I devoured this book.

We are following a young slave girl, Pheby, who is the child of her Master and therefore treated slightly better than the other slaves. She was educated in secret and promised her freedom when she turned 18.

However, just before her birthday she is thrown into the depths of slavery at the Devil's Half-Acre. One of the worst 'slave jails' where slaves are sent for extreme punishment, and selling.

Pheby's story is one of perseverance and a mother's love. What this woman endured for the sake of her children is truly unfathomable. I was immediately captured by the beautiful writing and haunting story. Pheby felt so alive to me that I struggled to put this book down and when I was not reading it it was consuming my thoughts. You will find yourself crying alongside Pheby as life throws everything in her way and she still has the strength to overcome and pull through.

this is a tale of heartbreak and misery that will leave you haunted by the realities of our past.

Thanks to NetGalley for the review copy, all opinions are my own.