Precious

(“In His Sight”)

The novel, “Precious” (In His Sight), tells of the myriad, life-altering U.S. Government-sanctioned and implemented, changes…, societal (1864 – 1887), events, that followed, the conclusion of the American Civil War, that shaped the “Re-United States of America”.

Shortly before the election of Abraham Lincoln as the 16th President of the United States, Eleanor Leary-a young Irish-Immigrant educator-, is summarily discharged by her employer, the Master of Richmond Virginia’s, Rosewood Cotton Plantation, for the “Heinous-Crime”, of teaching a black-slave, to read and write.

Disappointed, depressed, and disillusioned, Eleanor Leary, relocates, north of the Mason-Dixon line, to the northern state of Pennsylvania, marries…, and for the entirety of the war, teaches at the town’s local college.

Rebecca Billing-one of the two white children that Eleanor had taught before the war; Rebecca after having left Virginia…; and, following a year, living as a captive of the Comanche-returns to Richmond, and gives birth to a “mixed-blood”, child.

Because of unrelenting racial-bigotry inflicted upon her son, Rebecca leaves Richmond Virginia, and settles in Lost Springs, Kansas.

During the post-war period of “Reconstruction”, both Eleanor, and Rebecca- separated by time and half a continent-, work tirelessly, assisting the former…, now freed black-slaves, and the “Plains Indians” …, now referred to as “The Reservation-Indians”, to acquire the skills needed to assimilate…, and to survive in Euro-Centric, American society.

Radio interview for the book Precious ("In His Sight")

Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐
A powerful study of moral courage and resilience
This novel is a testament to the courage of teachers and caregivers who labored unseen to shape a better world in the face of brutal bigotry and social upheaval.

Reviewed by James, Community Historian

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A moving and beautifully written historical saga
The prose is lyrical yet grounded and the historical detail is vivid without being overwhelming which makes Eleanor and Rebecca’s journey deeply affecting.

Reviewed by Dr. Linda, Anthropologist and Author

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An impassioned narrative that speaks to our times
The author draws poignant parallels between past and present through well‑drawn characters whose experiences illuminate the long arc of racial and social justice.

Reviewed by Kevin, Journalist and Race Relations Commentator

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A timely reminder of shared humanity across divides
Blake’s storytelling reminds us that healing divides requires courage from ordinary people who choose compassion over prejudice and education over oppression.

Reviewed by Dr. Rose, Social Justice Advocate

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A vivid and educational deep dive into Reconstruction
You feel the pulse of 1860s America in every chapter and leave with a richer understanding of how intertwined the destinies of freed men, displaced children, and new settlers truly were.

Reviewed by David, Museum Curator

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A stirring story of unity amid division
This novel delicately balances personal loss, political upheaval, and cultural collision while showing how ordinary people can become agents of change through quiet acts of love.

Reviewed by Angela, Author and Literary Critic

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A heartfelt tribute to forgotten educators
Blake centers his story on Eleanor and Rebecca whose dedication to teaching across racial lines offers a profoundly inspiring testament to the power of knowledge and empathy.

Reviewed by Robert, Education Historian

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An evocative and richly layered historical novel
This book masterfully interweaves Irish immigrant struggle, African American emancipation, and Native American displacement into a seamless, emotionally resonant journey of survival and solidarity.

Reviewed by Dr. Emma, Lecturer in Ethnic Studies

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐
A compelling exploration of courage and compassion
The narrative bridges regions, races, and generations with grace and insight offering a vivid portrayal of societal rebuilding and the human spirit’s capacity for redemption.

Reviewed by Michael, Cultural Studies Scholar

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A deeply moving portrait of resilience in a turbulent era
Blake delivers a powerful and compassionate story that shines light on overlooked heroes of post‑Civil War America and draws you into the lives of characters who refused to let hatred define them.

Reviewed by Dr. Sarah, Professor of American History