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Once in a Blood Moon
Heaven’s Hill plantation, upriver from Georgetown, South Carolina, 1807: Fifteen-year-old Alexandra de Gambia, spoiled daughter of a wealthy African-American planter and a social climbing mother, balances on the tightrope between girlhood and the complicated adult world where one misstep can forever ruin a young woman’s prospects. Her dream is to become to an accomplished musician. She will have a chance to impress her first public audience when she plays her violin in the Christmas Concert to be held in her white cousin’s famous recital parlor located on the grounds of Pinnacles Plantation.
Alexandra's world of privilege devolves into a nightmare when her father is murdered and her mother dies. Alexandra and her brother Jimi are the only heirs to the vast estate of Heaven’s Hill. If they come to an unfortunate end, the plantation will become the property of recently appointed government officials. These power-hungry men neither know, nor care about the illustrious life of Alexandra’s African ancestors who brought knowledge of how to plant and harvest rice, and subsequent prosperity, to the Carolinas.
Alexandra's world of privilege devolves into a nightmare when her father is murdered and her mother dies. Alexandra and her brother Jimi are the only heirs to the vast estate of Heaven’s Hill. If they come to an unfortunate end, the plantation will become the property of recently appointed government officials. These power-hungry men neither know, nor care about the illustrious life of Alexandra’s African ancestors who brought knowledge of how to plant and harvest rice, and subsequent prosperity, to the Carolinas.
335 pages, Paperback
First published June 11, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
June 25, 2020
I loved, loved, loved this book and it totally hit me in all the feels!
This is definitely going to be one of my favorite books of the year if not of all time together with “Gone with the wind”.
It is a though but beautiful, aggravating but heartwarming, sad but hopeful and happy read.
I cried, got angry and wanted to punch something(the villains most of all or all the white people who were afraid to do what was right, bullyculture), got my heart broken and put back together and just felt with and rutted for Alexandra, Lulu, John Fowler, Hephaestus and so on in their fight for survival in a cruel and hostile environment.
This book is an historical fiction but written over the real story about John Fowler the ten year old boy who became the first white slave. The author Dorothea Bonneau is a descendant of John Fowler so we know he survived through all the horrors he went through. Some of the other characters might be real but I don’t know for certain.
The book is about sixteen year old Alexandra who grows up in the big house on the plantation of Heaven’s hill. She is black but her mother goes for being white the same as her younger brother Jimi. Her father is black to and lives in the village he created for his free black people. Everything goes well until they meet the new sheriff in town and then a lot of things starts to happen to Alexandra and her family and friends! She has to deal with a whole new reality and gets to experience a life so far from the one she used to know.
Alexandra is a strong, feisty, stubborn, brave, talented, lovable woman who never gives up, opens her heart and will do everything she can to help her family and friends survive even if it means she has to sacrifice her own life for them which also involves John Fowler.
Now I will stop goshing about this book and let you read it for yourself. Get ready to go on a Journey through a story that will wreck you but leave you fulfilled at the end.
Just know before you go into this book that there are though and hard descriptions of how the slaves were treated and some of the torture they went through so you have to have a strong stomach to read it (I had a very hard time reading it sometimes).
But the friendships between the black people both free and slaves was so heartwarming and there were white people who did everything they could to help them to and that was great to see amongst all the bad people.
I can definitely recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is definitely going to be one of my favorite books of the year if not of all time together with “Gone with the wind”.
It is a though but beautiful, aggravating but heartwarming, sad but hopeful and happy read.
I cried, got angry and wanted to punch something(the villains most of all or all the white people who were afraid to do what was right, bullyculture), got my heart broken and put back together and just felt with and rutted for Alexandra, Lulu, John Fowler, Hephaestus and so on in their fight for survival in a cruel and hostile environment.
This book is an historical fiction but written over the real story about John Fowler the ten year old boy who became the first white slave. The author Dorothea Bonneau is a descendant of John Fowler so we know he survived through all the horrors he went through. Some of the other characters might be real but I don’t know for certain.
The book is about sixteen year old Alexandra who grows up in the big house on the plantation of Heaven’s hill. She is black but her mother goes for being white the same as her younger brother Jimi. Her father is black to and lives in the village he created for his free black people. Everything goes well until they meet the new sheriff in town and then a lot of things starts to happen to Alexandra and her family and friends! She has to deal with a whole new reality and gets to experience a life so far from the one she used to know.
Alexandra is a strong, feisty, stubborn, brave, talented, lovable woman who never gives up, opens her heart and will do everything she can to help her family and friends survive even if it means she has to sacrifice her own life for them which also involves John Fowler.
Now I will stop goshing about this book and let you read it for yourself. Get ready to go on a Journey through a story that will wreck you but leave you fulfilled at the end.
Just know before you go into this book that there are though and hard descriptions of how the slaves were treated and some of the torture they went through so you have to have a strong stomach to read it (I had a very hard time reading it sometimes).
But the friendships between the black people both free and slaves was so heartwarming and there were white people who did everything they could to help them to and that was great to see amongst all the bad people.
I can definitely recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 11, 2020
I thought that this story is well written and comparing it with what's happening in today's world I feel that history is repeating itself. I just don't understand why we can't learn from it and get along like God has meant for us to do.
When I seen the cover of this book I wanted to read it. History fascinates me.
I wasn't disappointed. I was thoroughly captivated throughout the entire story.
I feel that the author has done a wonderful job in bringing the characherter's to life and making me feel like I belonged in the book.
I love when a book calls to me and this is the second one that did.
I didn't want it to end. I hope to read more by this awesome author. I really liked her story.
It's worth the reread.
My thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own
When I seen the cover of this book I wanted to read it. History fascinates me.
I wasn't disappointed. I was thoroughly captivated throughout the entire story.
I feel that the author has done a wonderful job in bringing the characherter's to life and making me feel like I belonged in the book.
I love when a book calls to me and this is the second one that did.
I didn't want it to end. I hope to read more by this awesome author. I really liked her story.
It's worth the reread.
My thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own
March 14, 2021
Really a 2.5
The story (3 stars) was intriguing and well-researched, but I struggled with both the believability and writing quality (2 stars). I wouldn't have finished reading this book except for our bookclub.
I wanted to love this book. It has great facts about traditions, history, and locales. But in an attempt to squeeze all that in, the story became rushed and the transitions non-existent. The reader doesn't get the chance to process at all, which in the end, makes important events become forgettable.
The story (3 stars) was intriguing and well-researched, but I struggled with both the believability and writing quality (2 stars). I wouldn't have finished reading this book except for our bookclub.
I wanted to love this book. It has great facts about traditions, history, and locales. But in an attempt to squeeze all that in, the story became rushed and the transitions non-existent. The reader doesn't get the chance to process at all, which in the end, makes important events become forgettable.
February 15, 2021
I read this book for my book club. It's a suspenseful story that gives a good depiction of plantation life in the South in the early 1800's. The author has carefully researched the historical facts and presents a vivid picture of the horrific treatment of slaves during those years.
I felt that the transitions between scenes were too abrupt, and that more editing would have improved the flow of the story.
I felt that the transitions between scenes were too abrupt, and that more editing would have improved the flow of the story.
June 10, 2020
I am of two minds about Once in a Blood Moon. It starts out as if it would be a spotlight on the racism we are currently raging against in the reaction to George Floyd's murder. The novel begins in the pre-Civil War South where proud, wealthy free black people people brought from Gambia years earlier have earned their wealth and privilege in rice farming, while living as free men while still following their African roots and beliefs.
Alexandra is a talented musician and the daughter of a mixed race woman who passes for white and her landowner husband who lives separately from her in a village nearby. Her mother seems repelled by Alexandra's dark skin and although raising her in a society of privilege, seems to resent the girl's dark skin, so like her father's, and treats her miserably. .
The first part of the book vividly illustrates what people face because of skin color alone. Alexandra must escaper from the unbearably cruel mistreatment perpetrated on her and people like her simply because of race. Vile, greedy whites and their criminal actions rob her of her father and brother and her heritage and her place. She is rendered homeless and is to be sold as a slave.
These scenes are so vivid and well drawn that the empathy I felt necessitated my putting the book down to recover from the horror and feelings of pain. Then, for whatever her reasons, author Bonneau turns the narrative into a Perils of Pauline, one near escape after another, thereby losing, for me, any verisimilitude she won in the early part of the book. Had the suspense continued, perhaps without the unrealistic happy ending, she might have written a 5 star novel for our time.
Alexandra is a talented musician and the daughter of a mixed race woman who passes for white and her landowner husband who lives separately from her in a village nearby. Her mother seems repelled by Alexandra's dark skin and although raising her in a society of privilege, seems to resent the girl's dark skin, so like her father's, and treats her miserably. .
The first part of the book vividly illustrates what people face because of skin color alone. Alexandra must escaper from the unbearably cruel mistreatment perpetrated on her and people like her simply because of race. Vile, greedy whites and their criminal actions rob her of her father and brother and her heritage and her place. She is rendered homeless and is to be sold as a slave.
These scenes are so vivid and well drawn that the empathy I felt necessitated my putting the book down to recover from the horror and feelings of pain. Then, for whatever her reasons, author Bonneau turns the narrative into a Perils of Pauline, one near escape after another, thereby losing, for me, any verisimilitude she won in the early part of the book. Had the suspense continued, perhaps without the unrealistic happy ending, she might have written a 5 star novel for our time.
July 23, 2020
Alexandra is the daughter of an African-American planter and a cruel woman who can pass for white. Her mother sits in the big house on the plantation, passing judgment and punishment on the slaves that serve her. She is a strict woman who dotes on her son, but not her daughter. Perhaps it’s because Alexandra reminds her of what she’s hiding from. When situations change in the south, Alexandra and her younger brother are no longer safe. No one of color is safe.
Alexandra grows by leaps and bounds throughout the book. From being sharp-tongued and defiant to losing not only the only home she has ever known but her freedom as she’s forced into slavery. She matures with each new distressing situation. Once in a Blood Moon is a heartbreaking and emotional read from a descendant of one of the characters. It’s a wonderful piece of historical fiction. Bonneau is raw and honest in her storytelling, she doesn’t hold back. If you feel uncomfortable reading this, then her storytelling has been successful. Nicely done.
Alexandra grows by leaps and bounds throughout the book. From being sharp-tongued and defiant to losing not only the only home she has ever known but her freedom as she’s forced into slavery. She matures with each new distressing situation. Once in a Blood Moon is a heartbreaking and emotional read from a descendant of one of the characters. It’s a wonderful piece of historical fiction. Bonneau is raw and honest in her storytelling, she doesn’t hold back. If you feel uncomfortable reading this, then her storytelling has been successful. Nicely done.
July 24, 2020
Very good book!
"Once in a Blood Moon" by Dorothea Hubble Bonneau is a fast-paced historical fiction novel that never has a dull moment. It is a very heartbreaking read at times as it details how slaves and biracial people were treated during the time period. The main character, Alexandra, is strong-willed, determined, and very likeable. I really loved the blend of history and spirituality that flowed through the novel, and the tense scenes and romance were added bonuses. I enjoyed this book very much and I learned a great deal. The author has thoroughly researched the subject, and definitely read the Author's Notes after you finish. Bonneau is a great writer! Five stars!
"Once in a Blood Moon" by Dorothea Hubble Bonneau is a fast-paced historical fiction novel that never has a dull moment. It is a very heartbreaking read at times as it details how slaves and biracial people were treated during the time period. The main character, Alexandra, is strong-willed, determined, and very likeable. I really loved the blend of history and spirituality that flowed through the novel, and the tense scenes and romance were added bonuses. I enjoyed this book very much and I learned a great deal. The author has thoroughly researched the subject, and definitely read the Author's Notes after you finish. Bonneau is a great writer! Five stars!
June 5, 2020
A beautiful, poignant story I will not forget. Amazing how human beings can inflict pain and horrors on other human beings because of the colour of their skin, while others risk their own lives to save people. This story shows these two sides of humanity as well as the strength of survival. The fact that this tale has been initiated by a true story/history makes it even more worthwhile! Excellent read!
Thank you Dorothea for lettong me read your story on NetGalley for free!
Thank you Dorothea for lettong me read your story on NetGalley for free!
July 8, 2020
Alexandra de Gambia has lived a dual life on Heaven Hill plantation. Her mother is concerned about social appearances and keeping up with the white world that she desperately wants to stay a part of. Her father lives a traditional farming life among other free blacks on Heaven Hill's grounds providing a healthy profit for his family. However, many people are not happy about the de Gambia's household, they believe that a black family should not hold land and will do anything in order to push them off their land. When it finally happens, Alexandra's father is prepared to protect her and her brother, Jimmy as the heirs to Heaven Hill. Things quickly turn sour as Jimmy and Alexandra are captured. Alexandra is sold to a master and hidden away in a tower. The tower is filled with the music of the master's son who dreams of being a composer. Alexandra commits the score to memory and impresses the master's son, Peter with her knowledge and talent.
Set in the early 1800's before the Underground Railroad, Once in a Blood Moon presents an intriguing historical fiction about the very unique situation of Alexandra de Gambia. Alexandra's family are black land owners and slaveholders in South Carolina that descended from a group of slaves that joined with the indigenous Cofitachiqui people who rebelled and freed themselves. Alexandra's character was caught between two worlds, but only wants to do what is right for her family. I was fascinated by the very different lives that her mother and father led as well as her willingness to please both. While Alexandra might not be a real person, the story of her ancestors is true and was amazing to learn about. I was equally absorbed in the fact that there were freemen that were slave owners as well. Alexandra's story quickly becomes perilous and absorbing as everything falls out from under her and her life changes in an instant. I was captivated by Alexandra's journey as a captured slave. I knew of the dangers, but still found it hard to read at many points. Alexandra's friend, the indentured servant, John Fowler also captured my attention and I was pleasantly surprised to see that John Fowler was a real person and an ancestor of the author. With an amazing ending, Once in a Blood Moon is an amazing story of an even more amazing group of people.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
Set in the early 1800's before the Underground Railroad, Once in a Blood Moon presents an intriguing historical fiction about the very unique situation of Alexandra de Gambia. Alexandra's family are black land owners and slaveholders in South Carolina that descended from a group of slaves that joined with the indigenous Cofitachiqui people who rebelled and freed themselves. Alexandra's character was caught between two worlds, but only wants to do what is right for her family. I was fascinated by the very different lives that her mother and father led as well as her willingness to please both. While Alexandra might not be a real person, the story of her ancestors is true and was amazing to learn about. I was equally absorbed in the fact that there were freemen that were slave owners as well. Alexandra's story quickly becomes perilous and absorbing as everything falls out from under her and her life changes in an instant. I was captivated by Alexandra's journey as a captured slave. I knew of the dangers, but still found it hard to read at many points. Alexandra's friend, the indentured servant, John Fowler also captured my attention and I was pleasantly surprised to see that John Fowler was a real person and an ancestor of the author. With an amazing ending, Once in a Blood Moon is an amazing story of an even more amazing group of people.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
July 13, 2020
This novel is packed with history about slavery, slave catchers, patrollers, and slave speculators also about African customs and religious practices kept alive in plantation society. It takes place when the U.S. was digesting the Louisiana Purchase, Lewis and Clark, and the War of 1812. In South Carolina and other southern states, it was also the time when racism was being codified into law such that free African Americans could be “legally” dispossessed of their plantations and their freedom. These things happen in Once in a Blood Moon as the main character Alexandra comes of age. She needs to understand her loss of heritage and position, new rules about African blood, her sudden status as a slave albeit a house slave, and where she might find love.
As Alexandra comes to terms with radical changes, the reader sees her developing resourcefulness and goodness of spirit. Her lode stars are the memory of her father and the freed people descended from Gambia in the Diola village that occupies part of his rice plantation – rice originally brought by the slaves. In the village we meet Alexandra’s Aunt Mamou who gives her strength to quiet fears that the disruptive spirit Aheolra encourages and to trust Didima instead. Through interior dialog we see Alexandra’s increasing self-confidence. The longevity of the Gambian spiritual tradition was one of the most fascinating topics in the book.
As Alexandra is passed from slave catchers to speculators – sometimes in a slave coffle – she encounters a young white boy John Fowler whose indenture will later be sold. Looking out for each other – and being looked after by other slaves – an escape is planned, the tempo picks up, and the pages turn faster. These passages are very visual: night-time scenes, swamps and snakebite, disguises, and a woman driven mad by the death of her son. While not giving away the ending one phrase should be mentioned. In relief after a difficult trial, Alexandra wonders “Is this grace?”
As Alexandra comes to terms with radical changes, the reader sees her developing resourcefulness and goodness of spirit. Her lode stars are the memory of her father and the freed people descended from Gambia in the Diola village that occupies part of his rice plantation – rice originally brought by the slaves. In the village we meet Alexandra’s Aunt Mamou who gives her strength to quiet fears that the disruptive spirit Aheolra encourages and to trust Didima instead. Through interior dialog we see Alexandra’s increasing self-confidence. The longevity of the Gambian spiritual tradition was one of the most fascinating topics in the book.
As Alexandra is passed from slave catchers to speculators – sometimes in a slave coffle – she encounters a young white boy John Fowler whose indenture will later be sold. Looking out for each other – and being looked after by other slaves – an escape is planned, the tempo picks up, and the pages turn faster. These passages are very visual: night-time scenes, swamps and snakebite, disguises, and a woman driven mad by the death of her son. While not giving away the ending one phrase should be mentioned. In relief after a difficult trial, Alexandra wonders “Is this grace?”
June 6, 2020
Given the current state of the world, I thought this was a timely read. Once in a Blood Moon was a heartbreaking, and beautiful story about Alexandra de Gambia, a free black woman in the pre-Civil War south. Alexandra was a strong, fierce, and talented protagonist, and we need more characters like her in books. Having grown up as a free black woman, her world is turned upside down when she is forced to go on the run. She gets a front and center seat in the way most black people are treated in the south. She goes from a bratty teenager who can't hold her tongue, to an understanding, compassionate, and empathetic young woman.
As a white woman with almost twenty-nine years of privilege, this book made me uncomfortable. Bonneau does not shy away from the brutality and mistreatment of blacks. As uncomfortable as it made me to read, it also left me angered that these incidents are not isolated to before the Civil War. This tough pill to swallow was balanced by the education of Diola/Jola culture. I had no idea people from Gambia were taken from their homes in Africa and brought to current day South Carolina to work the land in the 1500's! Their beliefs and customs were woven into the story beautifully, and I enjoyed my education. These people had a lasting impact on the agriculture in South Carolina, using their knowledge of rice growing to help make the state prosperous.
Honestly, this book could of been 100 pages longer and I still would of devoured it. The ending was so rushed and put together, that I was left a little disappointed. After all the buildup, the happy ending took all of a few pages. Overall though, a fantastic debut! Bonneau did her research and it shows - I would absolutely read more of her work.
As a white woman with almost twenty-nine years of privilege, this book made me uncomfortable. Bonneau does not shy away from the brutality and mistreatment of blacks. As uncomfortable as it made me to read, it also left me angered that these incidents are not isolated to before the Civil War. This tough pill to swallow was balanced by the education of Diola/Jola culture. I had no idea people from Gambia were taken from their homes in Africa and brought to current day South Carolina to work the land in the 1500's! Their beliefs and customs were woven into the story beautifully, and I enjoyed my education. These people had a lasting impact on the agriculture in South Carolina, using their knowledge of rice growing to help make the state prosperous.
Honestly, this book could of been 100 pages longer and I still would of devoured it. The ending was so rushed and put together, that I was left a little disappointed. After all the buildup, the happy ending took all of a few pages. Overall though, a fantastic debut! Bonneau did her research and it shows - I would absolutely read more of her work.
June 6, 2020
Given the current state of the world, I thought this was a timely read. Once in a Blood Moon was a heartbreaking, and beautiful story about Alexandra de Gambia, a free black woman in the pre-Civil War south. Alexandra was a strong, fierce, and talented protagonist, and we need more characters like her in books. Having grown up as a free black woman, her world is turned upside down when she is forced to go on the run. She gets a front and center seat in the way most black people are treated in the south. She goes from a bratty teenager who can't hold her tongue, to an understanding, compassionate, and empathetic young woman.
As a white woman with almost twenty-nine years of privilege, this book made me uncomfortable. Bonneau does not shy away from the brutality and mistreatment of blacks. As uncomfortable as it made me to read, it also left me angered that these incidents are not isolated to before the Civil War. This tough pill to swallow was balanced by the education of Diola/Jola culture. I had no idea people from Gambia were taken from their homes in Africa and brought to current day South Carolina to work the land in the 1500's! Their beliefs and customs were woven into the story beautifully, and I enjoyed my education. These people had a lasting impact on the agriculture in South Carolina, using their knowledge of rice growing to help make the state prosperous.
Honestly, this book could of been 100 pages longer and I still would of devoured it. The ending was so rushed and put together, that I was left a little disappointed. After all the buildup, the happy ending took all of a few pages. Overall though, a fantastic debut! Bonneau did her research and it shows - I would absolutely read more of her work.
As a white woman with almost twenty-nine years of privilege, this book made me uncomfortable. Bonneau does not shy away from the brutality and mistreatment of blacks. As uncomfortable as it made me to read, it also left me angered that these incidents are not isolated to before the Civil War. This tough pill to swallow was balanced by the education of Diola/Jola culture. I had no idea people from Gambia were taken from their homes in Africa and brought to current day South Carolina to work the land in the 1500's! Their beliefs and customs were woven into the story beautifully, and I enjoyed my education. These people had a lasting impact on the agriculture in South Carolina, using their knowledge of rice growing to help make the state prosperous.
Honestly, this book could of been 100 pages longer and I still would of devoured it. The ending was so rushed and put together, that I was left a little disappointed. After all the buildup, the happy ending took all of a few pages. Overall though, a fantastic debut! Bonneau did her research and it shows - I would absolutely read more of her work.
June 11, 2020
Once in a Blood Moon by Dorothea Hubble Bonneau is an excellent historical fiction that weaves a tale that is breathtaking, intriguing, and yet difficult to read at the same time.
I loved the story of Alexandra and her life that takes place in the early 1800s in South Carolina. I loved her complex character and how she grew as a person as the story progressed. She could have easily given up and given in with all of the horrific events that were hurdled her way, but she persevered and came out stronger and changed in the end.
I also liked that the author gave historical insight and the true events that served as a basis for her story.
This book while gorgeous, intricate, and beautiful also consisted of very heavy and serious subject matter. To see what slavery did to so many innocent souls and how widespread it was, is very, very hard to read. I feel it is important to learn from these blights in history, and we need to honor those whose lives were lost and affected by this injustice.
This was an excellent story that was a serious read, but yet had a ray of hope and inspiration threaded within to create an unforgettable tale.
5/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Acorn Publishing for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub, Amazon, and B&N accounts upon publication.
I loved the story of Alexandra and her life that takes place in the early 1800s in South Carolina. I loved her complex character and how she grew as a person as the story progressed. She could have easily given up and given in with all of the horrific events that were hurdled her way, but she persevered and came out stronger and changed in the end.
I also liked that the author gave historical insight and the true events that served as a basis for her story.
This book while gorgeous, intricate, and beautiful also consisted of very heavy and serious subject matter. To see what slavery did to so many innocent souls and how widespread it was, is very, very hard to read. I feel it is important to learn from these blights in history, and we need to honor those whose lives were lost and affected by this injustice.
This was an excellent story that was a serious read, but yet had a ray of hope and inspiration threaded within to create an unforgettable tale.
5/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Acorn Publishing for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub, Amazon, and B&N accounts upon publication.
June 11, 2020
Once in a Blood Moon by Dorothea Hubble Bonneau is an excellent historical fiction that weaves a tale that is breathtaking, intriguing, and yet difficult to read at the same time.
I loved the story of Alexandra and her life that takes place in the early 1800s in South Carolina. I loved her complex character and how she grew as a person as the story progressed. She could have easily given up and given in with all of the horrific events that were hurdled her way, but she persevered and came out stronger and changed in the end.
I also liked that the author gave historical insight and the true events that served as a basis for her story.
This book while gorgeous, intricate, and beautiful also consisted of very heavy and serious subject matter. To see what slavery did to so many innocent souls and how widespread it was, is very, very hard to read. I feel it is important to learn from these blights in history, and we need to honor those whose lives were lost and affected by this injustice.
This was an excellent story that was a serious read, but yet had a ray of hope and inspiration threaded within to create an unforgettable tale.
5/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Acorn Publishing for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub, Amazon, and B&N accounts upon publication.
I loved the story of Alexandra and her life that takes place in the early 1800s in South Carolina. I loved her complex character and how she grew as a person as the story progressed. She could have easily given up and given in with all of the horrific events that were hurdled her way, but she persevered and came out stronger and changed in the end.
I also liked that the author gave historical insight and the true events that served as a basis for her story.
This book while gorgeous, intricate, and beautiful also consisted of very heavy and serious subject matter. To see what slavery did to so many innocent souls and how widespread it was, is very, very hard to read. I feel it is important to learn from these blights in history, and we need to honor those whose lives were lost and affected by this injustice.
This was an excellent story that was a serious read, but yet had a ray of hope and inspiration threaded within to create an unforgettable tale.
5/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Acorn Publishing for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub, Amazon, and B&N accounts upon publication.
July 8, 2020
Book Review of Once in a Blood Moon by Dorothea Hubble Bonneau.
Once in a Blood Moon by Dorothea Hubble Bonneau.
In 19th Century America, Alexandra is living the life of a wealthy young woman until her father and mother dies and she falls into the hands of vicious slave traders. She will have to rely on her inner strength if she is to survive the cruelty that is inflicted upon her. Sold to a plantation with a ruthless mistress, she must use her gifts to stay alive. Help, friendship and love prevails where she least expects.
I thought that this novel was captivating and drew you in. I followed along with Alexandra’s journey, on a knife edge, hoping that she would escape and be free. It painted a vivid picture of what it was like to live at that time and experience suffering and cruelties at the hands of others. An amazing story with a hopeful ending. It stayed with me after I had finished reading it. I would like to see a sequel and find out what happens to Alexandra next. I gave this book five out of five stars.
With thanks to Acorn Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC, which I received in exchange for an honest review.
Once in a Blood Moon by Dorothea Hubble Bonneau.
In 19th Century America, Alexandra is living the life of a wealthy young woman until her father and mother dies and she falls into the hands of vicious slave traders. She will have to rely on her inner strength if she is to survive the cruelty that is inflicted upon her. Sold to a plantation with a ruthless mistress, she must use her gifts to stay alive. Help, friendship and love prevails where she least expects.
I thought that this novel was captivating and drew you in. I followed along with Alexandra’s journey, on a knife edge, hoping that she would escape and be free. It painted a vivid picture of what it was like to live at that time and experience suffering and cruelties at the hands of others. An amazing story with a hopeful ending. It stayed with me after I had finished reading it. I would like to see a sequel and find out what happens to Alexandra next. I gave this book five out of five stars.
With thanks to Acorn Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC, which I received in exchange for an honest review.
July 19, 2020
On a South Carolina plantation life was going so well for Alexandra, until a change of attitude meant that white men used laws to take the land from her African American family. With her kin dead or scattered, she tries to hide herself and her younger brother but if you look like a slave instead of an heiress, pretty soon you'll be sold as a slave....
A young white man the girl meets is selling himself into a seven year indenture and they get auctioned together. Alexandra shows us how life worked for the poor and the enslaved, as well as the hope that comes with a number of willing helpers. We also learn about the Gambia strains of rice being grown.
The device of starting with a wealthy girl is a good one as this brings the experience nearer to the present day reader who lives a similar life, with labour-saving appliances instead of servants. This story is at time brutal and not for the young. Where Alexandra is working on violin scores near the end seems the most implausible part, but it might have happened. This is a good, involving read which recreates those terrifying days.
I read an e-ARC from Fresh Fiction and Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
A young white man the girl meets is selling himself into a seven year indenture and they get auctioned together. Alexandra shows us how life worked for the poor and the enslaved, as well as the hope that comes with a number of willing helpers. We also learn about the Gambia strains of rice being grown.
The device of starting with a wealthy girl is a good one as this brings the experience nearer to the present day reader who lives a similar life, with labour-saving appliances instead of servants. This story is at time brutal and not for the young. Where Alexandra is working on violin scores near the end seems the most implausible part, but it might have happened. This is a good, involving read which recreates those terrifying days.
I read an e-ARC from Fresh Fiction and Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
June 23, 2020
Excellent debut novel, and would highly recommend. Once in a Blood Moon tells the story of Alexandra, an intelligent and gifted young woman of mixed race. Her mother, who could pass for white, seems to resent her daughter’s skin color, which I found a travesty. Her father lived in a nearby African village, honoring his heritage. I enjoyed learning the history of early 1800s South Carolina and rice farming. Alexandra comes close to losing everything she worked toward when she’s thrown out of her home and is about to be sold for slavery. After all the intense drama and dynamics, the ending was odd, with Alexandra making a “soft landing” and an abbreviated HEA. A little disappointing but not enough to spoil a beautiful and very well-written story.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 20, 2020
I usually stick to WWII historical fiction but I am trying to be knowledgable about black history so this one caught my eye. This is a story of a young, free, black woman and her brother Jimi. She is living the good life until her parents are both suddenly gone and her whole world turns upside down. Everything she has taken for granted and her comfortable life are a thing of the past.
This story had a very slow start for me. It mostly involved her violin playing and worrying about finding a husband. If these scenes had been shorter I might have been able to hold my attention better for the rest of the book. Despite this, it is well written and I got goosbumps when I discovered the author is a descendant of one of the characters!
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This story had a very slow start for me. It mostly involved her violin playing and worrying about finding a husband. If these scenes had been shorter I might have been able to hold my attention better for the rest of the book. Despite this, it is well written and I got goosbumps when I discovered the author is a descendant of one of the characters!
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 21, 2020
Dorothea Hubble Bonneau is a master storyteller and character builder, who was Inspired to write her book by a true story and one of her ancestors. Readers will viscerally experience the sudden and tragic turn of events for sixteen-year-old Alexandra Degambia, the daughter of a wealthy African-American planter and a social-climbing mother who can pass for White. The young, educated violinist leads a privileged existence in 1807 South Carolina. But when her parents die, she endures captivity and suffers humiliation and loss beyond her wildest nightmares. Is there any escape? Can she maintain the courage and grace necessary to save her life and the lives of others? Prepare to learn. Prepare to be astonished.
June 23, 2020
Once in a Blood Moon is a fascinating historical novel about free blacks in South Carolina in 1800. Alexandra is sixteen, a talented violinist, and is about to become a debutante when a law is passed declaring her and all blacks to be slaves. This is a thrilling story of terror, conflict and survival interwoven with African spirituality and mysticism. I learned a great deal from this outstanding book, especially about the first blacks arriving in South Carolina in 1526. There are excellent references documenting this little known fact. This riveting book is a great educational resource in our current growing awareness of racism and police brutality.
July 23, 2020
I really enjoyed Once in a Blood Moon. The arc from beginning to end was huge, and the action never let up. The out-of-the-frying-pan-into-the-fire series of events that unfolded was engaging and also felt true to the harrowing journey of the protagonist. The characters, especially Alexandra, were well drawn and multi-faceted, and their actions were the result of a tension between what they thought was right, what they needed to do to survive, and what they felt compelled to do by the world in which they lived. I also appreciated that the history informed the novel but was integrated in a way that didn't diffuse the action. I highly recommend this novel.
July 26, 2020
A well-researched historical novel by a Davis CA author(I live in Davis). Alexandra was black and her family owned a plantation and slaves. Her mother could pass for white. Although Alexandra was a talented violinist and was educated with her cousin who also passed for white at a nearby estate, her mother never approved of anything Alexandra did. When her mother dies, the plantation is seized by others and Alexandra has to flee for her life. Her father lives in a free black hidden community and some of the people of his community help her escape from being sold as a slave. It is fast-paced and hard to put down. Well done.
June 15, 2020
Enlightening Historical Fiction set in South Carolina during the early 1800s. Great for teen and YA readers! This book is very well written and is action-packed. I couldn't stop reading because I wanted to know what happened next! The reader learns about the history of South Carolina, what everyday life on a plantation from both sides of the story is like, and how love can be a powerful thing! I also appreciated how the author weaves her ancestor’s experience throughout the story.
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Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for this review!
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Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for this review!
June 16, 2020
This was the perfect book for the times we are in. If you need a reminder about how horrible slavery was and how people were treated - READ THIS BOOK!! A beautiful piece of literature and the surprise at the end when I read the about the author - brought tears to my eyes.
This book delves into slavery, the mixing of races, the racism that existed between various shades of black, etc. In some ways, I felt like I was reading about the current time. I am off to find if she has another other books, if not, I cannot wait for something else. Amazing.
This book delves into slavery, the mixing of races, the racism that existed between various shades of black, etc. In some ways, I felt like I was reading about the current time. I am off to find if she has another other books, if not, I cannot wait for something else. Amazing.
June 16, 2020
This was the perfect book for the times we are in. If you need a reminder about how horrible slavery was and how people were treated - READ THIS BOOK!! A beautiful piece of literature and the surprise at the end when I read the about the author - brought tears to my eyes.
This book delves into slavery, the mixing of races, the racism that existed between various shades of black, etc. In some ways, I felt like I was reading about the current time. I am off to find if she has another other books, if not, I cannot wait for something else. Amazing.
This book delves into slavery, the mixing of races, the racism that existed between various shades of black, etc. In some ways, I felt like I was reading about the current time. I am off to find if she has another other books, if not, I cannot wait for something else. Amazing.
June 17, 2020
This book is a interesting and entertaining read I read in a short amount of time. The author did her research and it shows in her carefully narrated story. With everything going on in the world, this book brought realization and harsh reality of our world. The author's narrating pace was readable and the MC and the characters are easy to like. If I had any complaint, this would be that the storyline could improve and the first few chapters not drag. I'd give this a solid three stars.
Ps. The author gave me an ARC of her book but this doesn't affect my review. My opinions are my own.
Ps. The author gave me an ARC of her book but this doesn't affect my review. My opinions are my own.
June 25, 2020
I loved how deep this book goes. It is historical and makes you think about history and can really translate today. It's great to bring to light such topics and I really think it was very well done with Once in a Blood Moon.
Characterization is important and I loved the voice and life she gave her main character. She really shined in the story and the reader was able to understand her motivations and feel what she felt through the writing.
This story isn't predictable either, which is great. I like that there was a unique approach to how everything unfolded.
Characterization is important and I loved the voice and life she gave her main character. She really shined in the story and the reader was able to understand her motivations and feel what she felt through the writing.
This story isn't predictable either, which is great. I like that there was a unique approach to how everything unfolded.
June 25, 2020
This is a well written and fascinating historical story of Alexander's life in early 1800 South Carolina. The author does a fantastic job showing the horrible events and treatment of slavery and is launched at a time of today's awareness for human kindness,racism and police brutality. It's brought to life with descriptive and detailed scenes and had me glued to the pages from start to finish. I highly recommend this book. Well done!!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
August 3, 2020
Wow, I was blown away by how much this book really connected. The main characters was wonderfully penned and she was strong and someone I got behind early on.
I liked the historical background to the evolving story. It really added another element to the story and gave it heart. I think the fact that the author knows the history of what she is writing really shines through.
I loved the book from beginning to end. I found this to be very moving at times. I’m so glad I took the time to read this.
I liked the historical background to the evolving story. It really added another element to the story and gave it heart. I think the fact that the author knows the history of what she is writing really shines through.
I loved the book from beginning to end. I found this to be very moving at times. I’m so glad I took the time to read this.
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October 18, 2020I was privileged to be in on this book as it was written. The result is an informative, well-researched, very original story. Don’t pass up the chance to learn a hidden part of our countries history!
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