers to follow its realistic and vibrantly realized cast of characters on a journey fraught with danger and redemption. Through its various characters, the novel grapples with themes of identity, sacrifice, and the enduring human spirit. And of course, freedom is a recurring motif throughout the novel, symbolizing both physical liberation from bondage and the pursuit of personal autonomy.
At the heart of the story are a cast of beautifully written characters, enslaved on a plantation entrenched in the brutality of its time. In the face of beatings and degradation, this group of individuals finds within themselves the courage to aspire for freedom. While the horrors of slavery loom large, their fortitude and spirit shine through
Each character, both the enslaved individuals and the family that owns the plantation, is intricately developed and imbued with a sense of humanity that resonated deeply. From Maggie’s steadfast determination for a better life for her children to the innocence and curiosity of lovely Honey, and Preacher’s quiet strength, these characters felt vividly real. Preacher is a standout character - initially resigned to his fate, his encounters with Maggie and Honey ignite a spark of hope within him, propelling him towards a daring quest for freedom.
Similarly, in a world where divisions based on race and social status were deeply entrenched, Miss Lucy's innocent friendship with Maggie’s boys was a wonderful glimmer of compassion. It tugs at the heartstrings, reminding us of the inherent goodness that exists within humanity, especially in the very young. Sparkes skillfully explores the intricate dynamics between the enslaved individuals and their owners, shedding light on the complexities of plantation life
This story transcends its setting, exploring themes of compassion, hope, and the longing for something more. It explores the complexities of human relationships and the yearning for independence in a world defined by oppression. Yet, amidst the darkness, there is light – moments of unexpected kindness, acts of courage, and a steadfast belief in the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.
Moreover, Sparkes' gift for storytelling captures the essence of the Deep South, immersing readers in a world teeming with sensory detail and emotional depth. From the oppressive heat of the cotton fields to the gentle rustle of the Mississippi River, the novel pulsates with life, inviting readers to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the time. The dialogue is also exceptional, offering an authentic portrayal of the characters' voices and interactions. Each conversation feels organic and true to the time period, capturing the nuances of speech patterns and dialects without ever feeling forced or contrived.
However, it is perhaps Sparkes' unflinching portrayal of the harsh realities of slavery that leaves the deepest impression. Through vivid imagery and poignant storytelling, she lays bare the brutality of plantation life, confronting readers with the stark injustices endured by the enslaved individuals. Yet, despite the cruelty and suffering, there shines a glimmer of hope—a hope forged in the power of friendship, love for each other, the pursuit of freedom, and the unwavering determination to defy the odds.
The Honey Tree is a beautiful exploration of the strength of the human spirit and a reminder of the enduring power of hope. HFC wholeheartedly recommends it to anyone in search of a story that inspires and uplifts, even in the darkest of times.
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“The Honey Tree” by Jo Sparkes receives five stars and the “Highly Recommended” award of excellence by the Historical Fiction Company
Award:
To have your historical novel editorially reviewed and/or enter the HFC Book of the Year contest, please visit www.thehistoricalfictioncompany.com/book-awards/award-submission
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