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Quint Chronicles
The Girl from the Sugar Plantation
An unputdownable story of a woman in search of the truth, the man she falls in love with, and the devastation of the Second World War.
1934, Guyana. All her life, Mary Grace has wanted to know the truth about who her parents really are. As the mixed-race daughter of two white plantation owners, her childhood has been clouded by whispered rumours, and the circumstances of her birth have been kept a closely guarded secret...
Aunt Winnie is the only person Mary Grace can confide in. Feeling lost and lonely, her place in society uncertain, Mary Grace decides to forge her own path in the world. And she finds herself unexpectedly falling for charming and affluent Jock Campbell, a planter with revolutionary ideas.
But, with the onset of the Second World War, their lives will be changed forever. And Mary Grace and Jock will be faced with the hardest decision of all – to fight for freedom or to follow their hearts...
An utterly compelling and evocative story about the heart-breaking choices men and women had to make during a time of unimaginable change. Perfect for fans of The Secret Wife and Island of Secrets .
What readers are saying about The Girl From The Sugar Plantation
‘I loved, loved, loved this. An easy 5 stars. One of my top reads of this year.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘I absolutely adore Sharon Maas's books - she is one of my favourite authors, someone whose stories give me hours of reading pleasure. And this wonderful book is one of her best! I loved this book from start to finish, savouring every word, the author's beautiful prose. An evocative, powerful story of a family and a country. LOVED every word and I absolutely cannot wait for more from this amazing author.’ Renita D’Silva, 5 stars
‘The Girl from the Sugar Plantation is a beautifully written story that has it all. I whizzed through this beautiful book, unable to put it down. A wonderful and heartrending story with lovely characters. Very highly recommended.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘This is a powerful book of love, relationships and trust What great writing from a great author... Five Stars!’ Stardust Book Reviews, 5 stars
‘I practically read this book in one sitting. I became invested in this story from the opening line and it held my attention to the very last. I highly recommend this book, not only to lovers of historical fiction, but anyone who just loves to read!’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘This novel again read like a film, the setting is stunningly vivid and the colours build up to form quite a picture of history and culture. The plot is nicely done, steady and builds to a climax of twists and secrets. The Girl from the Sugar Plantation is a fascinating read!’ The Book Trail, 5 stars
'The gripping, evocative and poignant story of a young girl's difficult transition into womanhood amidst a time of turmoil.’ Mrs Blog’s Books
‘Loved it!!! Really absorbing story... Sharon Maas weaves a fine tale and remains one of my go-to authors.’ MetLineReader
1934, Guyana. All her life, Mary Grace has wanted to know the truth about who her parents really are. As the mixed-race daughter of two white plantation owners, her childhood has been clouded by whispered rumours, and the circumstances of her birth have been kept a closely guarded secret...
Aunt Winnie is the only person Mary Grace can confide in. Feeling lost and lonely, her place in society uncertain, Mary Grace decides to forge her own path in the world. And she finds herself unexpectedly falling for charming and affluent Jock Campbell, a planter with revolutionary ideas.
But, with the onset of the Second World War, their lives will be changed forever. And Mary Grace and Jock will be faced with the hardest decision of all – to fight for freedom or to follow their hearts...
An utterly compelling and evocative story about the heart-breaking choices men and women had to make during a time of unimaginable change. Perfect for fans of The Secret Wife and Island of Secrets .
What readers are saying about The Girl From The Sugar Plantation
‘I loved, loved, loved this. An easy 5 stars. One of my top reads of this year.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘I absolutely adore Sharon Maas's books - she is one of my favourite authors, someone whose stories give me hours of reading pleasure. And this wonderful book is one of her best! I loved this book from start to finish, savouring every word, the author's beautiful prose. An evocative, powerful story of a family and a country. LOVED every word and I absolutely cannot wait for more from this amazing author.’ Renita D’Silva, 5 stars
‘The Girl from the Sugar Plantation is a beautifully written story that has it all. I whizzed through this beautiful book, unable to put it down. A wonderful and heartrending story with lovely characters. Very highly recommended.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘This is a powerful book of love, relationships and trust What great writing from a great author... Five Stars!’ Stardust Book Reviews, 5 stars
‘I practically read this book in one sitting. I became invested in this story from the opening line and it held my attention to the very last. I highly recommend this book, not only to lovers of historical fiction, but anyone who just loves to read!’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘This novel again read like a film, the setting is stunningly vivid and the colours build up to form quite a picture of history and culture. The plot is nicely done, steady and builds to a climax of twists and secrets. The Girl from the Sugar Plantation is a fascinating read!’ The Book Trail, 5 stars
'The gripping, evocative and poignant story of a young girl's difficult transition into womanhood amidst a time of turmoil.’ Mrs Blog’s Books
‘Loved it!!! Really absorbing story... Sharon Maas weaves a fine tale and remains one of my go-to authors.’ MetLineReader
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 16, 2017
325 people are currently reading
277 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Maas
23 books340 followersSharon Maas was born in Georgetown, Guyana in 1951, and a sense of adventure has followed her around the world. In 1971 she spent a year backpacking around South America, followed by a few months with pioneering friends in the Guyana rainforest, followed by an overland trip to India, followed by a year in a Hindu Ashram.
She settled in Germany where she married, studied, worked, and raised children.
Officially retired, she continues to write from her new home in Ireland.
Her first novel was published by HarperCollins in 1999, followed by two more in 2001 and 2002. At present, she has 10 published works with the digital publisher Bookouture.
She has one self-published work, a retelling of the magnificent Indian epic Mahabharata: a project of love that took her over 30 years to "get right", written under the pen name S. Aruna.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
October 21, 2017
5☆ Simply Perfect!
The Girl From The Sugar Plantation is the third and final book in the Series.
However my first book by Sharon Maas.
I had no problem settling straight into the story. In fact from the first few pages I was drawn in and hooked!
I'm seriously asking myself why is it that I have only just found out about Sharon Maas and her Captivating writing.
So if like me you are a newbie... I strongly suggest reading Sharon's Books.
The Girl From The Sugar Plantation is captivating, highly moving, a Poignant, evocative and Compelling read, full of history, which had me reading till the early hours.
I was blown away by how much I was effected by the story and the how Sharon made me feel. Sharon transported me to a time where there was cultural differences and social injustices and prejudices, which was powerfully written and left me thinking.
Young Grace is adopted. Grace is mixed-race and Growing up the wrong 'Skin Colour' to her parents she is subjected to lots of abuse. Her parents own the Sugar Plantation.
Her mother comes across as trying to protect Grace from being judged and picked on, but in turn she comes across as just worrying about her personal social stature.
Grace' s passion for music is a joy to see.
I loved Grace's determination and strength as she battles her mother, falls into a Forbidden love, tries to uncover the secrets and lies of her family and battles the cruel world.
I can't praise The Girl From The Sugar Plantation enough!
This really is a fantastic, emotional, evocative read. Full of secrets and lies, heartache, family, forbidden love.
From the very first page I knew this book was going to be special.
I urge you to pick up this book, you won't be disappointed!!!
A perfect read for lovers of Historical Fiction, romance, war time themes.
I received this book from the Publisher in exchange for a honest and fair review in which I voluntarily reviewed.
My Review is also on my blog website:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2017/1...
The Girl From The Sugar Plantation is the third and final book in the Series.
However my first book by Sharon Maas.
I had no problem settling straight into the story. In fact from the first few pages I was drawn in and hooked!
I'm seriously asking myself why is it that I have only just found out about Sharon Maas and her Captivating writing.
So if like me you are a newbie... I strongly suggest reading Sharon's Books.
The Girl From The Sugar Plantation is captivating, highly moving, a Poignant, evocative and Compelling read, full of history, which had me reading till the early hours.
I was blown away by how much I was effected by the story and the how Sharon made me feel. Sharon transported me to a time where there was cultural differences and social injustices and prejudices, which was powerfully written and left me thinking.
Young Grace is adopted. Grace is mixed-race and Growing up the wrong 'Skin Colour' to her parents she is subjected to lots of abuse. Her parents own the Sugar Plantation.
Her mother comes across as trying to protect Grace from being judged and picked on, but in turn she comes across as just worrying about her personal social stature.
Grace' s passion for music is a joy to see.
I loved Grace's determination and strength as she battles her mother, falls into a Forbidden love, tries to uncover the secrets and lies of her family and battles the cruel world.
I can't praise The Girl From The Sugar Plantation enough!
This really is a fantastic, emotional, evocative read. Full of secrets and lies, heartache, family, forbidden love.
From the very first page I knew this book was going to be special.
I urge you to pick up this book, you won't be disappointed!!!
A perfect read for lovers of Historical Fiction, romance, war time themes.
I received this book from the Publisher in exchange for a honest and fair review in which I voluntarily reviewed.
My Review is also on my blog website:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2017/1...
December 14, 2022
The last book in the Quint Chronicles which at the time of posting is available on Kindle Unlimited.
When I take a look over the series as a whole, I really liked the overarching plot and what this series is doing but the last two books weren't as strong as the first two in my opinion.
The characters all had the same voice and I felt they all merged into the same person.
I did enjoy the author's notes at the end. I was unaware of the history of the Bookers Prize and how that tied into the Booker Brothers and their sugar plantations in British Guiana (now Guyana).
Having now read the notes at the end and realising that some of the characters in these books are not fictional it has left me with a lot to think about and I'm sure I'll fall into the rabbit hole of the World Wide Web to understand more.
When I take a look over the series as a whole, I really liked the overarching plot and what this series is doing but the last two books weren't as strong as the first two in my opinion.
The characters all had the same voice and I felt they all merged into the same person.
I did enjoy the author's notes at the end. I was unaware of the history of the Bookers Prize and how that tied into the Booker Brothers and their sugar plantations in British Guiana (now Guyana).
Having now read the notes at the end and realising that some of the characters in these books are not fictional it has left me with a lot to think about and I'm sure I'll fall into the rabbit hole of the World Wide Web to understand more.
November 9, 2017
I have to say that I have thoroughly enjoyed The Quint Chronicles and I will really miss all the characters in the series, especially Winnie.
This book concentrates on Mary Grace, and her tragic and yet uplifting story. She grows up as a mixed-race daughter of two white people in Guyana. Obviously, questions are asked as she gets older and tries to figure out how this can be. What follows is a rather complicated book where a lot of things are not what they seem, but throughout it all, Grace remains strong, passionate and yet very caring. Her Aunt Winnie is her rock, and she is the matriarch of her family, a widow with seven sons.
There are a lot of cultural shifts and changes happening in Guyana at the time this book is set and to say that it is a tumultuous period in that country's history, is an understatement. What I like about this story is that the character of Jock Campbell was a real person, and the author has done a great job of melding fact with fiction.
I am really pretty sad that we have come to the end of this series because I have enjoyed it so much. I have laughed, cried and sighed along with the characters. All of them have added to the richness of this novel and the author has a wonderful gift of storytelling; she really makes you feel like you are right there.
Highly recommended from me, 4.5 stars.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
This book concentrates on Mary Grace, and her tragic and yet uplifting story. She grows up as a mixed-race daughter of two white people in Guyana. Obviously, questions are asked as she gets older and tries to figure out how this can be. What follows is a rather complicated book where a lot of things are not what they seem, but throughout it all, Grace remains strong, passionate and yet very caring. Her Aunt Winnie is her rock, and she is the matriarch of her family, a widow with seven sons.
There are a lot of cultural shifts and changes happening in Guyana at the time this book is set and to say that it is a tumultuous period in that country's history, is an understatement. What I like about this story is that the character of Jock Campbell was a real person, and the author has done a great job of melding fact with fiction.
I am really pretty sad that we have come to the end of this series because I have enjoyed it so much. I have laughed, cried and sighed along with the characters. All of them have added to the richness of this novel and the author has a wonderful gift of storytelling; she really makes you feel like you are right there.
Highly recommended from me, 4.5 stars.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
October 19, 2017
I’ve been in love with this wonderful series ever since I fell in love with the original cover for the first book, The Secret Life of Winnie Cox. The cover has now changed to go with the rest of the series, but I still prefer the original that shows George and Winnie holding hands, because of the emotions it stirred within me a couple of years ago. It is also one of my all-time favourite books.
Each time I start one of the books in The Quint Chronicles, there is a mix of excitement as well as concern that I won’t love it as much as the previous book. It took a few chapters to open my heart to this book, but it wasn’t long until I fell deeply in love with the story and characters all over again.
These books have taken me to a far off land, to another time, that feels nothing like the world I have grown up in. The experience is always a very overwhelmingly real and emotional one, but I just can’t get enough of it. The Girl from the Sugar Plantation is no different. The magic and power of music, the pain and pleasure of love, the destructive nature of secrets and lies all delved deep into my heart and I expect will stay there for some time. This is a powerful and emotional story that will melt even the coldest of hearts. I challenge you to enter the world of The Quint Chronicles and not fall in love.
Over the last two years I have watched Winnie go from a somewhat naive and reckless girl to a strong and wise woman. I have shared her happiness and cried many tears for her and those close to her. I’m going to really miss Winnie. Just the thought is making me feel tearful.
Although this book could be read as a standalone, it does give away things that happened in the previous books, hence me not mentioning anything about the plot. So if these books do appeal to you, I personally would recommend starting from the beginning so you can experience this powerful and wonderfully emotional family saga in the correct order.
The Secret Life of Winnie Cox
The Sugar Planter’s Daughter
The Girl from the Sugar Plantation
My review is also available on my blog here:
https://littlemissnosleep.wordpress.c...
Each time I start one of the books in The Quint Chronicles, there is a mix of excitement as well as concern that I won’t love it as much as the previous book. It took a few chapters to open my heart to this book, but it wasn’t long until I fell deeply in love with the story and characters all over again.
These books have taken me to a far off land, to another time, that feels nothing like the world I have grown up in. The experience is always a very overwhelmingly real and emotional one, but I just can’t get enough of it. The Girl from the Sugar Plantation is no different. The magic and power of music, the pain and pleasure of love, the destructive nature of secrets and lies all delved deep into my heart and I expect will stay there for some time. This is a powerful and emotional story that will melt even the coldest of hearts. I challenge you to enter the world of The Quint Chronicles and not fall in love.
Over the last two years I have watched Winnie go from a somewhat naive and reckless girl to a strong and wise woman. I have shared her happiness and cried many tears for her and those close to her. I’m going to really miss Winnie. Just the thought is making me feel tearful.
Although this book could be read as a standalone, it does give away things that happened in the previous books, hence me not mentioning anything about the plot. So if these books do appeal to you, I personally would recommend starting from the beginning so you can experience this powerful and wonderfully emotional family saga in the correct order.
The Secret Life of Winnie Cox
The Sugar Planter’s Daughter
The Girl from the Sugar Plantation
My review is also available on my blog here:
https://littlemissnosleep.wordpress.c...
October 19, 2017
5 Words: Prejudice, music, family, secrets, historical.
From the first page, I was in love with the beautiful writing. Something about the tone reminded me of Pirates by Celia Rees, and when I had to put the book down because life got in my way, I couldn't wait to dive back in.
I really loved Grace's story, how she thought she had everything worked out and then it was turned on its head. I loved her passion for music, and I got as lost in the writing as she got in playing.
This is part of a series, but I have not read any of the previous books and I read this no problem. It was definitely easy to read as a standalone, I don't feel like it impacted my enjoyment of the story. I am interested in reading the other books in the series though.
From the first page, I was in love with the beautiful writing. Something about the tone reminded me of Pirates by Celia Rees, and when I had to put the book down because life got in my way, I couldn't wait to dive back in.
I really loved Grace's story, how she thought she had everything worked out and then it was turned on its head. I loved her passion for music, and I got as lost in the writing as she got in playing.
This is part of a series, but I have not read any of the previous books and I read this no problem. It was definitely easy to read as a standalone, I don't feel like it impacted my enjoyment of the story. I am interested in reading the other books in the series though.
November 27, 2017
Haunting beautiful and thought provoking. I was immersed in the setting and culture this book is not one that will be easily forgotten. Crossing continents and racial division this book is incredible!
Heart rendering but yet mesmerizing a definite reread.
Pub Date 19 Oct 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
Heart rendering but yet mesmerizing a definite reread.
Pub Date 19 Oct 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
September 17, 2017
I absolutely adore Sharon Maas's books - she is one of my favourite authors, someone whose stories give me hours of reading pleasure. And this wonderful book is one of her best! What an amazing end to the Quint trilogy! I loved this book from start to finish, savouring every word, the author's beautiful prose. An evocative, powerful story of a family and a country. LOVED every word and I absolutely cannot wait for more from this amazing author.
September 25, 2017
The Girl from the Sugar Plantation is a beautifully written story that has it all.
A tragic love story about Mary Grace, a mixed race beauty, who doesn’t belong amongst the aristocratic elite, where she was brought up with her adopted parents, nor amongst the sugar plantation workers. Feeling lost and lonely, her only comfort comes from her extended family, Auntie Winnie and her eight male cousins, as well as her music.
I whizzed through this beautiful book, unable to put it down. Sharon Maas has a way with descriptions that don’t go overboard and at times her words are so realistic, I feel as though I am there.
A wonderful and heartrending story with lovely characters.
Very highly recommended.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
A tragic love story about Mary Grace, a mixed race beauty, who doesn’t belong amongst the aristocratic elite, where she was brought up with her adopted parents, nor amongst the sugar plantation workers. Feeling lost and lonely, her only comfort comes from her extended family, Auntie Winnie and her eight male cousins, as well as her music.
I whizzed through this beautiful book, unable to put it down. Sharon Maas has a way with descriptions that don’t go overboard and at times her words are so realistic, I feel as though I am there.
A wonderful and heartrending story with lovely characters.
Very highly recommended.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
October 19, 2017
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
This is a beautiful book to read!! I adored the writing style and the story was perfect - for me the whole thing was evocative, emotional and simply exquisite - it really is such a perfect addition to the Quint Chronicles and I loved every page.
The characters are great and they lead the story so well, the descriptive nature of the scenes makes you feel that you are with them in the book, it really is a treat to read - Sharon is definitely one of my favourite authors for this genre - no hesitation in giving the book 5 stars
This is a beautiful book to read!! I adored the writing style and the story was perfect - for me the whole thing was evocative, emotional and simply exquisite - it really is such a perfect addition to the Quint Chronicles and I loved every page.
The characters are great and they lead the story so well, the descriptive nature of the scenes makes you feel that you are with them in the book, it really is a treat to read - Sharon is definitely one of my favourite authors for this genre - no hesitation in giving the book 5 stars
November 12, 2017
The Girl from the Sugar Plantation is the final book in The Quint Chronicles, it follows ‘The Secret Life of Winnie Cox’ and ‘The Sugar Planter’s Daughter’ – but it is absolutely a standalone novel. How can I be sure? Because I read and fully enjoyed it without reading the previous two novels. Whereas the previous two novels focus on Winnie Cox, Mary Grace’s aunt, this novel branches off and gives you the life of Mary Grace. What I will say is, this novel is such a delightful read, it will make you want to read the other two – they are firmly now on my wish-list, along with ‘The Small Fortune of Dorothea Q’, which is a further branch off story of one of the characters we meet in this novel. I hope that’s put this novel in context for you, if not – all you need know is: it’s good, read it!
My initial pull to this novel was its location, Georgetown, Guyana – the birthplace of my father, and it made me so happy to learn more about Guyana through this novel. It’s always a beautiful touch when you read something in a novel that resonates with you in real life, for example, my dad has long been a fan of the sport of cricket, and every time these characters went to play cricket, it made me think of my dad and the times, as a little girl, I would go and watch him play. I toyed with the idea of playing myself, until I was hit in the face with a cricket ball! This novel certainly had a sentimental pull to it and I thank Maas for really allowing the culture of Guyana to shine through in her storytelling.
But that’s not to say you need this sentimental value to enjoy this novel, The Girl from the Sugar Plantation is a touching read, rich in history and characters, creating a pleasant reading experience for all. With strong themes of social injustice and prejudice, Mary Grace struggles to find her place in a world where skin colour determines your social status. Being mixed-race, her mother said she cannot marry a black man because that would mean to marry down in social status and that simply will not do, but to upper white class society, her skin is simply too dark.
Set against the backdrop of the onset of the second world war, this novel is also a coming-of-age story for Mary Grace and Maas does a brilliant job of developing her character, from her somewhat sheltered life to the harsh realities of the society she lives in. Where love is not as simple as it should be, where family secrets threaten to tear her world apart.
Winnie was my favourite character in this novel, a confidant to all, a strong woman who knows her own mind. But I did enjoy the portrayal of Jock’s character, his determination to right the wrongs of his family but he’s about to find out just how hard it is for change to come from above – from a white privileged background, can Jock be a catalyst for change?
I’d recommend The Girl from the Sugar Plantation to anyone who enjoys reading family sagas, enjoys meeting members of the family from each generation and most importantly, enjoys meeting a fictional family whose dynamic and life-stories are interesting and a pleasure to read about. I look forward to reading all the books in The Quint Chronicles.
*My thanks to the publisher (Bookouture) for granting me access to a digital copy of this novel via Netgalley*
My initial pull to this novel was its location, Georgetown, Guyana – the birthplace of my father, and it made me so happy to learn more about Guyana through this novel. It’s always a beautiful touch when you read something in a novel that resonates with you in real life, for example, my dad has long been a fan of the sport of cricket, and every time these characters went to play cricket, it made me think of my dad and the times, as a little girl, I would go and watch him play. I toyed with the idea of playing myself, until I was hit in the face with a cricket ball! This novel certainly had a sentimental pull to it and I thank Maas for really allowing the culture of Guyana to shine through in her storytelling.
But that’s not to say you need this sentimental value to enjoy this novel, The Girl from the Sugar Plantation is a touching read, rich in history and characters, creating a pleasant reading experience for all. With strong themes of social injustice and prejudice, Mary Grace struggles to find her place in a world where skin colour determines your social status. Being mixed-race, her mother said she cannot marry a black man because that would mean to marry down in social status and that simply will not do, but to upper white class society, her skin is simply too dark.
Set against the backdrop of the onset of the second world war, this novel is also a coming-of-age story for Mary Grace and Maas does a brilliant job of developing her character, from her somewhat sheltered life to the harsh realities of the society she lives in. Where love is not as simple as it should be, where family secrets threaten to tear her world apart.
Winnie was my favourite character in this novel, a confidant to all, a strong woman who knows her own mind. But I did enjoy the portrayal of Jock’s character, his determination to right the wrongs of his family but he’s about to find out just how hard it is for change to come from above – from a white privileged background, can Jock be a catalyst for change?
I’d recommend The Girl from the Sugar Plantation to anyone who enjoys reading family sagas, enjoys meeting members of the family from each generation and most importantly, enjoys meeting a fictional family whose dynamic and life-stories are interesting and a pleasure to read about. I look forward to reading all the books in The Quint Chronicles.
*My thanks to the publisher (Bookouture) for granting me access to a digital copy of this novel via Netgalley*
October 13, 2017
It’s no secret that I adore Sharon Maas’s books, so when a new one comes out I am always very excited and eager to read it. There is always a sense of anticipation when picking up the new novel by one of your favourite authors; will it be as good as their previous novels? What if it doesn’t live up to expectations? Maas, however, delivers again and The Girl From The Sugar Plantation exceeded all my expectations.
The Girl From The Sugar Plantation is the third (and sadly final) part of The Quint Chronicles. It works perfectly as a standalone so don’t worry if you haven’t read the first two books. We follow Mary Grace (known as Grace) Smedley-Cox in British Guyana from 1935 to the 1960’s. Grace is the mixed-race daughter of two white plantation owners and, at the age of sixteen, she is desperate to know the truth behind her parentage. What follows is an epic story of family deceit, love and identity set against a stunning backdrop and yet there is much more to this book than that.
Maas, as always, has beautifully created the sense of place. You can see, smell and hear Guyana and you are completely transported there. The Guyanan sun was a welcome break from the somewhat dull British autumn months. You are on the plantations and in Georgetown while reading this book and, indeed, Maas’s other books in the series.
With a rich cast of characters, you cannot help but get completely absorbed in their lives. Grace is in an unusual situation in that she has status as the daughter of plantation owners but she is the ‘wrong’ skin colour during a time and in a place in which the colour of your skin determines your future and your standing. This gives The Girl From The Sugar Plantation that extra depth which makes the book all the more compelling.
Alongside the tale of family secrets and love is the tale of oppression and social change and it is this aspect that makes The Girl From The Sugar Plantation even more enjoyable for me. Maas has clearly carefully conducted her research and portrays this time of great change in Guyanan history with authenticity, skilfully mixing historical fact with fiction.
The political landscape The Girl From The Sugar Plantation is fascinating. I only realised on reading the Historical Notes that Jock Campbell actually existed and that there is very little written about this hero. Maas has done him and his family proud in her portrayal of him. It is comforting to know that in an often harsh and unequal world there are and have been people out there who have a social conscience and become a force for good.
I adored The Girl From The Sugar Plantation and recommend it highly. If you love books that contain exotic settings, family secrets and lies and historical fact you will enjoy this book. Maas has brought us a wonderfully written piece of historical fiction.
A huge thank you to Sharon Maas, Bookouture and Netgalley for the advance copy in exchange for my review.
The Girl From The Sugar Plantation is the third (and sadly final) part of The Quint Chronicles. It works perfectly as a standalone so don’t worry if you haven’t read the first two books. We follow Mary Grace (known as Grace) Smedley-Cox in British Guyana from 1935 to the 1960’s. Grace is the mixed-race daughter of two white plantation owners and, at the age of sixteen, she is desperate to know the truth behind her parentage. What follows is an epic story of family deceit, love and identity set against a stunning backdrop and yet there is much more to this book than that.
Maas, as always, has beautifully created the sense of place. You can see, smell and hear Guyana and you are completely transported there. The Guyanan sun was a welcome break from the somewhat dull British autumn months. You are on the plantations and in Georgetown while reading this book and, indeed, Maas’s other books in the series.
With a rich cast of characters, you cannot help but get completely absorbed in their lives. Grace is in an unusual situation in that she has status as the daughter of plantation owners but she is the ‘wrong’ skin colour during a time and in a place in which the colour of your skin determines your future and your standing. This gives The Girl From The Sugar Plantation that extra depth which makes the book all the more compelling.
Alongside the tale of family secrets and love is the tale of oppression and social change and it is this aspect that makes The Girl From The Sugar Plantation even more enjoyable for me. Maas has clearly carefully conducted her research and portrays this time of great change in Guyanan history with authenticity, skilfully mixing historical fact with fiction.
The political landscape The Girl From The Sugar Plantation is fascinating. I only realised on reading the Historical Notes that Jock Campbell actually existed and that there is very little written about this hero. Maas has done him and his family proud in her portrayal of him. It is comforting to know that in an often harsh and unequal world there are and have been people out there who have a social conscience and become a force for good.
I adored The Girl From The Sugar Plantation and recommend it highly. If you love books that contain exotic settings, family secrets and lies and historical fact you will enjoy this book. Maas has brought us a wonderfully written piece of historical fiction.
A huge thank you to Sharon Maas, Bookouture and Netgalley for the advance copy in exchange for my review.
October 25, 2017
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers, Bookouture, for this review copy, given in exchange for an honest review. Also thank you to Noelle from Bookouture for organising the Blog Blitz.
This is the story of Mary Grace. She is the mixed race daughter of two white plantation owners in Georgetown in 1934. She has wanted to know the truth about who her parents really are, the parents that she knows obviously aren’t her real parents. What happened before her birth was always kept a secret from her and she spent her childhood being subjected to rumours about herself and her parentage. Mary Grace feels that she cannot stay at home and goes off to make her own way in a world on the brink of World War II. Here, she meets and falls for Jock Campbell and her life changes forever.
This is the third and final book in the Quint Chronicles. I haven’t read any of the other books, but whilst it would have helped understand the story, you don’t need to have read them before this one. This is also the first book that I have read by this author.
I wasn’t sure whether I would like this book. I don’t usually go for historical fiction, well not American. I don’t know why but I find American history hard going! Saying that, I was offered the opportunity to be part of the Blog Blitz for this book and decided to give it a try. I found the first few chapters’ hard work and struggled to get into them. I persevered with it, and was very glad I did!
Without going into too much detail and spoiling it, the story of Mary Grace was heart-warming and heart-breaking all in one go. She spent her childhood so obviously not being the child of who she knew as her parents – a mixed race girl with two white parents. As she was growing up she obviously wanted to know what the secret was behind her birth and why it was kept so quiet. Her relationship with fellow planter, Jock Campbell was founded on the brink of World War II. How heart-breaking for her to deal with the circumstances of her parentage and then the onset of war. I loved the character of Mary Grace and really felt for her story and her situation.
This is a powerful book of love, relationships and trust mixed with the ugliness of racism, society and war. What great writing from a great author. Not my usual read at all, but one which I will definitely try again.
Five Stars!
This is the story of Mary Grace. She is the mixed race daughter of two white plantation owners in Georgetown in 1934. She has wanted to know the truth about who her parents really are, the parents that she knows obviously aren’t her real parents. What happened before her birth was always kept a secret from her and she spent her childhood being subjected to rumours about herself and her parentage. Mary Grace feels that she cannot stay at home and goes off to make her own way in a world on the brink of World War II. Here, she meets and falls for Jock Campbell and her life changes forever.
This is the third and final book in the Quint Chronicles. I haven’t read any of the other books, but whilst it would have helped understand the story, you don’t need to have read them before this one. This is also the first book that I have read by this author.
I wasn’t sure whether I would like this book. I don’t usually go for historical fiction, well not American. I don’t know why but I find American history hard going! Saying that, I was offered the opportunity to be part of the Blog Blitz for this book and decided to give it a try. I found the first few chapters’ hard work and struggled to get into them. I persevered with it, and was very glad I did!
Without going into too much detail and spoiling it, the story of Mary Grace was heart-warming and heart-breaking all in one go. She spent her childhood so obviously not being the child of who she knew as her parents – a mixed race girl with two white parents. As she was growing up she obviously wanted to know what the secret was behind her birth and why it was kept so quiet. Her relationship with fellow planter, Jock Campbell was founded on the brink of World War II. How heart-breaking for her to deal with the circumstances of her parentage and then the onset of war. I loved the character of Mary Grace and really felt for her story and her situation.
This is a powerful book of love, relationships and trust mixed with the ugliness of racism, society and war. What great writing from a great author. Not my usual read at all, but one which I will definitely try again.
Five Stars!
August 28, 2017
Sharon Maas can write a darn good novel with a strong setting, evocative and fresh with difficult and dark undercurrents and this is no exception. Mary Rose is a character I really cared about and her budding romance with Jock, with the pressures and problems of the time are fascinating. A full review nearer the time but there's some strong history and cultural interest with this one and it's a lyrical and layered story with lots to entice the reader in.
Full review nearer the time but one to put on the TBR list (and then get the others in the series)
Full review nearer the time but one to put on the TBR list (and then get the others in the series)
January 13, 2018
An intoxicating, seductive novel that draws you into the wonderful narrative inter-twining a hugely emotional love story with fascinating detail about British Guyana and it's political history. I have a couple of friends brought up in BG during the time period the novel is set and it is so truthful and evocative. Great characters, beautiful descriptions of the landscape and fascinating to learn the Booker literary prize had its origins with the sugar giant in Guyana. A great read that will stay with me for a long time.
October 7, 2017
Loved it!!! Really absorbing story of Grace, daughter of YoYo and niece of Winnie who we've met in previous books. Absolutely loved Grace's character and the interplay with the various characters.
Would be fine as a standalone but nice to read as part of the series to give more colour and backdrop to the situation. Good insights into Guyanese history too.
Sharon Maas weaves a fine tale and remains one of my go-to authors.
5*
Would be fine as a standalone but nice to read as part of the series to give more colour and backdrop to the situation. Good insights into Guyanese history too.
Sharon Maas weaves a fine tale and remains one of my go-to authors.
5*
November 3, 2017
For all my reviews: https://ahavenforbooklovers.wordpress...
Mary Grace is the MC in this wonderful story. She is of mixed-race in a country and era where racial relations were quite tense and racial prejudice was the norm. All non-white races are treated poorly as low class citizens. Mary Grace lives with her adopted mother who is white. However, she doesn’t totally fit into her mom’s circles because of her skin color. Right from the first page, I was drawn to Mary Grace. Her struggles with identity and acceptance tugged at my heart-string. I also enjoyed reading about her love for music. The racial relations are a key aspect of this story and the author does an excellent job in helping readers understand all the struggles undergone by the different races at the time.
There were quite a number of wonderful characters in this book. Winnie, Mary Grace’s aunt is such a force to reckon with. She is a strong character and I fell in love with her family. I am still torn about my feelings about Jock, confused about whether I like him or not. Let me just say that Maas carefully crafted each character in such a way that you can’t help but invest in them and their lives. They all evoked different emotions in me.
The pace in this story is well-balanced. The events take place over decades and the author masterfully takes readers through the change of time. There are a lot of joys and pains along the way. Nevertheless, this is quite a beautiful, emotional read. As I have mentioned, it can be read as a standalone but I still think that it is best to read all three books in order. Interestingly, I thought this is purely fiction until I got to the end of the book and found out it was actually a mix of facts and fiction. The first thing that I noticed was the mention of the origin of the Booker Literary prize. It turns out that some of the characters such as Jock Campbell and Cheddi Jaggan are real life people. If you enjoy this type of historical fiction, then you definitely need to read the Quint chronicles by Sharon Maas.
Mary Grace is the MC in this wonderful story. She is of mixed-race in a country and era where racial relations were quite tense and racial prejudice was the norm. All non-white races are treated poorly as low class citizens. Mary Grace lives with her adopted mother who is white. However, she doesn’t totally fit into her mom’s circles because of her skin color. Right from the first page, I was drawn to Mary Grace. Her struggles with identity and acceptance tugged at my heart-string. I also enjoyed reading about her love for music. The racial relations are a key aspect of this story and the author does an excellent job in helping readers understand all the struggles undergone by the different races at the time.
There were quite a number of wonderful characters in this book. Winnie, Mary Grace’s aunt is such a force to reckon with. She is a strong character and I fell in love with her family. I am still torn about my feelings about Jock, confused about whether I like him or not. Let me just say that Maas carefully crafted each character in such a way that you can’t help but invest in them and their lives. They all evoked different emotions in me.
The pace in this story is well-balanced. The events take place over decades and the author masterfully takes readers through the change of time. There are a lot of joys and pains along the way. Nevertheless, this is quite a beautiful, emotional read. As I have mentioned, it can be read as a standalone but I still think that it is best to read all three books in order. Interestingly, I thought this is purely fiction until I got to the end of the book and found out it was actually a mix of facts and fiction. The first thing that I noticed was the mention of the origin of the Booker Literary prize. It turns out that some of the characters such as Jock Campbell and Cheddi Jaggan are real life people. If you enjoy this type of historical fiction, then you definitely need to read the Quint chronicles by Sharon Maas.
November 7, 2017
I practically read this book in one sitting (or certainly would have, if life hadn't interfered)! I became invested in this story from the opening line and it held my attention to the very last. After reading this book, I found myself at the computer looking up whatever information I could on Jock Campbell. (Interestingly enough, this is the second book, in less than a month, that has sent me flying to the computer for more information!) It would seem that Jock was an incredible man, not only as portrayed in this book, but in real life as well. I especially loved the main character of this book, Grace. She was portrayed as a young woman trying to find her place in the world and even in her family. Perhaps among the greatest tragedies was the time she was estranged from her biological mother. Seemed that way too much time passed before they reconnected again. I wish that her story could have included a HEA with Jock, but true to Jock's life, he did not remain and returned to his family in England. I highly recommend this book, not only to lovers of historical fiction, but anyone who just loves to read! (I was given a copy of this book for my honest review.)
July 1, 2022
I read this 1930s to 1950s historical fiction set in Georgetown, Guyana, as part of my read around the world challenge. The author was born and raised in Guyana.
I learned a little about the country along the way. Guyana is on the northern mainland of South America, and was colonised by the Dutch before becoming a British sugar-producing colony in the late 18th century, called British Guiana. It gained independence in 1966. Guyana is the only South American nation in which English is the official language. However, the majority of the population speak Guyanese Creole, an English-based creole, as a first language. It is considered part of the mainland Caribbean region. The population is made up of around 40% Indian, 30% African, 20%, Multiracial and 10% Indigenous peoples with Europeans making up less than 0.5% of the population.
This is the third story in the Quint Chronicles however the first one I have read, which didn’t seem to be a problem. It is the story of Mary Grace Smedley Cox, the mixed race daughter of wealthy white plantation owners. Grace struggles to be accepted by society and wrestles with the mystery of her birth and a difficult relationship with her forceful mother. She feels a much stronger bond to her wise and affectionate aunt Winnie and her sons.
When Jock Campbell emigrates to British Guiana (affectionately known as BG by the locals) with ambitious plans to dramatically improve the lot of the oppressed plantation workers, Grace finally feels she has met a soulmate. The story is an insight into the struggles of a woman of colour in colonial British Guiana and also into the politics of change. Jock Campbell is a historical figure, a dedicated reformer and he was also later instrumental in establishing the Man Booker prize. Passionate revolutionary Cheddi Jaggan is also featured. I enjoyed this book although I felt it sagged somewhat towards the end, with a not overly inspiring ending. There were some lengthy political monologues along the way but I would be happy to read another book by Sharon Maas.
I learned a little about the country along the way. Guyana is on the northern mainland of South America, and was colonised by the Dutch before becoming a British sugar-producing colony in the late 18th century, called British Guiana. It gained independence in 1966. Guyana is the only South American nation in which English is the official language. However, the majority of the population speak Guyanese Creole, an English-based creole, as a first language. It is considered part of the mainland Caribbean region. The population is made up of around 40% Indian, 30% African, 20%, Multiracial and 10% Indigenous peoples with Europeans making up less than 0.5% of the population.
This is the third story in the Quint Chronicles however the first one I have read, which didn’t seem to be a problem. It is the story of Mary Grace Smedley Cox, the mixed race daughter of wealthy white plantation owners. Grace struggles to be accepted by society and wrestles with the mystery of her birth and a difficult relationship with her forceful mother. She feels a much stronger bond to her wise and affectionate aunt Winnie and her sons.
When Jock Campbell emigrates to British Guiana (affectionately known as BG by the locals) with ambitious plans to dramatically improve the lot of the oppressed plantation workers, Grace finally feels she has met a soulmate. The story is an insight into the struggles of a woman of colour in colonial British Guiana and also into the politics of change. Jock Campbell is a historical figure, a dedicated reformer and he was also later instrumental in establishing the Man Booker prize. Passionate revolutionary Cheddi Jaggan is also featured. I enjoyed this book although I felt it sagged somewhat towards the end, with a not overly inspiring ending. There were some lengthy political monologues along the way but I would be happy to read another book by Sharon Maas.
February 11, 2025
This has been an excellent trilogy. There is historical fiction which is my favourite genre. People in these stories actually existed according to the author's notes at the end of the story. It was exciting in the sense there was always something happening. The love of family was very apparent as well.
October 31, 2017
The Girl from the Sugar Plantation is a gripping and compelling read, where fact meet fiction and a wonderful story arises.
The plot is based on factual events, on the sugar plantations in Guyana and the life of the people at the time. Many of the characters are also real people, who made a difference or had an impact on the lives of people. The story is well written and brings out the emotions of the people in the story. It will draw you in and keep you hooked until the very end.
The reader has the pleasure of meeting Mary Grace, a strong willed girl who learns to believe that there is more to life than the one she leads on the sugar plantation. As the story progresses, we see her grow and blossom into a wonderful woman with a burning passion for life. We are exposed to the brutality of life, the concept of slaves and workers, the upper class society and a certain level of superiority based on color of the skin. The author exposes us to the shocking truth and mindset of the people, and the ideas behind revolutions and changes. Jock is a strongly described character with an interesting mindset and a set goal in life. He is willing to sacrifice love for his goal.
The supporting characters in Mary Grace's mother, her aunt, her cousins and the secrets they hold only seek to expose us to the reality of life and the people. The strength and unity, the confidence and pride they have for and in each other is inspiring. The impact of the Second World War on the world and lives of people is portrayed really well and it is sure that the reader will be able to experience an array of emotions.
The choices a person makes at different stages in life shapes their life and this is seen clearly through the decisions of the people in the book. This story will stay with you until the end and after, leaving behind a deeper impact and food for thought.
The plot is based on factual events, on the sugar plantations in Guyana and the life of the people at the time. Many of the characters are also real people, who made a difference or had an impact on the lives of people. The story is well written and brings out the emotions of the people in the story. It will draw you in and keep you hooked until the very end.
The reader has the pleasure of meeting Mary Grace, a strong willed girl who learns to believe that there is more to life than the one she leads on the sugar plantation. As the story progresses, we see her grow and blossom into a wonderful woman with a burning passion for life. We are exposed to the brutality of life, the concept of slaves and workers, the upper class society and a certain level of superiority based on color of the skin. The author exposes us to the shocking truth and mindset of the people, and the ideas behind revolutions and changes. Jock is a strongly described character with an interesting mindset and a set goal in life. He is willing to sacrifice love for his goal.
The supporting characters in Mary Grace's mother, her aunt, her cousins and the secrets they hold only seek to expose us to the reality of life and the people. The strength and unity, the confidence and pride they have for and in each other is inspiring. The impact of the Second World War on the world and lives of people is portrayed really well and it is sure that the reader will be able to experience an array of emotions.
The choices a person makes at different stages in life shapes their life and this is seen clearly through the decisions of the people in the book. This story will stay with you until the end and after, leaving behind a deeper impact and food for thought.
August 4, 2020
Beautiful writing! Intriguing story. I've now read the Quint Chronicles. It was wonderful to learn that the Booker Prize is so named after the Booker Plantation's involvement with Jock Campbell.
October 25, 2017
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
I have come to realise that a Sharon Maas novel requires nothing less than 100% attention, and nothing less than 100% devotion. I'm not saying that other books require less, I'm just saying that because of the strong and complex storylines which this author produces, it would be wrong to only pay this book (as well as her others) a little bit of attention.
Mary Grace is living life as a mixed-race person, yet nurtured by a white mother. In this day and age, race and skin colour isn't the be all and end all. Well, it shouldn't be. However, different cultures and skin colours weren't at all respected in the past. If you weren't white then you would find yourself on the lowest bar on the ladder - if you were lucky enough to make it on the ladder full stop. Reading Mary Grace's story was exceptionally eye-opening due to how coloured people were treated in those days. Of course we could pick up a history people and read all about it, but it becomes ten times more raw when you're reading someone else's story and finding out their feelings during said time. My heart went out to Mary Grace, that's for sure.
The further into the book I read, the more complex the storyline became. A lot more characters were introduced and due to a lot of them being called 'auntie' and 'uncle', I struggled to keep up with who was who. Thankfully it didn't deter me from enjoying the story, it just meant that I had to focus more on the characters names so that I knew which part of Mary Grace's life they were from.
I really did enjoy how complex the storyline was as I found myself able to sink my teeth into every chapter. I became hungry for more storyline, more secrets, more challenges - the works. As I reached around three-quarters of the way into the book, I surprised myself by becoming rather emotional due to the intense, from the heart feelings the author managed to convey within her writing. Nearly each and every character had to jump over a hurdle in the lifetime - most of which we were able to follow in 'The Girl from the Sugar Plantation'. Those hurdles were heart-wrenching, highly emotive, eye-opening yet weirdly enchanting. I could feel the sadness jumping off the page. I could feel the heart-warming moments warming up the room. I could feel the authors heart being plowed into each individual word. This book made me feel from the pit of my stomach.
Obviously, the circumstances in which this book is based around, aren't exactly easy to read - especially as you find out how certain people were treated by people in your society as it were. I felt quite ashamed that situations like that happened by white people. It just goes to show how much things can change in the blink of an eye and how respect has greatly changed over the years.
'The Girl from the Sugar Plantation' is a beautifully executed, highly emotive, and poignant read which is guaranteed to make any reader find emotions which they never knew existed. From the eye-opening situations regarding society, to the beautifully written and well crafted moments regarding multiple characters and their hearts - Sharon Maas seems to have included it all.
I am in awe at how poignant just one novel can be.
Honestly? I am in awe at 'The Girl from the Sugar Plantation' full stop.
Thanks Bookouture.
I have come to realise that a Sharon Maas novel requires nothing less than 100% attention, and nothing less than 100% devotion. I'm not saying that other books require less, I'm just saying that because of the strong and complex storylines which this author produces, it would be wrong to only pay this book (as well as her others) a little bit of attention.
Mary Grace is living life as a mixed-race person, yet nurtured by a white mother. In this day and age, race and skin colour isn't the be all and end all. Well, it shouldn't be. However, different cultures and skin colours weren't at all respected in the past. If you weren't white then you would find yourself on the lowest bar on the ladder - if you were lucky enough to make it on the ladder full stop. Reading Mary Grace's story was exceptionally eye-opening due to how coloured people were treated in those days. Of course we could pick up a history people and read all about it, but it becomes ten times more raw when you're reading someone else's story and finding out their feelings during said time. My heart went out to Mary Grace, that's for sure.
The further into the book I read, the more complex the storyline became. A lot more characters were introduced and due to a lot of them being called 'auntie' and 'uncle', I struggled to keep up with who was who. Thankfully it didn't deter me from enjoying the story, it just meant that I had to focus more on the characters names so that I knew which part of Mary Grace's life they were from.
I really did enjoy how complex the storyline was as I found myself able to sink my teeth into every chapter. I became hungry for more storyline, more secrets, more challenges - the works. As I reached around three-quarters of the way into the book, I surprised myself by becoming rather emotional due to the intense, from the heart feelings the author managed to convey within her writing. Nearly each and every character had to jump over a hurdle in the lifetime - most of which we were able to follow in 'The Girl from the Sugar Plantation'. Those hurdles were heart-wrenching, highly emotive, eye-opening yet weirdly enchanting. I could feel the sadness jumping off the page. I could feel the heart-warming moments warming up the room. I could feel the authors heart being plowed into each individual word. This book made me feel from the pit of my stomach.
Obviously, the circumstances in which this book is based around, aren't exactly easy to read - especially as you find out how certain people were treated by people in your society as it were. I felt quite ashamed that situations like that happened by white people. It just goes to show how much things can change in the blink of an eye and how respect has greatly changed over the years.
'The Girl from the Sugar Plantation' is a beautifully executed, highly emotive, and poignant read which is guaranteed to make any reader find emotions which they never knew existed. From the eye-opening situations regarding society, to the beautifully written and well crafted moments regarding multiple characters and their hearts - Sharon Maas seems to have included it all.
I am in awe at how poignant just one novel can be.
Honestly? I am in awe at 'The Girl from the Sugar Plantation' full stop.
Thanks Bookouture.
October 16, 2017
Sharon Maas is a wonderful writer who can bring her stories and characters to life so vividly. This is actually the last book of the (Quint Chronicles) I have read it out of order but find that it could be a stand alone book. This story takes place in British Guiana, 1934 through the 1960's. I had really not known much about this area or part of Guyana at that time, a time of sugar plantations and the era of prejudice and bigotry, towards the workers on them. They were not slaves at the time but treated as if the were. Everything for the wealth of the plantation owners, leaving the workers to live in deplorable conditions and with no schools, Doctors, or time off at their disposal.
The story follows the owner of a plantation,Promised Land, YoYo Smedley-Cox and her daughter, Mary Grace, who is of mixed race, and who is YoYo's adopted daughter. The other sister Aunt Winnie, whom Mary Grace adores, and who became an outcast when she married a man of a different race and had many boys. They were a very loving family and Grace, loved to go there and to feel a part of that love, as she was an only child.
A young man, Jock Campbell comes over from England to work for his families many interests in Guiana, and ends up living on the neighboring plantation to Promised land, a place called Albion. He and Grace became close and have a love which is bitter sweet, as Jock is trying to change the life of all workers on the plantations for the better and this seems to be his main interest.
Jock Campbell and two other people mentioned in the book Cheddi Jagan, and his wife Janet were true figures in Guyana's history, and were mixed into the story line.
There is so much more that goes on in this story, we follow Grace as she pursues her musical interest and get to know Aunt Winnies boys and their many interest.
I love the authors books, and plan to read them all.
Thank you Net Galley and Bookouture for the ARC of this book.
The story follows the owner of a plantation,Promised Land, YoYo Smedley-Cox and her daughter, Mary Grace, who is of mixed race, and who is YoYo's adopted daughter. The other sister Aunt Winnie, whom Mary Grace adores, and who became an outcast when she married a man of a different race and had many boys. They were a very loving family and Grace, loved to go there and to feel a part of that love, as she was an only child.
A young man, Jock Campbell comes over from England to work for his families many interests in Guiana, and ends up living on the neighboring plantation to Promised land, a place called Albion. He and Grace became close and have a love which is bitter sweet, as Jock is trying to change the life of all workers on the plantations for the better and this seems to be his main interest.
Jock Campbell and two other people mentioned in the book Cheddi Jagan, and his wife Janet were true figures in Guyana's history, and were mixed into the story line.
There is so much more that goes on in this story, we follow Grace as she pursues her musical interest and get to know Aunt Winnies boys and their many interest.
I love the authors books, and plan to read them all.
Thank you Net Galley and Bookouture for the ARC of this book.
October 21, 2017
The Girl from the Sugar Plantation transports you back to a time where the British ruled the plantations in Guyana. You follow the story of Mary Grace who is a mixed race daughter of white plantation owners as she grows up, discovers first love and the history of her family.
Mary Grace is very aware of her standing in life due to the colour of her skin but this does not stop her wanting more. Controlled by a mother who is determined that Mary Grace will “marry up” despite her heritage you witness the struggle for her to break free. Even with the issues that race still throws up today, you do tend to forget that in the 1930’s skin colour played an even greater part in society and how you were accepted.
I absolutely loved Aunt Winnie and her brood. Winnie had married beneath her (or at least that is what society at the time believed) by falling for then marrying a coloured man. Over time she had fought her way back into society by refusing to let others dictate what was acceptable. She also adored Mary Grace and encouraged her to go for her dreams. Family secrets that could have wrecked the bond between them actually made them closer.
For me the story started slowly but despite this I couldn’t put the book down as I became drawn into the lives of the plantation owners and their families. Intertwined with the family saga are the details of the changing social & political landscape of the time. I have a real fascination with history so finding out that a couple of the characters in this book actually existed in real life and quite a bit of what they were involved in was based on facts was a real bonus for me and shows the level of attention to detail that the author went to in order to capture that period in time.
The Girl from the Sugar Plantation is the third book in the Quint Chronicles but I will admit it is the first one I have read. That being said it seemed to work well as a stand-alone story and I had no problems following it, but I do now think that I will have to hunt down the first two books to complete the set just to see what I have missed out on.
Mary Grace is very aware of her standing in life due to the colour of her skin but this does not stop her wanting more. Controlled by a mother who is determined that Mary Grace will “marry up” despite her heritage you witness the struggle for her to break free. Even with the issues that race still throws up today, you do tend to forget that in the 1930’s skin colour played an even greater part in society and how you were accepted.
I absolutely loved Aunt Winnie and her brood. Winnie had married beneath her (or at least that is what society at the time believed) by falling for then marrying a coloured man. Over time she had fought her way back into society by refusing to let others dictate what was acceptable. She also adored Mary Grace and encouraged her to go for her dreams. Family secrets that could have wrecked the bond between them actually made them closer.
For me the story started slowly but despite this I couldn’t put the book down as I became drawn into the lives of the plantation owners and their families. Intertwined with the family saga are the details of the changing social & political landscape of the time. I have a real fascination with history so finding out that a couple of the characters in this book actually existed in real life and quite a bit of what they were involved in was based on facts was a real bonus for me and shows the level of attention to detail that the author went to in order to capture that period in time.
The Girl from the Sugar Plantation is the third book in the Quint Chronicles but I will admit it is the first one I have read. That being said it seemed to work well as a stand-alone story and I had no problems following it, but I do now think that I will have to hunt down the first two books to complete the set just to see what I have missed out on.
October 20, 2017
This was a book I hadn’t really expected to enjoy as much as I did. I rarely read historical fiction these days, I’m more likely to read a non fiction account of any historical period I’m interested in these days but I very quickly fell in love with this beautifully written book and couldn’t wait to get back to reading it if I put it down.
It’s a gripping, evocative and poignant story of a young girl’s difficult transition into womanhood amidst a time of turmoil in
British Guyana (known colloquially as BG or BeeGee) a former British colony in the British West Indies in the Caribbean now an independent Guyana.
Grace is the young musically gifted daughter of a plantation owner, a widow who is known for her harsh treatment of her sugar plantation workers. There are mysteries surrounding Grace’s true parentage that take a while to unravel throughout the book.
Grace’s story is one of courage and strength as she tries to be a dutiful daughter but falls in love with someone who isn’t exactly the husband her mother had in mind for her.
The book is rich in historical detail and throughout the book the changing times of the colony, once part of Britain’s shameful colonial past are a backdrop to the story and I learned much that I hadn’t known before.
The middle section of the book did go a little fluffy with romantic meetings but once that was over it was soon back to the realities of this engrossing read.
I was surprised to read that this is the final book in a trilogy because it works very well as a standalone.
There’s a truly astonishing bit of history revealed right at the end that took me completely by surprise and I had absolutely no idea about.
It’s a gripping, evocative and poignant story of a young girl’s difficult transition into womanhood amidst a time of turmoil in
British Guyana (known colloquially as BG or BeeGee) a former British colony in the British West Indies in the Caribbean now an independent Guyana.
Grace is the young musically gifted daughter of a plantation owner, a widow who is known for her harsh treatment of her sugar plantation workers. There are mysteries surrounding Grace’s true parentage that take a while to unravel throughout the book.
Grace’s story is one of courage and strength as she tries to be a dutiful daughter but falls in love with someone who isn’t exactly the husband her mother had in mind for her.
The book is rich in historical detail and throughout the book the changing times of the colony, once part of Britain’s shameful colonial past are a backdrop to the story and I learned much that I hadn’t known before.
The middle section of the book did go a little fluffy with romantic meetings but once that was over it was soon back to the realities of this engrossing read.
I was surprised to read that this is the final book in a trilogy because it works very well as a standalone.
There’s a truly astonishing bit of history revealed right at the end that took me completely by surprise and I had absolutely no idea about.
October 28, 2017
Good
This was a good continuation in the sugar plantation series, the next generation. I truly felt the indignation and humiliation of the workers and people of color.
I was a white child raised in privilege. I read Malcolm X at age 12, and it made a huge impact on me. I have been an activist most my life and my marriage of 34 years was an interracial one wherein we raised four beautiful, intelligent daughters and now have 8 grandchildren who cover the entire spectrum of races...... My family is beautiful, and I will continue to educate them on their heritages and cultures. I believe this series is a good one to add to jury library. The stories are full of historical events that should be passed on so that we continue to move forward. I loved the quote by Campbell in the preface.....so true!
My only negative thought in the story was at the end where she determines not to let Josh know about Joanna......again, lies.....much like Yoyo lied about her. I found that unsettling...as if she hadn't learned a thing from her own mother's deception. I do understand the thinking given the circumstances, though.
I had never heard of Josh Campbell prior to this, and am constantly amazed at the amount of unknown or buried history there is. This is an unearthed gem! I definitely recommend to history buffs and readers of historical fiction. Very good plot and well described and developed characters. Lots of history and realism, if you can stomach the truth.
This was a good continuation in the sugar plantation series, the next generation. I truly felt the indignation and humiliation of the workers and people of color.
I was a white child raised in privilege. I read Malcolm X at age 12, and it made a huge impact on me. I have been an activist most my life and my marriage of 34 years was an interracial one wherein we raised four beautiful, intelligent daughters and now have 8 grandchildren who cover the entire spectrum of races...... My family is beautiful, and I will continue to educate them on their heritages and cultures. I believe this series is a good one to add to jury library. The stories are full of historical events that should be passed on so that we continue to move forward. I loved the quote by Campbell in the preface.....so true!
My only negative thought in the story was at the end where she determines not to let Josh know about Joanna......again, lies.....much like Yoyo lied about her. I found that unsettling...as if she hadn't learned a thing from her own mother's deception. I do understand the thinking given the circumstances, though.
I had never heard of Josh Campbell prior to this, and am constantly amazed at the amount of unknown or buried history there is. This is an unearthed gem! I definitely recommend to history buffs and readers of historical fiction. Very good plot and well described and developed characters. Lots of history and realism, if you can stomach the truth.
September 24, 2021
Mary Grace Smedley-Cox was the final family member on the plantation, Promised Land in British Guiana, near the capital city, Georgetown. She grew up with her white mother, who had adopted the half-black girl as an infant. Her mother ran the plantation in the old manner, treating the non-white workers as near slaves - over working, under paying, and providing despicable housing and food supplies. Because of her mixed heritage, Grace did not fit in with the society of planters, in fact was not allowed in. Instead she studied music and became an excellent pianist. When a new plantation owner, Jock Campbell, arrived to manage a neighboring place, he did not have the adverse attitude to color. Thus, he and Grace became close. They hoped to marry, but Grace was still in school and too young and Jock hadn't achieved majority from his Scottish parents. Much of the book involves her waiting. At the same time she develops a strong relationship with her mother's sister Winne, who had married a black man and had eight sons. She and Grace's mother had had a life long falling out.
The book demonstrates the racial attitudes of the British colony while exploring what it means to be bi-racial in this culture. Much of the book is excellent, but I felt the final third was rushed. It seemed the author was interested in getting the book finished with little regard for the story - things happen quickly without the nuances that carried the first tw0-thirds. Unfortunate.
The book demonstrates the racial attitudes of the British colony while exploring what it means to be bi-racial in this culture. Much of the book is excellent, but I felt the final third was rushed. It seemed the author was interested in getting the book finished with little regard for the story - things happen quickly without the nuances that carried the first tw0-thirds. Unfortunate.
October 13, 2021
Not my usual sort of book, but I read this for a world adventure by book group and it was interesting and I learned a lot about the history of British Guiana which became the independent commonwealth country of Guyana in 1966.
Mary Grace is the adopted daughter of a sugar plantation owner raising her daughter alone after her father's death and a second marriage to an absentee husband. Mary Grace and her mother are very different and at odds, and Mary Grace finds comfort in her mother's sister's large extended family in Georgetown, as well as music. Following a piano concert at a white-only club, Gracie's life changes as she both pursues a degree and career in music and joins a romantic love on a quest to improve conditions for the workers on his and all plantations. Circumstances separate them but Gracie finds happiness with family and her music. After a loss in WWII, she leaves her beloved BG but watches history unfold with independence in 1966.
The story is entertaining and a good overview of the actual labor struggles in Guyana and Gracie's first love is based on an actual person, a Scot who ended up on the board of the sugar producers company, changing labor practices for the better and through a relationship with author Ian Fleming, using his Booker Corporation to establish the Booker Prize, now a well known literary award. Recommend if you like historical sagas or learning about other cultures.
Mary Grace is the adopted daughter of a sugar plantation owner raising her daughter alone after her father's death and a second marriage to an absentee husband. Mary Grace and her mother are very different and at odds, and Mary Grace finds comfort in her mother's sister's large extended family in Georgetown, as well as music. Following a piano concert at a white-only club, Gracie's life changes as she both pursues a degree and career in music and joins a romantic love on a quest to improve conditions for the workers on his and all plantations. Circumstances separate them but Gracie finds happiness with family and her music. After a loss in WWII, she leaves her beloved BG but watches history unfold with independence in 1966.
The story is entertaining and a good overview of the actual labor struggles in Guyana and Gracie's first love is based on an actual person, a Scot who ended up on the board of the sugar producers company, changing labor practices for the better and through a relationship with author Ian Fleming, using his Booker Corporation to establish the Booker Prize, now a well known literary award. Recommend if you like historical sagas or learning about other cultures.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2017
I have to be honest and say I haven’t read any other books by this author but it’s a Bookouture novel that I have heard good things about so when given the chance to review I volunteered. It is apparently the final in The Quint trilogy but it seems to read ok as a standalone.
The writing is incredibly intense, the scenery and atmosphere clear, the emotions raw. By reading The Girl from the Sugar Plantation you are transported back in time where social injustice is rife, the historical aspect is riveting the sense of cultural differences abound.
There are family secrets, multi-layered love interests all against the backdrop of Guyana. My personal knowledge of this area or era are extremely limited so it was an education in itself.
This is a fairly lengthy book which requires concentration (or it did for me) take your time to read, digest and enjoy it. Especially good for lovers of historical fiction, the style and complexity of the writing warranted a raise from a 3 to a 4 star for me.
Thanks to the author, publisher and netgalley for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
The writing is incredibly intense, the scenery and atmosphere clear, the emotions raw. By reading The Girl from the Sugar Plantation you are transported back in time where social injustice is rife, the historical aspect is riveting the sense of cultural differences abound.
There are family secrets, multi-layered love interests all against the backdrop of Guyana. My personal knowledge of this area or era are extremely limited so it was an education in itself.
This is a fairly lengthy book which requires concentration (or it did for me) take your time to read, digest and enjoy it. Especially good for lovers of historical fiction, the style and complexity of the writing warranted a raise from a 3 to a 4 star for me.
Thanks to the author, publisher and netgalley for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
October 20, 2017
This book is an amazing five star! I was eagerly awaiting its arrival, as it's the third and last in the series "The Quint Chronicles". The other two are just as brilliant and this author is one of my favourites. You could read this book as a standalone but I really think it's well worth the money to get the first two, so that you can start at the beginning. This story is set in British Guiana in the 1930's. Mary Grace is the coloured, adopted daughter of the white, sugar plantation owner, Yo Yo Smedley-Cox. Mary Grace has always been told she is adopted, but later finds out she is Yo Yo's daughter and her father is George Quint, her Aunt Winnie's coloured husband. The "Quint Chronicles" first book starts when Winnie and Yo Yo were children and Winnie fell in love with George. This situation obviously brought the couple lots of troubles and racism however mainly due to the strength and character, of Winnie, the romance blossomed. In our story of Mary Grace we find that she struggles very much to fit in and when she falls in love with a white man, the romance is doomed because even though she thinks her colour does not matter, society does!
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