Snow
White and the Seven Dwarfs… reimagined.
When a wagon train of Black pioneers
rescues the seven orphaned Dalton cousins from the side of the trail, it seems
like an answer to their prayers. As they roll west toward Kansas,
fourteen-year-old Levi Dalton is dazzled by the beautiful Mrs. Mallone. She's a
healer, and her knowledge of medicines and herbs inspires Levi to want to
become a doctor. Maybe then he can stop people from dying of fevers and
illnesses like his folks did.
But Mrs. Mallone's stepdaughter, Hopeful,
warns Levi not to become too attached to the healer. Levi dismisses her
warnings and his own misgivings until the day he sees something dreadful.
Levi knows he needs to tell someone what
he’s seen before it’s too late. But will anyone believe the story of a
fourteen-year-old orphan? Will anyone stand up to evil, no matter how
beautifully it’s packaged?
One Bad Apple is a thrilling read. A fantastic historical based retelling. I was impressed at how seamlessly all the elements from the classic tale were woven in especially in the 1800’s setting. Which is a testament to the author’s skill; she knows how to craft an engaging tale. I felt like I was eating the wagon dust right along with them. The characters pop off the page, having the story told through the eyes of fourteen-year-old Levi was brilliant. It brings a certain candor to everything. I appreciate the inclusion of a diverse cast, and how it dealt with racism and class issues. Which seemed to parallel what we’re still fighting presently and made it all the more profound.
Hopeful made for an excellent heroine I loved that while she was strong she had a kind spirit that showed even when she was facing injustice. She’s possibly my new favorite incarnation of Snow White.
A must-read!
Giveaway
