A remarkable historical novel based on the true story of Dorothy Kirwan Thomas [1756-1846]. Born enslaved on the Caribbean island Montserrat, she bought her freedom from her Irish father and rose to be come one of the most powerful landowners in the colonial West Indies. She worked for years to free her children, mother, and other relatives while building an entrepreneurial empire in several business ventures including merchant and hotelier. She often  traveled to London where she argued for rights for free Black women and became a legend in society. She saw her daughters married to prominent British men whose influence helped her in her quest for the rights of a free British subject. Riley captures her strength and determination in this stirring novel. Author's note, bibliography, reading/bookclub guide. William Morrow. 2021. Paper. NEW. $15.00