Leanne D. (eclecticmusicmama) reviewed Sweeter than Birdsong (Saddler's Legacy, Bk 2) on + 426 more book reviews
I loved both books from this series and hope there will be more.
Kate's problems with shyness and trouble speaking or performing in public, in spite of her gifts, made her a very real heroine to many who suffer with with these same difficulties. This book brings out how a single event in our life can change the person we become. Kate and Ben both had to make decisions about what they would do with their lives when they reached their personal turning point.
I especially love the section of these books where the author goes into the history behind these stories and tells you what was real and what she changed in the story. It's so interesting that you leave the book wanting to learn more about this time period in our history.
Kate's problems with shyness and trouble speaking or performing in public, in spite of her gifts, made her a very real heroine to many who suffer with with these same difficulties. This book brings out how a single event in our life can change the person we become. Kate and Ben both had to make decisions about what they would do with their lives when they reached their personal turning point.
I especially love the section of these books where the author goes into the history behind these stories and tells you what was real and what she changed in the story. It's so interesting that you leave the book wanting to learn more about this time period in our history.
Mary N. (maggysue) reviewed Sweeter than Birdsong (Saddler's Legacy, Bk 2) on + 811 more book reviews
Excellent historical novel set before the Civil War. It is the story of Ben Hanbry and his love Kate Winter. It is a touching story of the man who wrote the song Darling Nelly Gray, which was considered "the Uncle Tom's Cabin of song." Also, featured is a very realistic portrayal of the Underground Railroad. I thought this was a very interesting and satisfying story. Highly recommended!
Renee C. (steelergirl83) reviewed Sweeter than Birdsong (Saddler's Legacy, Bk 2) on + 54 more book reviews
With last year's debut from author Rosslyn Elliott I immediately fell in love. Her ability to tell a tale with a great setting, complex characters, and vivid; raw emotion was superb. With the continuation of The Saddler's Legacy we meet the next generation of Hanbys and are once again thrust into a world of controversy and divided loyalties right on the cusp of a war that would divide a nation. Hold on to your hat, it's a dramatic story with twists you won't see coming!
Kate Winter's is an exceedingly shy lady with an extraordinary soul and heart for music. Fellow student at Otterbein College, Ben Hanby also has a heart for music and longs to draw beauty Kate out of her shell. On a trip to Cincinnati with friends Kate's life takes an unexpected turn when she learns the secret of the Hanby family and the key to unlocking her voice to reach all.
Fraught with emotion and a dash of adventure Sweeter Than Birdsong, though more traditional in the sense of setting and time period than Fairer Than Morning, is an interesting look into the lives of those who lived under the Fugitive Slave laws. Anyone who has an interest in history and the workings of the Underground Railroad and the tragedies of slavery will enjoy this splendid read. Sweeter Than Birdsong is a great sophomore novel from the pen of Rosslyn Elliott. I can't wait to see where she takes the Hanby family next.
*I received my complimentary copy of the book from the publicist in exchange for posting my honest opinion/review for a blog tour.*
Kate Winter's is an exceedingly shy lady with an extraordinary soul and heart for music. Fellow student at Otterbein College, Ben Hanby also has a heart for music and longs to draw beauty Kate out of her shell. On a trip to Cincinnati with friends Kate's life takes an unexpected turn when she learns the secret of the Hanby family and the key to unlocking her voice to reach all.
Fraught with emotion and a dash of adventure Sweeter Than Birdsong, though more traditional in the sense of setting and time period than Fairer Than Morning, is an interesting look into the lives of those who lived under the Fugitive Slave laws. Anyone who has an interest in history and the workings of the Underground Railroad and the tragedies of slavery will enjoy this splendid read. Sweeter Than Birdsong is a great sophomore novel from the pen of Rosslyn Elliott. I can't wait to see where she takes the Hanby family next.
*I received my complimentary copy of the book from the publicist in exchange for posting my honest opinion/review for a blog tour.*
Sweeter than Birdsong weaves emotions, our nations greatest tragedy and characters that long to stand up for whats right.
I think I felt the most connection with Kate. Though I have never been one to struggle with being shy or afraid to speak publically, I can understand that debilitating fear that can take over you. Her gentle growth through the story was absolutely perfect and I had to cheer when she stood up for something she believed in and was passionate about.
The fact that the novel is based on real characters and things that actually happened, made Ben seem larger than life on the page. Be sure and read the historical footnote at the end of the novel. It gives such an appreciation for all they did in their lifetime.
The pre Civil War era is one of my favorites. Helping slaves escape to freedom, fighting for whats right, valiance and despair. Hope and romance. There is little bit of everything wrapped up in this novel.
If I were to compare the first and second novels in the series, then I still prefer the first of the two. At times the plot seemed a bit languid, but when you step back and look at the story I could only appreciate the tapestry and layers spread the entire book.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my advance copy to review for Litfuse.
I think I felt the most connection with Kate. Though I have never been one to struggle with being shy or afraid to speak publically, I can understand that debilitating fear that can take over you. Her gentle growth through the story was absolutely perfect and I had to cheer when she stood up for something she believed in and was passionate about.
The fact that the novel is based on real characters and things that actually happened, made Ben seem larger than life on the page. Be sure and read the historical footnote at the end of the novel. It gives such an appreciation for all they did in their lifetime.
The pre Civil War era is one of my favorites. Helping slaves escape to freedom, fighting for whats right, valiance and despair. Hope and romance. There is little bit of everything wrapped up in this novel.
If I were to compare the first and second novels in the series, then I still prefer the first of the two. At times the plot seemed a bit languid, but when you step back and look at the story I could only appreciate the tapestry and layers spread the entire book.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my advance copy to review for Litfuse.
