Fox Creek
by M. E. Torrey

Set in 1843, the story follows Monette, a six-year-old girl who transitions from the privileged daughter of a prosperous sugar planter to a slave. After her father’s death, she is sold into slavery because of her mixed race. During her journey to the auction, she is protected by a boy named Cyrus. They are both brought by the Jensey family from the Fox Creek Plantation in Louisiana. Cyrus is assigned to the fields, while Monette becomes a companion to the planter's daughter, Kate.

The novel stands out with its profound emotional depth and poignant heartache, vividly portraying the experiences and struggles of individuals on both sides of the slavery era. It intricately weaves together personal stories that highlight the harsh realities of enslaved people while also examining the moral dilemmas faced by those who perpetuated the system. Set against the backdrop of a turbulent period in American history, the book delves into themes of resilience, identity, and the quest for freedom, offering readers an understanding of the complexities and contradictions of this dark chapter in the nation's past.

I was thoroughly engaged in the first part of the book, captivated by the rich characters and intricate plot development. The author’s vivid descriptions and well-crafted dialogue drew me into the story, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the story. However, as I progressed into the later sections, my focus occasionally wavered due to some pacing issues and less compelling subplots. Despite this, my overall appreciation for the book remained intact. Nevertheless, I found the ending to be quite abrupt; it lacked the depth and resolution I was hoping for, leaving several key questions unanswered and a lingering sense of incompleteness.

What an entrancing read about the antebellum south. The characters were brought alive by the author and the scenery became a character itself. With a strong central character in Monette, you see her life from childhood as her circumstances change over time. The periphery characters around her are well developed. I thoroughly enjoyed the book until the ending which I personally thought was abrupt and a bit bizarre. It felt like a longer book was unceremoniously cut in half. I do hope there is a sequel as I really would like to learn more about what happens to all of them.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an early copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions in my review are entirely my own.

My reaction to the novel was deeply emotional and enthusiastic. I was captivated by the shifting points of view, the rich character development, and the emotional struggles each character faced. The story moved me to laughter, tears, and joy, and I felt deeply connected to the themes of love, family, friendship, and personal growth. While I found the ending satisfying, I wished the story continued because I was so invested in the journey.

Fox Creek takes place in Louisiana from 1843-1851. Monette was six years old in 1843 she was a loved daughter of a rich man on a sugar plantation. When her father died she was sold into slavery because she was of mixed race. She is sold to another English speaking sugar plantation to a family that started her out as a playmate for their daughter Kate. before Monette had been sold she befriended a 13 year old boy named Cyrus who is also sold to the same platation. Monette is bilingual and speaks french as well as english. She is only allowed to be a "sister" to Kate until Monette is forced to be a house servant. For the next seven years she is forced to keep house and be a baby sitter for the twins who are born shortly after she arrives on the plantation. She slowly forgets who Cyrus the boy she befriended and he becomes a field hand. But Cyrus has not forgotten Monette and he is always watching to keep her safe. I good read that keeps me interested in the outcome of the characters.

ARC from NetGalley
Thank you to the author and publisher.
Publish Date: Sep 01 2025

Rating: 5/5

Knowing the author's previous writing experience I did not come into the novel with too high expectations. This was her first, adult content novel. After finishing I can't wait for her next one. This novel rivals the likes of Yellow Wife. I was pleasantly pleased.

Plot:
Starting in 1843, the story follows an interracial child as she moves from being the pampered daughter of a rich, sugar planter to a slave. While on route to auction, she is protected by a boy, Cyrus. They are purchased by the same family. He is sent to the fields, she becomes a playmate to a planter's daughter, not understanding yet how her life has changed. This story follows her and the lives of those around her as she struggles to find her place in the world. She is between two races and fits in neither.

Praise:
- plot and writing style
- descriptions of environment and characters were easy to picture
- perspectives of multiple characters; seeing things from both sides of the racial divide
- characters easily able to be liked or disliked
- pulls the reader along; limited doldrums
- stimulated emotions, showing connection with characters
- realistic scenarios
- premonitions which leave the reader pondering what they mean
- the ending, everything wasn't wrapped up in a bow; leaves the reader with questions and pondering

Critiques:
- scents were mentioned regularly and I was unsure why

Fav Quote:
“...wondering if life was simply a series of compromises. Dishonest compromises that presented to the world a face of honesty and integrity.”

Would I recommend it to a friend?
Absolutely!