3.5 stars. The blend of fact and fiction makes for tedious reading at times, but it's worth the effort to get such a detailed look at the power and status structure of a small farming community in Louisiana before, during, and after the Civil War. There is so much more to it than just slave vs. free. It's interesting to see how the author's family tree progressed from slave to corporate VP in 7 generations.

"Family is everything... A tree without roots cannot survive."

"Sometimes while you wait for what you think is better, what is good enough slips away."

"Fire burns hot and hides everything."

I really enjoyed this historical fiction novel! I loved that it chronicled four generations through the novel. The pictures and documents that were included throughout the book were an added bonus! Each woman's story was gripping and captivating. The book is a bit long-winded though and the last few chapters in particular got a little redundant and summary like.

This is a memoir or genealogical account of seven generations of women, also known as the “Women of Cane River.” There are copies of papers that document the Creole lineage, which I found out originated in France.

This Oprah’s Book Club selection not only educated, but enlightened me to some of the struggles of our ancestors. It solidified a known fact that our history is rich and full of secrets. As I was reading it, it put me in the mind of “Roots”, as told you Alex Haley and “Jubilee” by Margaret Walker.

I highly recommend this

I listened to this excellent, gut-wrenching story over a couple of days. While there are many great books giving a glimpse into the evils of slavery, such as Frederick Douglass' autobiography, none I've read do so in such a way that leaves the reader feeling the helplessness of their situation. In particular, this one focuses on the stories of women, which gives a unique and totally different perspective.

It was a good read. It opens a window into a time when slavery was at its peak. Reading about the abominations carried out on the people of colour and their sheer will to create a better life for each new generation, makes me appreciate their strong willed women.

Truly beautiful writing but I wasn't drawn in so completely to be obsessed but I do love a good multi generation story.

3.75 stars. I think the book was good for its purpose, but it is super long and tedious to read. If you are into history, this one is for you!!

This book will make you appreciate much of which we take for granted everyday. The narrative is told so well- through numerous viewpoints.

3.5 stars. There is so much to like about this book: the factual history each story is bound to, the practical resilience of the women of each generation, the constant push for just a little bit of respect. I gave it three stars though because I felt the linear structure was a left me wanting more complexity. But I’m not an author and it may have been too difficult follow the journey of so many characters.

I picked this book up at a used book sale. It is a bit older, but the story of slavery and families is always relevant. This story was written by the author about her own great-grandmother and her family. The story was powerful and the pictures added a lovely touch.

I’m a historical fiction fanatic! This is one of my favorite!

Interesting novel based on the researched history of the author's family tree going back several generations. It sounds dry, but wasn't in the least. It covers the time period from before the civil war to the 1930's, and four major women characters. I liked that there was a family tree in the front of the book that helped to keep everyone straight in my mind.