Review by anua24060 -- The Prodigy Slave, Book One: Jour...

[Anusha Thatavarthi]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Prodigy Slave, Book One: Journey to Winter Garden" by Londyn Skye.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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The Prodigy Slave, Book One: Journey to Winter Garden by Londyn Skye is a historical romance. Lily is born to a slave mother and a slave-master father. When she is nine, she is forcefully separated from her mother and is sold in a slave auction. Lily starts her life as a house slave in Jesse- her new master’s house. But Lily has an uncanny ability. She can remember every note Jesse’s wife has played on their piano and play it back. She keeps her talent a secret and practices on the piano whenever she is alone. Then one day, Jesse’s youngest son James enters Lily’s life and the children soon become best friends. An unforeseen incident separates the pair and James grows cold towards her. He is sent to medical school soon after that.

Now, after six years, James returns home colder than ever. He belittles Lily at every chance he gets. With an excuse that breaks Lily’s heart, James convinces his father to take Lily to Ohio. But there is an unforeseen surprise waiting for Lily there. Why does James want to take Lily to Ohio? Why is he cold with her? What are the secrets James is holding? And will their love ever be back?

This book- on one hand, depicts the dire conditions of slaves in the nineteenth century. It talks about the inhumane treatment of African-American people. On the other hand, it is an amazing love story of Lily and James. The childhood friendship between Lily and James shows how children never see color and race to love someone. The subsequent coldness of James shows how society and adults pressurize and fill children’s minds with hate. Lily is a strong and inspiring character. Her journey from a slave who fears even to talk loud, to an assertive woman who can stand for herself is astounding. James is your average historical romance hero- ruggedly handsome, someone who hides his love in his heart and is fiercely protective of what is his. His genuine love for Lily makes him lovable despite all his little flaws.

The thing I liked the most about the book is how real the characters are. All characters have their own intricate backstory, accents, and attires, which makes it easy to empathize with them. I also like how the author has added some rules from the slavery act at the beginning of every chapter, which helps readers to understand unfamiliar terms in the story. Although the perspectives change a lot of times from one character to the other, it is easy to understand because of their unique voices.

There is nothing I disliked about this book. I found very few and negligible errors. There are racial slur and profanity. There are erotic scenes, but they are not too graphic. The plot is unpredictable and kept me reading until the end. The ending is a major cliffhanger and now I am eagerly waiting for the sequel.

I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars because it is a well-written, well-edited, and entertaining book. I recommend it to readers who like historical fiction and romance. I recommend it only to a mature audience because of the erotic scenes.

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The Prodigy Slave, Book One: Journey to Winter Garden
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[Raluca_Mihaila]

It seems like a great and educational read. Congratulations for this insightful review!

[Honest-reviewer]

I’ve read this book and I enjoyed it. I totally agree with your points and rating. I’m also waiting to read the sequel of this. Great review!

[Sararob06]

I read most of this book but couldn’t finish it, just wasn’t for me. Glad you felt differently!

[Anusha Thatavarthi]

It seems like a great and educational read. Congratulations for this insightful review!

Thank you!

[Anusha Thatavarthi]

I’ve read this book and I enjoyed it. I totally agree with your points and rating. I’m also waiting to read the sequel of this. Great review!

Thank you!

[Anusha Thatavarthi]

I read most of this book but couldn’t finish it, just wasn’t for me. Glad you felt differently!

Yes, it drags at some places but the ending is worth it. Thank you for commenting!

[Mtibza eM]

I also read this book and I also loved it. Thank for the review.

[Noelle770]

There seems to be a lot of emotion in this book. Stealing a child from her mother is sure to be very emotional. Great review

[Nqobile Mashinini Tshabalala]

I found the cover book's illustrations to be fascinating and have been contemplating reading it. After reading your review, I am definitely adding it to my "Want To Read" shelf. Great review.

[Justine Ocsebio]

Nice review! This was an enjoyable read for me as well. Lily’s character development is remarkable.

[kalgaonkarsnehal]

Loved this book! I read all three volumes since I couldn't stop at the first cone, considering the cliffhanger at the end of the first one. Great job on the review!! I loved Lily and William's chemistry.