A Civil War Novel (Ironwood Plantation Family Saga Book 1)

I have read this book several times in the last few weeks, I enjoyed it that much. I am a high school English teacher, as well as an editor. I tend to read very critically, even when I read for pleasure. In reference to the previous comment about misspellings, the only misspelled words I saw were in the slave dialogue. The comma issue, which I noticed as well, is grammatically correct. The author inserted commas according to proper grammar. It is personal preference to add commas for pauses and dramatic effect. This author chose to insert commas only when necessary, using the "less is more" concept I assume. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next in the series.

I truly love reading this book. And have purchased the next. I would have given 5 stars, reason is the time period all reads the same. Yes I know it's the civil war was what it was and that doesn't change. But it was good and I will read others from this author

I was given a copy of the Whistle Walk for an honest review.

Let me tell you, I could not put this book. I gripped me from the very page to the last. I wasn't sure what to expect but I got more than I bargained for.

Ruth and Lydia's stories are interwoven into each other. Lydia is young Southern belle to be married to a man she barely knows. She is expected to act like a lady and the chains of her upbringing hold her back. Her mother cares for her but she does what is expected of her as a Southern belle. Lydia's secret is heartbreaking but her development throughout the story keeps you rooting for her.

Ruth is the slave woman who tragic past just starts to make you cry. I mean, several pages into her story and I just started bawling. It didn't make sense that someone should go through so much pain but then people do and the depiction of that is heart wrenching. But her vitality and her determination to not quake makes her an admirable character.

When Lydia buys her, she actually saves her. With that purchase, begins the story of two women who change each other besides external forces trying to mold them into what is expected for them. Set in the Civil War, we watch as the South fights for it's way of life and see the birth of a new nation. At Ironwood, we see the way things change and how two women are liberated by the decision to not keep to the status quo.

All in all, it was a wonderful read. It was Gone with the Wind but better. Characters you can love and hate. A story that kept you turning page by page. A wonderful read.

I thought since this book is apart of a series it would be a cliffhanger, especially because it felt slow in beginning. I was glad to see all of the characters stories concluded by the end. . It has really well thought out storyline. I can typically guess exactly how something will end based on earlier evidence,but the plot twists were well done.

by Andrea Renee Cox

So many authors write Christian fiction these days that it’s nearly impossible to keep up. One way I discover new-to-me authors is by participating in group reads in one of the online book clubs I’m a member of.

That’s how I came across The Whistle Walk by Stephenia H. McGee.

The Whistle Walk is a Civil War tale of a bride becoming the Lady of Ironwood. Lydia struggles to find her proper place as a wife, hostess, and slave owner. Just as she begins to make sense of things, a war rips apart the country and turns everything inside out. Will Lydia be able to keep her beloved Ironwood Plantation in one piece—and its slave in their place—until her husband returns home from battle? Or will the various trials she faces prove more than her inner strength can withstand?

This book was quite a surprise to me. It’s a beautiful story of family, honor, and pushing beyond the boundaries society demands we adhere to. Faith in God also played an important role, which is always a key feature of Christian fiction that I enjoy. It was interesting to see the different points of view during the Civil War, from the lady of a plantation to the slaves who kept the place running to a soldier in the war. Each role was delivered perfectly, giving me a pretty complete idea of what it would have been like to live at that time.

The only thing I disliked about this book is how much sexual relations were hinted at. For that reason, I cannot recommend it for anyone under the age of eighteen.

However, I did greatly enjoy the journey Lydia (and others) made through The Whistle Walk. I only hope I am blessed with as much strength and courage as she possessed, should the need arise.

This book is a great retelling of The Civil War from a fictional angle. I was reminded of "Gone With The Wind" but I liked "The Whistle Walk" a little better because it told the story from both a free woman and a slave.

This book was hard to put down because I wanted to see what happened next. This book made me cried at some of the scenes.

This book is a story of friendship between two women in a time when these two shouldn't have been according to the customs.

I was given a pfd file of the book for an honest review and even though the story line sounded like a story I would like, I have to say I had no idea that I would like it so well and want a copy of the print book to keep on my shelf. This book should be made into a movie, I think it could be a favorite for history fans and romance fans.

This book is also a love story but that story is secondary to the courage that Ruth and Lydia has to accept.

There are surprises in this book, that I personally didn't see coming but I am so glad that they happened.

If I would have lived back in the days before the Civil War, Ironwood Plantation is the type of plantation that I would have wanted to be a part of, the slaves weren't treated badly but I am glad that I was born after that time as no one should be the properly of another man!

"The Whistle Walk" starts out in narrative language but as the story progresses it is written so well that you don't notice it being narrative. I could actually see the scenes unfold in my mind.

I recommend this book to all readers.

" The Whistle Walk " is the first book in the "Ironwood Plantation Family Saga" and the second book promises to be just as good as the first. Stephenia is well on her way to being a great author and is one of my new favorite authors!

I am giving "The Whistle Walk" five stars!

The Whistle Walk is one of the best books I have ever read. The setting is in 1860's during the civil war period at Ironwood Plantation. It shows love and the ability for change. Both Lydia and Ruth were full or vigor and determination! They became friends when it was not truly in either of their best interest! This book shows how any obstacle we encounter can be overcome through the love of Jesus and the greatest commandment to love one another. This is a must read! What a wonderful writer Stephenia McGee is. I can't wait to read the next book!!!
Lori

Wow! What an absolutely awesome fictional historic read. I loved this story that grabs you and puts you right in the midst. The emotions that are so powerfully written that you feel them as if you are a character in the story. So real that you understand how the people on both sides of the war must and both races of the people have felt during this time. How could Lydia survive until her husband was back from war? Who was the woman that he brought back with him from war? Well....you just have to read it to find out for yourself. I love this writer's style of writing. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series. I was given this book for an honest opinion.

I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

"It seems to me like evil pays no mind to your status or color."

As a tentative new bride, Lydia Harper is horrified to witness a young Negro woman's brutal beating upon a trip into town, surprising even her husband by purchasing the woman to serve as her own lady's maid. Ruth, having recently been stolen from her previous master's plantation, is grateful to be alive and quickly learns what the mistress of her new home expects of her. When the call to war descends upon the deep South, Lydia and Ruth become determined to save Ironwood for generations to come, no matter what the cost.

Two women, separated by societal expectations and inexplicably united by injustice, forge a union that transcends the "whistle walk" along Mississippi's beautiful Ironwood plantation. Would that we would all "write our story on the wall", for "there is a balm in Gilead . . . . to cure a sin-sick soul".

The Whistle Walk: A Civil War Novel is by Stephenia H. McGee. It is an Ironwood Novel. It is set mainly in mythical Oakville, Mississippi on the Ironwood plantation beginning March 16, 1862.
Ruth and her sister Bridget snuck into the kitchen pantry to get some flour to make their brother a birthday cake. They knew if they were caught they would be whipped, for a field slave had no business in the kitchen. They accidentally set the kitchen on fire and ran. The fire spread rapidly to the house and eventually to the slave cabins. The girls were in the woods until they figured out the slave cabins were on fire. They raced to their cabin to find it in flames and their mother and brother dead. Overcome with grief and fear, they ran to the woods again. The next morning as they began returning to their cabin area, they were picked up by slave hunters. Despite being on their master’s land and their protestations, they were tied with the other slaves and taken away. Thus began Ruth’s journey which would end up on the Ironwood plantation.
Lydia Cox was anxious and she tried on her wedding dress the night before her wedding. Her Mother had done an excellent job of having the dress made and Lydia felt beautiful in it. She knew she was lucky that Charles Harper wanted to marry her. Lydia knew she was different from the other girls and her own Mother. She would rather be alone and watching from the outside than inside with dozens of people around her. She knew that Charles would not want her if he knew her secret. She knew he was a good man or her Father would not have agreed to the wedding; but you never knew how people would react to a secret.
Charles Harper was happy to wed Lydia. He admired her greatly and was definitely attracted to her. It was time he married and he would do what he could to provide for her and keep her happy. He wanted someone he could talk to and who would be a helpmate and not just an ornament. He was sure he found this person in Lydia.
Immediately following the reception, Charles took Lydia to Ironwood, his family plantation. Here she was to live and bear children for him and hopefully be the helpmate he wanted. Lydia saw his plantation home and knew she would have to learn quickly how to be the wife he needed. She would do her best to please him, if she could. Would her secret come between them? Would the War reach them and destroy all Charles and his Father had built? How and why would the paths of Lydia and Ruth converge?

This book was almost backwards from the way most books affect me, because I believe the beginning had the biggest payoff. Ruth's story of capture and the process of making her way to Ironwood was beautifully written and captivating, enough so that the climactic events seemed to happen early on and near the halfway point it felt like it was more "what happened after the story." I believe this may have had something to do with the fact that there was some setup for a sequel. There was one lovely twist at the end, and I have to add that Noah was my favorite character - truly an honorable and loyal man.

I absolutely loved this book! It takes place in the 1800's during the time of the Civil War. Two ladies from entirely different backgrounds, one born on a plantation, the other a slave working as a field hand on a plantation, form a deep friendship that relies on their strength, trust, and faith to help pull them through the trials they will face together. Each one with a secret that they unfortunately find out they have in common. You will have to read and find out why it is hard for them to open their hearts to the men who fall in love with them. Smell the gunpowder and hear the cries of agony as men battle and lose their lives to the war. Stephenia will engage you in the storyline and make you feel like you are witnessing every event in person. She is a new writer to me and I had a hard time putting this book down. I thoroughly enjoyed it. If you are looking for a new book and author, she will not disappoint you. Can't wait for the next one to come out! I was given a copy of the book for an honest review.

Excellent storyline but needed an editor. The writing is okay, with interesting characters. It starts strong, but falters in the middle. There is even one awful historical mistake (a mention of Sherman's destruction in 1862, two years before it happened). Then our southern belle makes a kind of occupy wall street speech which is really unrealistic. I sympathize with what the author was trying to portray but the flawed execution in the second half of the book may spoil it for you.

I have read numerous books about southern people living on southern plantations during the Civil War years, but none like this book. This is the story of a girl who is raised as the only child of an older couple and diligently taught southern propriety. Her daddy takes great care in finding a wealthy gentleman who will be a kind and loving husband. He is very successful but the daughter is afraid and believes that her husband's feelings will change when he discovers her secret. Eventually she confesses her secret and falls in love with him just before he is forced to join the war. As he struggles on the battlefield, she struggle to save their plantation and their slaves. Due to her loneliness and disgust with propriety, she establishes a friendship with her maid and promises all the slaves that they will be paid wages. Eventually the war ends up on her doorstep and she almost loses everything, but the story has some exciting twists and turns. A sweet love story between a husband and wife and how their experiences before and after the Civil War changed their views about blacks.

I enjoyed this book when I read it the first time a year or more ago. Although Heir of Hope was written first, I wanted to read The Whistle Walk again before reading it. Just finished it and enjoyed it just as much, if not more, in anticipation of reading Heir of Hope. Virtually no mistakes or misspellings. (Used yolk for yoke once, for instance, but so seamless for a book of this length, totally forgivable.) Recommend it for anyone who likes historical settings with a beautiful love story and strength of friendship woven throughout. I love the way Stephenia H. McGee ties characters from different books together.

The Whistle Walk is one of those books that drew me into the story and made it hard to leave. The friendship between a young bride and her slave is unlikely, and yet it feels inevitable. Both have suffered to greater or lesser degrees, and are able to offer strength and protection to the other.

I don’t know that I’d call it a Romance, although romance plays a big part as Lydia learns to love her new husband and Ruth finds a good man to love. The central focus is the relationship between Lydia and Ruth, played out against the dangerous background of war. Their loyalty, courage, and faith bring them through.

Disclosure: I won this book in a raffle, which had no effect on my review. I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction.

The Whistle Walk had me at the title. This is one of the best Civil War novels I've read. Stephenia H. McGee captured the feelings of so many white Southerners and her characters are well drawn. I loved Lydia from the start when she slipped away on her eve of her wedding to be by herself, and later in the book, we see her strength when the war comes to Ironwood--a true steel Magnolia. And Charles was such a gentle man. McGee also captured Ruth's indomitable spirit and her loyalty to the woman who saved her life.

I intended to read only a chapter or two before going to sleep. Instead I read well into the night. It is a book that is hard to put down.

Stephania H. Mcgee's book, The Whistle Walk, is so much more than the wonderful romance story that it is. Set during the Civil War this action packed book is filled with great detailed descriptions of a time so long ago. So true to life, I found myself smiling as I envisioned the Whistle walk, I cringed when the cannons fired, and I was disgusted at the descriptions of the many injustices of that time.

The women in this story stand out for their courage to make the right decisions. From deep within came an incredible strength to help them get through some rough situations. Working through their emotions these women were able to overcome the horrors of a time long ago.

I can't wait to read more of this saga from Stephania H. McGee!

I was given an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

So preposterous that I didn't make it past a few chapters. Negro dialects, stereotypes, etc. just didn't lend anything to the plot. Throw an abundance of religion, stir in some sex and history and you pretty much have this one covered.

This was an amazing book! The only thing I disliked was that it wasn't another 200+ pages! The characters were well developed, solid storyline, you felt as if you were part of the story. I loved the author's story so much because it addressed the ages long heartbreak off white vs black and brought both sides together with love and acceptance of each other and to appreciate each other's differences. How I wish the people of our time now could do the same!! We're all God's children and He loves us the same. I would love to read more from this author and if it were civil war era that would make it perfect! Congratulations to Me. McGhee on a wonderful novel!

Trying to figure out how unlimited worked, I picked this book. And it has felt like a journey. I laughed, I cried far more often than I have with other books. I love how the strengths and weaknesses of each character were balanced out by their companions. It's a book of people instead of a book centered around one person. I liked how God worked in this book, in subtle ways you don't always understand or even wrap your mind around. Things lay on the heart and you have to follow this drive that doesn't make sense until the future, and in this book, the future will be generations and a few books away, I believe. I can't wait for the next journey.

I like the read books about the Civil War and this is a great story. Some plantations like Ironwood were very good to there slaves and realized change was coming. This shows abuse was not only limited to the slaves but to whites as well. Love was lost, found, lost and finally found again. A wonderful book for all ages to read. I can not wait for the next phase novel to come out to buy and read. Good luck to the author: Stephenie H. McGee with her book.

The Whistle Walk is a great book! The author gracefully handled two difficult subjects: childhood sexual abuse and slavery. She did this with two strong women: one a slave, the other a plantation owners wife. Lydia rescued a slave, Ruth, and made her her own ladies maid. They both had to learn to trust the men in their lives as well as forge a friendship. As they got to know each other their similarities come to light. They learned to trust God even when life seemed uncertain. All this against the background of the Civil War. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading stories of this era.

Interesting plot and characters. Light reading and perhaps because there was little depiction of the war, few blood,guts and gore scenes to disturb ones sleep if the book were pre-bedtime reading.

Contrary to the thinking of another reader, the English langsuage rules aren't at all ambiguous. Punctuation, spelling and grammer are well defined. An exception would be, as the reader stated, in the case of demonstrating a character's unique way of speaking. I confess to often wondering if whatever passes as editing at the store is done by someone without the ability to understand English. The largest issue is that these errors distract from an otherwise absorbing story.
BTW, as I read/edit my own review I notice a typo but have no idea how to "backup" to correct it I'll simply ask you to overtook it (this time:).

One of the best Civil War era novels I can ever remember reading. Ms. McGee reveals the hidden depths in her characters and let's us watch them develop into people you wish were your own ancestors. A God-directed "chance" meeting between a young white woman and a beaten, an emaciated young black girl sets both on a path neither expected. Their growing friendship in a time when such things were virtually unheard of will move your heart. I cannot strongly enough recommend this in depth story. It will linger in your heart and mind. Don't let yourself miss this incredible novel.

I was given a free copy of the book in advance of publication for an honest review. I think I would vote Stephania H. McGee as best new author of 2014. As soon as this book is available for purchase, it will be added to my personal library.

Fantastic, well written work of historical fiction. Lydia and Ruth, one born a slave, one born a Southern belle, bond over hard social issues. Both women are strong women fighting their own battles with the expectations surrounding their stations in life. God brings each into the other's life in order to heal deep hurt over injustice, guilt, and pain. Absolutely loved the book and hope to get to read the rest of the series. Now, I just have to wait for them to be written and released. The only thing that I don't like about the book and series. I did receive a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This books as well as its sequel, Heir of Hope, are two of the best books I have read that take place during the time of the Civil War. In this book the author has written a story with characters so real I felt like I was living the story with them. After I started it, I read it in one setting because I could not put it down. The author also has captured in a very real way the spirit of that time. I definitely look forward to reading more from this author.

The history part as far as how young ladies were suppose behave and how Lydia perceived herself was the guts and glory of this story. Friendship and LOVE and how you treat each other were portrayed excellent. I truly enjoyed the characters, their stories and how all of them grew to be such wonderful people and saved themselves in such trying times!!!! Thank You for beautiful story and looking forward to the SEQUELS!!!!!

Great novel . Two ladies of two different backgrounds with so much in common. Learn to not judge by color of their skin and to be the women they were meant to be. As they learn to trust each other and survive the daily struggles of their roles but to also change the future together as one

I was given a copy of this book to review, and I loved it! I am always drawn to stories that take place during the Civil War, and this one did not disappoint. The deep friendship between the two main characters is truly inspiring. In spite of their differences, they became best friends. They were always there to love and support each other.

This book is one of the best books I have read, and I am looking forward to more stories by this wonderful author. Be sure that you read it. You will enjoy it!

This is the first book I I have read by Stephanie McGee. She pulled me in. I can't wait to read the rest of her books.
Wholesome, historical, fresh. I love how her next book goes back to this book but in the future.

Thank you

I was given this book to read and give an honest review. I love the Civil war era and this book did not disappoint me at all. It is so good that it was hard to put down and every chance I got I was back reading it. I loved the main characters, one excepting the other dispite the protocol that she was to maintain. A lovely story that hooked you right away. You will not be disappointed in this well written book. I can't wait for more from this author.

I love anything Christian historic fiction. A very gifted writer. Even though the whistle walk was explained, still confused about it as the title. Very engaging hope to read the second in series soon.

Great book took me on a seminal journey back to the 1800 civil war era.
Interesting to read of how ladies were thought to be the weaker sex ,yet as their husbands left to go away to fight for their southern life style. The wives were left to run huge plantation, trying to maintain crops, and feed all slaves and staff for Iron wood plantation and keep things going while the Master is away at war.

A relationship between Ruth and Lydia built on trust and friendship. An incident they have in common forged their trust in each other. Lydia rescued Ruth from an evil man. Ruth came to live on Ironwood Plantation, a sanctuary for both women. This could've been a relationship that happen during slavery. It only takes one person to step forward to do good.

I read lots of civil war books, some are series. I sat down to start this book after dinner and my Husband found me still reading when he came downstairs to go to the office. He just rolled his eyes, with a smile. I said "Can't stop now the plantation has been taken over by the enemy."Have a good day honey. I'm ready for book 2. Thank You! What a fantastic book!

I had wanted to read this book for some time, not sure why I kept putting it off. So happy I finally downloaded it. I enjoyed this book it had sadness that comes with this time period, one of my favorites but also showcased love and hope.

I really enjoyed this book. It takes place during the civil war. It is a historical fiction with clean romance. The characters are likable and easy to identify with. It held my attention and I never felt that it was dragging. This was first experience with this author and I look forward to reading more of her novels

The Whistle Walk was a very good Civil War novel. I truly loved and can not wait for the next book. The story was exceptionally breath taking. I was amazed at all of the interaction of the characters in the book. I would recommend this book to my family and friends. I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.

Love the historical time period, Christian themes, multicultural approach to primary characters. I thought the dialect of the enslaved characters was inconsistent. Editors could have done a better job. I found several mistakes.

Enjoyed this read mostly. There was a greater expectation than what I received. Several times I wanted to put it down but persevered to the end. A bit stiff but a compelling story line. Will try another from this author.

Well written and great characters along with a love story. A little predictable but still a good story. I read it in less than a day. Very hard to put down. The bonds of friendship and love between both slave and mistress and husband and wife were endearing and heartwarming. Looking forward to next visit to Ironwood Plantation!

The Whistle Walk is a wonderful story. Although there is some romance in it,the story is mostly about Lydia and Ruth. Their friendship changed each other and the world around them. I enjoyed it greatly. Please try this wonderful clean book. You will not regret it.

I loved everything about this book. Loved every character and the story. I can't wait to read the next one. Please Ms. McGee write more about these people. I promise to read each and every one. So glad I found this gem.

I could not put this down. Absolutely riveting and just pulls you in. The characters were developed flawlessly and so believable. I could relate totally to them. Will look for more from this talented author.

I loved this book. It was beautifully written and the characters had depth. It was hard to put down. I can hardly wait to read the next book. The hardships of the characters was artfully shared by the author.

Loved this book, couldn't put it down. The author draws you in and makes you feel like you are there. I love how she blends the lives and experiences of the characters and makes it not only real, but applicable to today.

From start to finish this story kept me interested. The history part of slavery and loyalty from mistress to the smallest slave on the plantation was nicely interweaved. I'am looking forward to the next book in this series.

Loved this book, couldn't put it down. The author draws you in and makes you feel like you are there. I love how she blends the lives and experiences of the characters and makes it not only real, but applicable to today.

From start to finish this story kept me interested. The history part of slavery and loyalty from mistress to the smallest slave on the plantation was nicely interweaved. I'am looking forward to the next book in this series.