Book Blurb:
In this tale of growth and survival, the reader is introduced to Tom and Millie Glendale, who though forced together through an arranged marriage, find love, peace and happiness on property that Millie inherited from her mother. Their need to rely on one another for acceptance and survival proves that past experiences do not dictate future happiness.
Book Buy Link: https://geni.us/c9JEs6R
Author Bio:
Char White is a life-long resident of Louisiana, the setting for the “Writing with Paula” series. After spending her early married life in the Sulphur, Louisiana area, the family relocated to west central Louisiana where she currently resides with her husband, Ray.
She always viewed the rearing of her three daughters as the most important work she would ever do. After they were all grown and living productive lives with their own families, Char found a new focus in her artistic efforts.
She started with wire sculpting, then moved on to fabric collage, but enjoys experimenting with a variety of mediums.
Most recently she has returned to her earliest creative outlet, writing.
Her artwork and books can be seen at the Natchitoches Art Gallery in Natchitoches, Louisiana and The Natchitoches Art Guild Gallery page on Facebook.
Editorial Review:
Every bit of good that Alfred Holcomb might have possessed had been buried along with his wife that day six years before. Millie was seven and Doreen only three years old when Alfred found himself burdened as the sole caretaker of his two young daughters. The day after the funeral he saddled his horse and rode into town to find another wife to replace the one who had died.
As the sun rises and sets over the vast expanse of Char White's narrative landscape in "Glendale Meadows," one finds the resonance of the human spirit echoed through the trials and triumphs of Tom and Millie Glendale. Theirs is a tale woven from the threads of adversity, entwined in the fabric of an arranged marriage, yet ultimately blossoming into a tapestry of love, hope, and fortitude.
From the onset, White masterfully orchestrates a symphony of emotions that enthralls the reader, beckoning them into the lives of Tom and Millie. The couple, bound by circumstance, discovers unexpected solace and joy on the land inherited by Millie from her mother. Through their shared reliance on one another, a profound truth unfolds—the shackles of past struggles need not bind the future. Instead, through acceptance and mutual support, they forge a path toward happiness and fulfillment.
In the vein of other classic writer's rich and expansive storytelling, "Glendale Meadow" is an enchanting revelation that resonates deeply with the human experience. White effortlessly intertwines the elements of sweetness and sorrow, hardness and tenderness, joyfulness and hopefulness, painting a vivid portrait of life's intricacies.
The emotional allure of the narrative is irresistible, captivating readers from the opening lines and refusing to release its grip until the final page. White's narrative prowess lies not merely in the plot's progression, but in the deeply human connection established between the reader and the characters. Tom and Millie's journey embodies the essence of perseverance, survival, and the conquest of love amidst adversities.
She reminisced, “Mama did this with Papa’s full knowledge, but after she died, he threw away or gave away her Bible. This one is from her childhood. I am grateful that Grandma Ruth kept it for me.” Millie hugged the Bible to her chest. “As much as I resent Papa’s treatment of me, I still wish he could find some of the happiness he felt with Mama. I wonder why her death caused him to change so drastically. Which of the conflicting personalities is his true self, the kind loving husband and father, or the selfish perverted fiend who inflicts hurts indiscriminately?”
She resigned to herself, “I guess I will never know.”
What distinguishes "Glendale Meadow" is its ability to blur the lines between historical fact and fiction. The tale feels remarkably authentic, evoking a sense of realism that echoes events etched into the annals of American history. The indelible marks of indentured servitude, the plight of orphans, the specter of abuse, and the struggle of authorities to rectify wrongs—they all resonate with a haunting familiarity. White's narrative does not dwell solely on the despair of these historical realities; rather, it magnifies the resilience and unwavering hope that persist even in the darkest of times.
The depth of emotional upheaval experienced by readers mirrors the rollercoaster ride of sentiments within the narrative. It is not uncommon for emotions to sway from crest to trough, mirroring the ebbs and flows of Tom and Millie's lives. White's deft penmanship compels readers to embrace the emotional whirlwind, engrossed in the characters' journey as they navigate through a tumultuous yet captivating landscape.
Furthermore, the testament to White's storytelling prowess is evident in the reviews and testimonials of readers who resonate deeply with the novel's gripping narrative. Countless readers, much like myself, have found themselves ensnared within the web of emotions spun by "Glendale Meadows." The eagerness for the sequel is palpable, a testament to White's ability to captivate and engross her audience.
"Glendale Meadow" stands as a literary gem, an eloquent ode to endurance, resilience, and the enduring power of love. Char White's narrative prowess, reminiscent of the narrative grandeur of past writers, renders this novel an essential addition to the shelves of enthusiasts of historical fiction. This remarkable tale resonates not only with the bygone era it portrays but also with the timeless essence of the human spirit. A recommendation of this exceptional work to friends and family is not just an endorsement but an invitation to embark on an unforgettable journey through the echoes of perseverance, survival, love, and triumph encapsulated within "Glendale Meadow."
Millie paused before adding, “Maybe that is what it means to trust God. We know how hard life was for Jesus. Maybe it’s supposed to be hard for us too, so we can be closer to HIM. Nothing that happens to us is all bad. The hard times make us appreciate the blessings all the more.”
*****
“Glendale Meadow” by Char White receives five stars and the “Highly Recommended” award of excellence from 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