I loved the historical Black American history seamlessly woven into this. The different strategies for freeing enslaved people were fascinating to read. 

The female lead Hester is quiet, laidback, and lovely. Although she does get positively swooned, she never loses her realism/sense. Her parents’ love story was also bitterly tragic and shaped her view on love (doubly surprised that it's based on real life).

Galen, once he learned the value of please and thank you, wasn’t bad. He was a former playboy but didn’t have a wandering eye. 

It’s refreshing to see a Black woman and a deeply dark-skinned one get spoiled and live in the lap of luxury and love. Her dark skin is described beautifully and not just as “chocolateeee.” She's his jewel. Galen said ‘Anything you want I got it, baby!’ This card is limitless lol. 

The love scenes were also tasteful and sensual. They didn’t make me cringe either.

Overall, this was the first Beverly Jenkins story I’ve read. I would read more from her. Only 1 star retracted for

for Galen strong-arming her into marriage. While the characters call him out on this, and he’s sincerely apologetic, it takes away Hester’s agency. I wanted her to put away her fears and decide to love him. Some of it is intended to be comedic but still.

But bonus points for Jenine being the villain. I knew it was either going to be her or Foster. Jenkins faked us out on Foster and subverted Ginette being a hater.