The Indenture of Ivy O'Neill
Not every immigrant sailed willingly to America...
Ivy O'Neill's idyllic childhood ends in disaster in 1690 when red-coated soldiers cross the Celtic Sea to invade Ireland. English soldiers attack and burn her family home, and her baby brother is killed in the raid.
The family flees their home and ends up living in an abandoned house.
An unscrupulous English ship captain kidnaps Ivy and her brother Sean and takes them to Maryland colony in America, where they are sold into indentured servitude.
Ivy must call upon all her wits and strength just to survive, first the perilous sea voyage and then in a land seething with anti-Catholic, anti-Irish prejudice, where she is falsely accused of murder.
The Indenture of Ivy O'Neill is an immersive story of courage, the meaning of family, and the transformative power of immigration.
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The Indenture of Ivy O'Neil by Diane Helentjaris is a fine work of historical fiction that brings American colonial history to colorful life, warts and all. She gives voice to those who, like the African slaves, have been left off the pages of the history books, but whose labors are what truly built the nation. I found this book a riveting read." Charles Ray, author.
"This historical novel is a one-sit read. Settle down for a good read without a care in the world beyond the Irish lass, Ivy O'Neill, as she becomes an indentured servant in the New World." Lenora Rain-Lee Good, author, The Bride's Gate and Other Assorted Writings
"A fun, engrossing read recounted in lovely language and imagery. Helentjaris presents a picture of Colonial Maryland tobacco plantation life and the gruelling hardships of a young woman trying to navigate a life she did not choose." Marcella Fierro, MD.
The Indenture of Ivy O'Neill by Diane Helentjaris is a well-written historical novel. In 1690 Ireland, British soldiers come and turn Ivy O'Neill's life upside down. The author has researched this period well and captured the essence of Ireland and Maryland with fine details, painting a realistic world filled with adventure, danger, and love. I loved the ending and didn't want this story to end. I highly recommend this masterfully written story! Five out of five stars!
-Patty Apostolides, MFA, Author and Director HWGW.
