Alexandra Ripley's "On Leaving Charleston" is a captivating tale that takes us back to 19th century Charleston, South Carolina, where we follow the journey of a young woman named Sarah Grimké. Born into a privileged life as the daughter of a wealthy plantation owner, Sarah finds herself grappling with the constraints of societal expectations, while yearning for her own independence and a deeper understanding of truth.
The novel immerses us in Sarah's childhood, where she is raised on a plantation surrounded by the contradictions of an opulent existence intertwined with the harsh realities of slavery. Ripley's vivid descriptions transport us to this era, painting a stark contrast between Sarah's familiar world of luxury and the underlying cruelties endured by the enslaved. Through her evocative prose, the author establishes a connection between readers and Sarah's internal conflicts and challenges.
As Sarah grows older, she becomes increasingly aware of the injustices and horrors of the institution of slavery. This newfound awareness fuels her determination to bring about change and fight for her own freedom, as well as that of those around her. However, her path is fraught with obstacles and challenges that test her resolve and courage, making for a tension-filled narrative that keeps readers engaged until the very end.
Available on Audible
Ripley skillfully explores complex themes of love, loyalty, and the conflicting pressures imposed by society. The story delves into the moral dilemmas faced by individuals seeking to challenge the status quo and fight for justice. Through Sarah's journey, readers are confronted with the harsh realities of slavery and the struggles faced by those who dared to challenge societal norms.
"On Leaving Charleston" is an emotionally charged novel that delves deep into the intricacies of human nature and the relentless pursuit of justice. Ripley's storytelling prowess, coupled with her well-developed characters, makes this historical fiction an engrossing read for anyone interested in the struggles faced by individuals in the antebellum South who dared to defy expectations and fight for change.
What are readers saying?
Alexandra Ripley's novel "On Leaving Charleston" has received a range of opinions from readers. Set in the early 1900s, the story revolves around Elizabeth Tradd, a young woman navigating the complexities of family, love, and societal expectations in Charleston, South Carolina.
Some readers lauded the book for its vivid portrayal of Charleston and its rich historical context. They commended Ripley for her attention to detail, which allowed them to fully immerse themselves in the story. These readers found the characters to be well-developed and appreciated the glimpse into the social dynamics and customs of the time.
However, other reviewers found the characters to be difficult to relate to and the plot lacking in depth. They felt that the story lacked a strong central conflict, making it challenging to fully engage with the narrative. These readers also noted that the pacing of the novel was slow, with certain parts dragging on unnecessarily.
Some readers also expressed disappointment with the romantic aspect of the book. They believed that the love interests were underdeveloped and lacked chemistry, resulting in an unconvincing portrayal of romantic relationships. Additionally, a few readers found the dialogue to be stilted and unrealistic, hampering their ability to connect with the characters and their conversations.
Despite these critiques, many readers still found enjoyment in the novel's historical elements and the insight it provided into a bygone era. They appreciated Ripley's research and the integration of real-life events, which added depth and authenticity to the story.
OnLeavingCharleston SouthernNovel FamilySaga