Reviews

Embers on the Wind by Lisa Williamson Rosenberg

jaderobynn's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

Honestly. I wanted to give this a two star rating, but the second half of the book picked up to the point that I even somewhat enjoyed it. But for the most part, I had to force myself to finish this book. It’s very hard to follow, the timeline jumps around (which usually I have no issue with) but there is little to no explanation of these characters and how they relate to the story line until over halfway through the novel, and that’s only if you remember the random instances from the beginning of the book. Some characters story lines just end with no questions answered, and some things seem to be added purely for shock factor and no added depth to the story. Although the author does create several emotionally moving points, realizations and facts of a truly horrific part of history, I would not recommend this book.

nonna's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

Loved this book. The on,y thing that kept it from a 5 rating was how often it switched time and character. It was hard to keep up.

mrskeys10's review

Go to review page

4.0

I couldn't put this book down. I was completely sucked in and never lost my focus while reading this book. This was very well written. There were visions, ghosts and intertwined lives that came together for one compelling story. Highly recommend this

zikeyag's review

Go to review page

3.0

Format:

jaderobynn's review

Go to review page

3.0

Honestly. I wanted to give this a two star rating, but the second half of the book picked up to the point that I even somewhat enjoyed it. But for the most part, I had to force myself to finish this book. It’s very hard to follow, the timeline jumps around (which usually I have no issue with) but there is little to no explanation of these characters and how they relate to the story line until over halfway through the novel, and that’s only if you remember the random instances from the beginning of the book. Some characters story lines just end with no questions answered, and some things seem to be added purely for shock factor and no added depth to the story. Although the author does create several emotionally moving points, realizations and facts of a truly horrific part of history, I would not recommend this book.

marie_gg's review

Go to review page

5.0

I read Embers on the Wind not long after Girl, Woman, Other, and at times I was actually confusing myself!! Both novels were created with interlocking short stories. Most of the characters were connected to someone else in the novel, but each had her own story. Once again I regretted not taking notes and writing down names because at times it got confusing when a new character was introduced!

With that said, I highly recommend this novel if you're comfortable with ghost stories and reading about trauma. It delves deeply into generational racial trauma, and Rosenberg does a beautiful job weaving together the stories of the runaways with Black, white, and biracial people today. Wonderful book...although I definitely want to read some chronological novels after the last two...where I can keep better track of all the characters!

kellyreader's review

Go to review page

3.0

Not my style

I pretty much know what genre I like to read, but I try other styles from time to time and am often disappointed. It's not so much the author's fault, but I couldn't follow all the different years that things were happening.

jascolib's review against another edition

Go to review page

dark mysterious reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

3.0

saphara's review against another edition

Go to review page

emotional inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

I usually don’t review books, but this one really stuck with me. There is multiple intertwined stories across about 170 years. The book is interesting and keeps a good pace. The stories are powerful and female -centric. I highly recommend this book. 

bookish_browngirl's review

Go to review page

4.0

Complex and Intriguing.

Attracted by its summary, I delved into this book with high expectations, but keeping up with the intricate plot and numerous characters was a challenge due to the time-traveling aspect.

Overall, the book was a fascinating read. I feel that I may need to revisit it to fully appreciate its depth, but I would recommend it to other readers.