I loved this book from the historical accuracy of New Orleans to the characters and the bond they have. I felt like it lacked closure and would like to see a second book

What made me read this book is a fact that there is a ghost and the time takes place in Louisiana in 1950s.
I liked that. I got what I wanted. I liked it.
The story of three sisters were interesting, but I have to say because of so many descriptions the lot somehow got me a bit lost along the way. Also, I wished the book was longer. It ended so quickly and I have enjoyed the atmosphere and the sisterhood feeling in it. Very recommended read!

I received this from Netgalley.com for a review.

Thirteen-year-old Bonavere (known as Bonnie), embarks on a journey to bring her sister home, venturing through fabled Red Honey Swamp, and the city's vibrant and brutal history.

I loved the description, but didn't love the book. It was densely written, lots of words with little impact.

2☆

Set in the 50's in the French Quarter, the Fayette sisters have never lived anywhere else. While their parents come off as aloof and not very parental. The youngest sister, 13-year-old Bonavere or Bonnie is very close to both of her sisters, especially Connie. 

There are hints of insanity in the family and this being New Orleans, anything is possible. Ghosts, voodoo, swamps and crazy eyed girls found lost in the woods. When Connie asks Bonnie to hold on to a special necklace for her, it is the last time anyone sees her. While no one seems overly concerned, Bonnie is determined to find out what happened to her sister.

Racism was going strong and it helped no one that Bonnie's best friend, Saul is black. When Bonnie asks for his help he can't say no. Even if it means putting his own family in danger. The police aren't helping and the adults aren't helping so off they go to the swamp for answers.

The descriptions of the city were spot on. As was the racism. It seemed unfinished however. There were things that happened with other characters but little information on their motives and parts of it at the end didn't seem believable.

NetGalley/May 1st 2019 by Guernica Editions

I was interested in reading this book because it’s setting is New Orleans, my favorite city. I love the ghost lore and voodoo vibes of the city and this book touched on that history. However, the story began in January and the heat was always discussed and made me think it should have began in the sultry summer.

I kept thinking this book would make an excellent scary movie but I thought the story dragged in places and it was hard to follow in other places. I also did not like the ending of the story after I invested the time to get there. That being said, if you love Nawlins and ghost stories, give it a shot.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and Guernica Editions for my honest review.

Young girls are going missing in Tolouse Louisiana. With the history that the area has, it is not a good sign. Years before two girls went missing and were never found. Now, Fritzie and her younger sister, Bonnie are looking for their missing sister, Connie.
They suspect one of the towns leading citizens. Dorian LaSalle. He's a school teacher, that taught both Connie and Fritzie. Sometimes he would look at Connie in a peculiar way. Bonnie is determined to find her sister. No matter what kind of danger she is in. Fritzie is just as determined to protect Bonnie. Losing one sister was bad enough. Losing another would be unbearable.
Great storyline. The Author is very descriptive of what is taking place and where it is happening. Very easy to see a picture of what she is describing.
Exceptional read!
Recommended!

This book is difficult for me to review. I love books set in the South, I love when an author uses words to paint a scene, a feeling, a character. Mission accomplished. But my goodness, there was just too much of this, it got in the way of the story. Some excellent editing would make this a much better book.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC.

Being a Southerner, I love the mysteries of New Orleans. This author’s descriptions of the city and the swamps had me hooked. I loved the character of Bonavere, and her quest to find out what happened to her sister was intriguing. The story may have been unrealistic in parts but I loved it and embraced it. Thanks to Guernica Editions and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

Book Court - Where I'm the Judge and Jury

CHARGE (What is the author trying to say?): To explore the true nature of insanity

FACTS: On an oppressive New Orleans afternoon, the middle Fayette sister disappears. Her disappearance is ultimately traced to a family with secrets – a family wrestling with insanity. The prose is beautiful, but the story is improbable. If you can suspend reality, the plot twists will entertain.

VERDICT (Was the author successful?): Not guilty. The story was unrealistic, more in the nature of fantasy.

#NetGalley #BonavereHowl