Once in a Blood Moon
Heaven Hill Plantation, upriver from Georgetown, South Carolina, 1807: Sixteen-year-old Alexandra Degambia walks a tightrope stretched between her parents' ambitions. Her father, a prosperous planter, wants to preserve the heritage of his African ancestors. But her mother, who can pass for white, seeks to distance herself from her African roots and position herself in the elite society of wealthy free-women-of-color.
Alexandra dreams of establishing her own place in the world as an accomplished violinist. She assumes her talent and her family's wealth will pave her way to success.
When her ambitions spiral into a life-or-death struggle, Alexandra learns that sometimes destiny has its own plans.
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Become an affiliateKirkus Review: Alexandra is a tenacious heroine who's easy to root for, and the author elegantly articulates her precarious position between white and black society. Overall, this novel explores issues of equality and personal freedom in thought-provoking ways.
Sharp writing, an original plot, and a strong female protagonist make for an engrossing read.
"Devastation, courage, and inspiration hallmark Once In A Blood Moon, a remarkable historical novel from author Dorothea Hubble Bonneau. This talented writer reminds us all of the fragility and the strength of the human spirit. Losing her life of privilege and being sold into slavery forces Alexandra Degambia onto a path of self-discovery and reinvention in early 1800's America. The young woman endures soul-shattering heartbreak in her quest to survive, discovers unexpected allies, and inspires with her strength and dignity as she reclaims her identity as a free person of color, a gifted musician, and a teacher of her African heritage. This tale of desperation, injustice and courage is a much needed addition to our grasp of our nation's history. A 5-star reading experience. Highly recommend!"
Laura Taylor 6-Time Romantic Times Winner