Milcreek Pond

Milcreek Pond #1

by Kay Carroll

**2019 B.R.A.G. MEDALLION WINNER**"Excellent coming-of-age, historical novel." Janice Sims, Harelequin Presents AuthorPast, present, and future had intertwined in a way Molly knew was true, but could explain to no one. Like the descendants of Abraham, who knew not what lay in the path ahead, but believed in the promise, that it would be fulfilled. Before the summer of 1879, fourteen year old Molly pretends to be carefree, sailing, never taking a breath. After hearing she may have to move away, she’s tired of being someone other than the girl in the reflection—the one who finds love and acceptance. Molly coaxes a lakeside meeting with the son of a nearby sharecropper, shy, good-looking Alex, who still won’t look her in the eye. Her spirit-toting ma’s obsessions, and number-codifying, poetic brother’s strangeness, rob Molly of support she needs to keep a beau, plus battle against the townsfolk who openly hate her, because of the "one-drop rule". She replaces the dreaded existence they’ve mapped out for her with her own blueprint. Molly enlists the help of, mill owner, W. Neuman, a stranger to the South, bringing his own brand of fierceness, and his wife's quirky, flamboyant, no-nonsense aunt, visiting from Boston. Together, they uncover the notions of three mysterious schemers who wish to keep Molly “in- her- place.” When an assailant viciously attacks Molly, she’s not sure who she can trust, even Alex.

252 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 24, 2012

About the author

A voracious reader from the age of four, Kay has shaped her world through reading. It is also her strength and vision to receive from others the utmost fulfillment through writing.
As part of the Milcreek Pond Collection: "Milcreek Pond" and "Indigo Sky" are adventurous true-to-life stories of historical fiction written with youth and the entire family in mind.
"Alex's Eyes" is the true saga of life after Reconstruction as seen through the eyes of her great-grandparents, Alex and Molly Powell.
The Milcreek Pond Book Series has won many awards and much recognition, including 2019 Semi-Finalist North Street Book Prize.
Kay, a high school history teacher who will soon retire to write full time, lives in the Midwestern Illinois Heartland with her husband, her most devoted fan.

Reviews

[Jen Carroll · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a solid historical fiction/mystery with great character development in terms of the main protagonist, The story does a good job of painting a picture of what it was like growing up in the south during that time, and I enjoyed the mystery surrounding Molly's biological father. I was able to guess pretty early on who that was, but it was an interesting journey to take with Molly nonetheless. There's a portion at the end (no spoilers) that will really get you on the edge of your seat, so stick with this one until the end. I'd be interested in a prequel about Molly's mother and her backstory leading up to the birth of Molly. Nice, light read that I think historical fiction fans will really enjoy.

[gj indieBRAG · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are proud to announce that MILCREEK POND by Kay Carroll is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells readers that this book is well worth their time and money!

[C Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading Milcreek Pond, and it is wonderful! I truly enjoyed reading it. I admired Kay Carroll's skills as I read, especially her use of descriptions to create vivid pictures and have me feel like I was there. I actually caught myself speaking with a southern drawl as I read at times! The story was very real, true to history, and very well told. I look forward to reading the sequel, Indigo Sky.

[Guadalupe Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so interesting, spectacular, and a great book to read . As you read this book you feel as if you are part of the story . I love reading books that make me feel the story . This book was written with such elegance. It was a story that I just couldn’t put down. I truly recommend this book to everyone, you will truly enjoy.

[Ciara · Rating 5 out of 5]

My friend read this book as part of her book club and suggested it. I could not put it down. Molly is so easy to love and inspiring. I felt like I was right there with her going through everything. I like this book better than the sequel, but it's pretty good too.

[Patricia Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very easy-to-read and follow story. The author writes so that you can feel the experiences through the characters and bringing the past to life. This book is not only a good read but educational. I’ll will recommend this one to all my reader friends.

[Ellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It centers on the life of a young girl, her mother and brother in the 1800's in who don't fit the mold of most relationships during that time. A great read!

[Shirley U. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading Millcreek Pond by Kay Carroll and really enjoyed the book. Millcreek Pond provides a historical background for a young adolescent girl growing up in the South during the late 19th century. The book is an excellent resource for students and teachers. The story takes place just after the Civil War at a time when the country and its people were seeking to rebuild their lives. The reader is given insight into the lives and interactions of Whites, Blacks and Indians during the Post Civil War era. The objective tone of the novel reveals the writers ability to balance racial conflict and tell a compelling story of hope. The writer is able to show the turbulent years of a country overcoming slavery and the emotional growth of a young girl seeking first love. Kay Carroll's extensive background in teaching is evident in the way she portrays Molly as someone who values education and perseverance.

Millcreek Pond takes the reader on a journey thru the life of young Molly: who is faced with societal prejudice, adolescence, and her own personal strong conviction. She relies on a foundation of love and guidance provided by a caring mother to help her progress through life. The authenticity of the language and setting brings all the characters to life for the reader. Molly is especially endearing in her quest to understand her budding emotions and reality of her world. She longs to live as the upper class but she was born Black and in poverty. The writer allows Molly a chance to experience the rich society amidst the conflicting reality of slavery. Molly comes into her own independence as she manipulates daily trials and triumphs in her life. Millcreek Pond is entertaining, uplifting as well as educational. I would highly recommend putting Millcreek Pond at the top of your must read books. I am positive readers will enjoy the read and wait in anticipation for the next novel by Kay Carroll.