Special thanks to @bibliolifestyle @blackstonepublishing for my gifted copy & @librofm for my gifted ALC‼️

Charles B. Fancher absolutely delivered with this book. It was richly layered and unfolds poetically through a multitude of characters transitioning from slavery to independence while also exploring the ties between an enslaved family and their plantation owners. With such a strong opening readers are immediately pulled into the story as Felix H. Parker is being laid to rest and someone from his past returns seeking reconciliation. 

There were so many unforgettable characters I was torn apart after what happened with Plessant. I also couldn’t believe Addie was seeking forgiveness after what she’d done to Felix or the fact he’d even consider forgiving her. Claude Parker was an absolute monster that showed how easy a person can turn evil for their own financial gain. He would stop at nothing to salvage his reputation and hold on to his family’s status even if it meant he had to lie.

As the novel progresses the vivid details and depth of the authors writing really brought to life an appropriate depiction of the time period portrayed in the book. The fact the author wove in pieces of his own family history made it all the more compelling. I also can’t get over how strong Felix’s character was. To see him go through so much from childhood to adulthood the trauma he endured ran deep but he never let it break him. 

Overall, the book was amazing but I felt there were some things that deserved to be fleshed out more. The pacing was perfect and the book held an even tone that made it easy to follow. Exploring the struggles of Black Americans after slavery, the violent treatment they continued to endure, the ties the formerly enslaved had with their owners, the rise of the KKK, the constant rebuilding, and fight for equality Fancher brings readers a true masterpiece. Ya’ll should know by now that historical fiction don’t miss‼️