Mountain Laurel

Started 2004, April 10<br />Finished 2019, December 31<br />Release date: 2020, September 1<br />Dates reflect how long this book took to research, write, wait for a publishing home, edit, and release. <br /><br />[6/28/20] I want to share about Mountain Laurel's very long journey to publication, and my hope for this book. Although this will be my seventh published historical novel set during the 18th century, it's actually the first I wrote. Because I came to it largely ignorant of the time period (I couldn't have told you the year the Revolutionary War started), and for other reasons that had nothing to do with my woeful lack of knowledge of my own nation's history, it took me nearly five years to research and write Mountain Laurel (2004-2009). By the time I'd finished I felt as if I'd given myself a history degree. <br /><br />That early research consisted of reading hundreds of books on topics ranging from 18th century life (what people wore, ate, lived in, did for work and play), the history of Colonial North America in general and North Carolina specifically... to more specialized topics like plantation economy, slave laws, the Underground Railroad, Eli Whitney’s cotton gin, the Dismal Swamp Canal, the Scottish Jacobite Rising, Scottish immigration to North Carolina, how to construct a dovetail joint, treat malaria, and fire a black powder rifle. I talked to an acquaintance who was stalked by a mountain lion, and to my own mother who picked the worms off tobacco plants when she was a little girl. I watched every documentary and YouTube video on the 18th century I could find, spent hundreds of hours Googling subjects and historical figures, and took a memorable road trip through western North Carolina, visiting the story’s setting. <br /><br />Then I took a couple more years to whittle down a very overwritten manuscript which, after reading it, convinced my agent to sign me as a client. Then for nearly a decade we could not sell this book. We wondered why. We speculated. We set it aside. But we held onto our passion for the story. A little over a year ago we decided to give it one more try, and Tyndale made us an offer. <br /><br />Now here's a thing about timing. Mine and God's. For years I thought Mountain Laurel would be my debut novel. Obviously God had other ideas. He chose it to be my seventh, and for it to reach readers in 2020. Until a few weeks ago I presumed it was because I would need to write five more novels before I finally wrote my sixth, The King's Mercy, which perfectly sets up Mountain Laurel (two characters in TKM (Alex and Jemma) visit the plantation, Mountain Laurel, some 50 years prior to the eponymous book’s setting). I still believe that was part of the delay in timing. But now I believe there's more to it. <br /><br />In all my books you will find characters who have, willingly or not, crossed a line between cultures and changed because of this experience. Mountain Laurel might be the deepest I’ve ever gone with this theme of transformation via a deepening of empathy for those who are in some way different. How aware we are becoming of a need for such empathy in our own lives these days! My heart as a storyteller has always been to work myself under the skin and into the heart and mind of a life I haven’t lived, to feel the suffering of wounds I haven’t taken, to rejoice in triumphs I haven’t known. In other words, to stretch my human empathy as far as it will go across the pages of my novels. No matter if that character from whose point of view I’m telling the story is a Native American man, an African American child, or a white woman who sees the world through the lens of her 18th century upbringing. None of them is me. None of them think like me. Yet with each one I endeavor to see with their eyes, feel with their heart, and re-embrace the light and truth of the good news of Jesus dying on the cross in humanity's place through their specific set of needs, longings, and hopes. Each human being who hears His call and answers it reflects a facet of His nature that is unique and precious, and it's to our benefit to bend our empathy as far as it will go in understanding the heart of a brother or sister who looks different, speaks differently, or has had an upbringing unlike our own. The enrichment flows both ways and is eternal. <br /><br />My awareness of this need expanded in the writing of Mountain Laurel, and is expanding still. My prayer is that yours is too, and that the journey you take when you read Mountain Laurel will be another small step toward that end. I stand back in some wonder at the timing of this book releasing this of all years. Be assured that, as with all my novels, healing and hope are woven through the sometimes unflinching rawness of these pages. I invite you on this journey of transformation with me and the characters, Ian Cameron and Seona. And more than ever before I wish you happy reading. ~Lori

When you come across an author of this caliber, you rush to read every book they've written. I have been an admirer and vocal supporter of Lori Benton ever since reading The Wood's Edge (2015). <br />One thing that endears me to her is how she consistently pens sympathetic characters who have to stumble down the wrong path in order to find their way—The Way. Often times, as it was with Ian Cameron, self-reliance and fleshly desires lead to heartache and forced humility. The destruction left in the wake of Ian's choices frequently made me wonder how his world could ever be set right. As I read, I allowed myself to imagine each character's motives and actions in light of the times. This process was made possible by the author's skill blending relevant historical details with emotionally captivating scenes.<br /><br />So far, I've only mentioned Ian but I should also mention Seona, the woman of mixed heritage who wins his affections as well as my two favorite secondary characters, Lily and Judith. I liked Seona from the start. In some ways she's naive, yet in others, she has experienced too much darkness for her age. Despite this, she possesses an indomitable spirit and effervescent hope. As for Lily and Judith, I caution readers not to mistake their meekness for weakness because underneath their calm demeanor beats the heart of resilient women with incredible faith.<br /><br />The truth is we all long for stories about people who are flawed and fallen because we see ourselves in them and when they triumph we celebrate their victory. I continue to read Benton's works because I relish such stories. Once you read Mountain Laurel, you'll understand why I'm such a fan of this author and you'll join me in waiting for the conclusion of the Kindred duology. There is more of Ian and Seona's story that needs to be told!<br /><br />I received this book from the publisher through the NetGalley review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

It is 1793, and Ian Cameron has returned to Mountain Laurel, his uncle’s plantation in North Carolina, where he spent time as a boy. Now a grown man, he is being groomed as his uncle’s heir. When Ian sees Seona for the first time, he is immediately captivated by her green eyes and does not realize she is enslaved to his kin. When he learns of Seona’s hidden talent as an artist, he encourages it and finds ways for her to hide it from his cruel step-aunt, Lucinda. Lucinda does not believe slaves should read, write, or do anything to take time away from their chores. The story is told from the alternating viewpoints of Ian and Seona, who has hidden her art all her life. “Every slave has a secret. This one is mine.” As time progresses, Ian finds himself conflicted between his growing feelings for Seona, his loyalty to his family, and his responsibility to all those enslaved on the plantation.<br /><br />This heart-rending book from Benton shows us all the horrors of slavery. In addition to the beatings, rapes, terror, and torture, it shows the true effects of taking away someone’s will and refusing to let them have any dreams or desires. It shows how some people of that time watched slaves being paraded down the road in chains, did nothing, and then went to church on Sunday. Lori Benton writes about this as if she were there, laying bare the pain of someone else owning your body and your soul. However, faith and the desire for redemption are also present, especially in the quiet faith of the slave Lily and the redemption Ian desperately seeks.<br /><br />This is the first book in the Kindred series, and I cannot wait to see these characters return.<br /><br />I received a free copy of this book from the publishers via Historical Novels Review Magazine. My opinions are my own.

Every year, there are two or three book releases I look forward to more than any other...and Lori Benton's books are ALWAYS on that list. She is one of my very, very, verrrrry favorite authors and I truly believe she is one of the most gifted storytellers writing today. I'm really not exaggerating when I say every one of her books has felt like a masterpiece to me. So needless to say, I was so ridiculously and excitedly impatient to read Mountain Laurel...and now that I have, I really don't know how to review it in any way that does it any kind of justice! But I'll try my best...<br /><br />As always with Benton's books, the writing of this novel is exquisite and the historical detail is rich and vivid. Both Ian and Seona captured my heart so quickly. One of the things I loved about Ian in particular is what a perfect mix he is of noble intentions and, at times, flawed actions. I felt his moments of desperation so deeply as I read—as well as his joy and Seona's long-suffering hope. I felt so much! And to me, that's the very best sign of an amazing book—the feelings it evokes. The emotional layering in Mountain Laurel is superb.<br /><br />I also loved the plot. It went places I absolutely did not expect and took twists and turns that kept me captivated page after page. It was both heart-rending and tender, and by the end I was caught in that wonderful sort of reader exhaustion and exhilaration that comes from having journeyed with the characters. The forbidden romance, the moments of desolate hardship, Seona's gentle strength and Ian's unending desire to make things right...all of it made for a story that swept me away entirely and completely. And woven throughout is a spiritual journey—especially on Ian's part—that stirred my soul in a way I was (and still am) thinking about weeks after reaching The End. <br /><br />This is the first in a two-book series, so I'm thrilled to know the story will continue! And I've heard we might see a familiar and much-beloved face from a past Lori Benton book!! (Joseph Tames-His Horse!!!! ???) <br /><br />One last note: This story takes place during an especially harsh time in our country's history, which meant it wasn't necessarily easy to read at times. But I appreciated that the author didn't shy away from portraying the ugly realities of that time period, including slavery, but also that she didn't glorify or just lightly gloss over it. She handled it deftly and in a way that personally impacted me.

Wow. Lori Benton is an extremely talented author (one of the very best living today), but this book also proves how brave she is. The historical context of North Carolina in the 1790s is a rather painful one, but with unflinching detail, Lori has given us a story of slavery and redemption, bondage and freedom, of slow corruption and of spiritual transformation. I had a hard time rooting for the hero in this book because of his perspective and choices, but taken in the world in which he lived, it's easier to understand him. One of the most moving scenes in the novel for me came when he finally recognizes his brokenness and asks one of the slaves to tell him about his Jesus. Seona, as a heroine, comes across to me as reluctant for us to get to know her. This fits with her characterization as a slave who has been trained to hide true emotions and thoughts. This is not to say I didn't like Seona. I really did. She simply seems cautious about letting readers in for a while before she opens up. Flaws and all, I couldn't help but ache for these very real characters as I read their story. Being human means we make mistakes, and even the noblest of intentions can have unintended consequences. How we carry on after stumbling is still, always, up to us.<br /><br />I can't wait for the next book to continue this family's story, and I really hope we get to know Judith better. She is stronger than she seems.

Lori Benton's writing is beautiful and it's clear she has researched the time period and setting. I am glad there will be a sequel (Shiloh) as there is a lot left to be sorted out.

I am impressed every time I read a book by this author.<br />Each new book I read by Lori Benton becomes my favorite by her and I think to myself she couldn't possibly top her last book but somehow she manages to do it.<br />The research she puts into each book is incredible and I was interested in reading more about her research in the author notes in the back of the book.<br />Mountain Laurel is a book written from the heart, it's the good,the bad and the ugly of the time period. While it may not always be pretty it resonates true to the time period. Just fantastic . I highly recommend Mountain Laurel.<br /><br />Published September 1st 2020 by Tyndale House Publishers.<br />I was given a complimentary copy. Thank you.<br />All opinions expressed are my own.

Mountain Laurel is the first book I've read by Lori Benton, although I've heard wonderful things about her previous books and have a couple on my TBR.<br /><br />I didn't really have any expectations for Mountain Laurel. I started it curious to see what the story would bring...I feel like it was one that slowly sucks you in and takes you on a journey unlike any other.<br /><br />The characters were deep and felt realistic; they made questionable choices and had some challenging moments. The ending left me slightly confused and I'm eager to read the next book to see what happens next.<br /><br />All in all, Mountain Laurel was difficult to read in some ways and not always a happy read, but I really enjoyed it.<br /><br />Note: this story does contain some content that I wasn't a fan of and I only recommend it to mature readers.<br /><br />*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

Lori Benton has penned an expertly crafted tale. I cherished every word and emotion as the magic of its prose whisked me away to frontier America. Benton does not shy away from the tough subjects of right and wrong, handling the issues of slavery and immorality with grace. Mostly, it chronicles the spiritual journey of Ian Cameron, as he comes to grasps with his role as his uncle's heir on Mountain Laurel. <br /><br />Ms. Benton crafts characters who wound their way into my heart. With each page, I uncovered layers of truth, revealing grace and mercy throughout. I am so grateful that this is the first in a two book series, so that I can spend more time with characters that populated the pages of Mountain Laurel.<br /><br />I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Whew, this was a rough one! Lori Benton is in my top three favorite authors, so I snapped up the audiobook in order to listen to it while I travel. I just finished it. <br /><br />Shaking my head. What to say?<br /><br />Was it a bad story? Certainly not! <br /><br />Was the writing sub-par? Oh my, no! <br /><br />Was the flow or plot difficult to follow? Meh, once in a while until she takes the reader down the road to background explanations. <br /><br />Was it enjoyable? Hm... this is where I struggled. <br /><br />I had a hard time setting this book down because I expected wonderful outcomes around every corner. But bad things seemed to happen...lots. What kind of sweet outcome could there be without coming off hokey? <br /><br />Really bad choices were made by several main characters and I cringed when, of course, repercussions resulted. Other characters were just this side of evil, laying waste to unsuspecting innocents. <br /><br />I wanted to shake a few main characters and show them the right way to do things. Then I thought of the many mistakes I’ve made because of wrong choices, and I settled in to see how Ms. Benton made things right. Thankfully our God has a way of getting our attention, and He offers reconciliation. <br /><br />Was there an ending that made me sit back and sigh? Not really. But it was the right way to end this story.<br /><br />Perhaps not my favorite book by this author, but it’s a matter of the feelings evoked while reading it, not a matter of her writing!<br /><br />************ ************ ************<br /><br />I do this a lot after I finish a review. I think about parts of the story I may have puzzled over during the reading. Here's the answer to one, but to find out why this puzzled me, you’ll have to read the book. ?:<br /><br /><b>Corvids</b> (Wikipedia)<br />Several members of the corvids or crow family, such as ravens, can mimic human speech. The best talking crows may be the ones found in captivity at zoos and wildlife centers.<br /><br />Another thing I want to say. Be sure to check out Lori Benton's own review of this book on Goodreads. It’s terrific and helpful for me in understanding what I just finished.