The Diary of Essie Lassiter
Original price was: $14.95.$10.95Current price is: $10.95.
The Diary of Essie Lassiter was an authentic read, with a strong female narrator blazing a fiery path in a harsh new world. Her voice was as captivating as her journey, and the world created around her was vibrant with the sights, sounds and smells of colonial life. – Reedsy Discovery
In the runup to the Revolutionary War, a young English midwife is unsuspectingly thrown into the London Debtor’s Prison. With no prospect of retiring her debt, she becomes indentured to Aquila Wright, a wealthy mill owner in the British colony of Maryland. After saving Aquila’s life and earning his admiration and trust, Essie faces her biggest challenge when she is asked to start the colony’s first hospital.
The Diary of Essie Lassiter is a startling, first-person account of one woman’s improbable journey from prison to prominence.
ASIN : B0DRYVHXZC
Publisher : Komodo Dragon, LLC (December 31, 2024)
Language : English
Paperback : 240 pages
ISBN-10 : 1733889868
ISBN-13 : 978-1733889865
Item Weight : 12.6 ounces
Dimensions : 6 x 0.6 x 9 inches
Greg Tutino –
Enjoyable Read
[...]Follow along with Essie Lassiter as she overcomes many obstacles on a unforeseen path to America in the late 1700’s. It is a great read and will leaving you wanting more.
Sheila –
A Young Woman’s Challenges in 18th Century America
[...]The Diary of Essie Lassiter a historical fiction novel that was an exciting journey through history. Essie is a very strong woman who lived through difficult times. In this Novel we experience her thoughts, emotions and worries first hand. It was a great read!
Greg Harmis –
A Heroine’s Story
[...]From the 1st page you are drawn into history. Set against the backdrop of pre-revolutionary war America it was easy to get swept up in the trials and tribulations of a strong, intelligent woman. Weaving together fictional with non-fictional characters gives a sense of authenticity that has you turning pages to see what happens next. I was so engrossed I finished the novel in one day. A great read!
Rebecca –
Great read!
[...]I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book! It was a deviation from the genre that I usually read (true crime/mystery) and I am so glad that I came out of my comfort zone. Your writing transported me directly into Essie’s life.With this being a diary, I truly believe that all the stories/scenes are necessary. It makes it complete and feel like this was a real diary from the time.
BJS –
Highly recommended
[...]A very enjoyable and historically accurate adventure through the eyes of a true heroine. Sam Polakoff shows off his amazing range as an author. I’m looking forward to the next installment.
JA –
Interesting
[...]and informative while immersing you in history, women’s plight and 1700’s medical treatments. I look forward to the next book but this story did have a satisfying conclusion.
David Jennings –
An Excellent Historical Adventure
[...]From the very first chapter to the closing sentences, The Diary of Essie Lassiter by Sam Polakoff captivated me with its rich narrative and compelling historical backdrop. This novel is a remarkable journey through the trials and tribulations of a woman who faces unimaginable loss in England and bravely, though not planned, makes her way to Colonial America and begins rebuilding her life.Essie Lassiter emerges as a strong and resilient protagonist, embodying the spirit of a unique time in our country’s history. As she navigates her new life in America, she encounters some of history’s greatest heroes, adding layers of authenticity and depth to her story. Polakoff skillfully intertwines Essie’s personal struggles with the broader historical events of the era, creating a vivid tapestry that kept me riveted.The pacing of the novel is expertly handled, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment. The dialogue feels natural and engaging, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the characters’ lives. Polakoff’s descriptions of early America are equally impressive, painting a vivid picture of the landscape, the challenges faced by settlers, and the vibrant culture of the time.What stands out in this historical fiction novel is the perfect blend of action, conflict, and emotional depth. The presence of both villains and heroes adds tension and excitement, making Essie’s journey all the more thrilling. Each twist and turn kept me on the edge of my seat, eagerly turning pages to see what happens next.I find myself eagerly awaiting the follow-up novel, curious to see where Essie’s journey will take her next. Polakoff has crafted a memorable tale that resonates long after the last page is turned.
The Serial Reader –
A superb premise and compelling historical elements
[...]I was pulled in by the exceptional premise in The Diary of Essie Lassiter, the first book of Sam Polakoff’s trilogy—a woman who loses her husband and is forced to take on his debts while navigating a cruel and male-dominated world.The story is set in the 1770s, beginning with the tragic tale of Essie, a young widow whose life is ripped apart by smallpox and debt, leading her to prison. The writing is crisp, and the world of Wickhamshire is uniquely depicted, including the smells, the sites, and the locales. I felt Essie’s pain, losses, and determination to survive and succeed. I experienced the claustrophobia of her cottage and the horrors of the prison. Essie’s grit is uniquely explored in this tale, and I was keen on discovering what becomes of her as she takes on a precarious role in life and fights for independence.The characters, particularly the stubborn but lovable Penny and the enigmatic Aquilaare cleverly sculpted. The pacing kept me engaged, and I was eager to know what would happen next. Polakoff doesn’t just tell a story; he paints a vivid historical picture with well-drawn characters and fascinating relationship dynamics. It was hard to put this book down.