Haley Whitehall

When war broke out between the states, all Ethan wanted was to fight the war of Northern aggression. Against the better judgment of his parents, he enlisted in the Georgia regiment forming near his family’s farm. Not wanting to be separated from his young master, Ethan’s dog Sam went along and became the regiment mascot. This story follows the two as they learn to become soldiers and go off to their first battle in Manassas. In this short but riveting story, both Ethan and Sam learn what exactly it means to be a soldier fighting for his country and home, and, more important, what war really is and the importance of love for fellow creatures, human and canine, and loyalty between the same in the greater scheme of life. The story presents a great tale of a youth’s movement to adulthood and of how important loyalty, even that of a faithful dog, can be. Though short, this story is very well written and brings out several theses of love of country and home, the need/desire to protect it, the devotion between a boy/man and his dog and the realities of war. I particularly enjoyed the way the author varied the story, having one section narrated by Ethan, followed by one narrated by Sam. Though a dog, Sam has as good and understanding and feeling for the realities of war. I also found it interesting to watch Ethan grow from a young boy with pictures of the glory of war grow into a man who now understood the realities of it. The portrayal of training, Army life during that time, travel to the battle with all its built up excitement (this is the first battle for Ethan and Sam after all, the painful realization of what is really going on as they endure the battlefield and its realities are superb. I recommend this story to anyone who loves dogs and appreciates their loyalty and compassion for their masters. Also, anyone who enjoys reading a great heartfelt story will love this one. I received this from Library Thing to read and review.… (lisätietoja)

Midnight Caller by Haley Whitehall is a sensual novella that I didn't want to see end. Her story telling gift had me turning the pages, from start to finish, in one sitting.
Set in 1865, the story begins with Emma Bennetts' husband dying in a carriage accident. This sets her free and releases her from the loveless marriage she had endured. Emma decides to enjoy her freedom before wanting to settle down with a husband and to have a family.
Taking the advice of a prominent socialite she is acquainted with, Emma hires a black man as her lover and to fulfill her most intimate desires. Frederick works as a roustabout by day and a prostitute at night.
After their first night together Emma and Frederick become enraptured with each other. He knows better than to fall in love with a white woman and backs away to keep them both safe. How now can he protect Emma from the detestable Mr. Hawthorne who wants her to become his wife.
A captivating story of forbidden love and I look forward to more by this author.… (lisätietoja)