Libertie: A Novel by Kaitlyn Greenidge

(Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

The critically acclaimed and Whiting Award–winning author of We Love You, Charlie Freeman returns with an unforgettable story about the meaning of freedom.
 
Coming of age as a free-born Black girl in Reconstruction-era Brooklyn, Libertie Sampson was all too aware that her purposeful mother, a practicing physician, had a vision for their future together: Libertie would go to medical school and practice alongside her. But Libertie, drawn more to music than science, feels stifled by her mother’s choices and is hungry for something else—is there really only one way to have an autonomous life? And she is constantly reminded that, unlike her mother, who can pass, Libertie has skin that is too dark.

When a young man from Haiti proposes to Libertie and promises she will be his equal on the island, she accepts, only to discover that she is still subordinate to him and all men. As she tries to parse what freedom actually means for a Black woman, Libertie struggles with where she might find it—for herself and for generations to come.
 
Inspired by the life of one of the first Black female doctors in the United States and rich with historical detail, Kaitlyn Greenidge’s new novel resonates in our times and is perfect for readers of Brit Bennett, Min Jin Lee, and Yaa Gyasi.

my thoughts:

Wow. What a book! I absolutely fell in love with Kaitlyn Greenidge's latest novel, Libertie. First off, that book cover - beautiful! Secondly, the description of the story - sounds like a must-read to me. And, finally, the story itself - terrific! Yep, I truly enjoyed sitting down with a huge cuppa and reading all about Libertie Sampson.

So, what's the story about? Well, its' about race, feminism, history, the mother-daughter relationship, and so much more. This is one book that will draw you in and keep you reading all day and night. It's riveting, fascinating, and thought-provoking. You can't help but befriend the characters and root for them. You want the very best for them, especially Libertie, a young woman who is just trying to figure out what she really wants from the world that seems to be changing all the time.  Her mom is a physician and wants Libertie to follow in her footsteps. Libertie loves music and doesn't see "doctor" in her future. What's she to do? Well, fall in love and head to Haiti.  Unfortunately, once there, she finds unhappiness instead of happily every after.  Her husband's family does not liker her, religion controls everything, women are not treated equally, and her husband seems to support everyone but her. Once again, Libertie must figure out what she wants and what she needs to do for herself and her future. And, that is all I will write about this wonderful story. You must read it for yourself to experience the vivid descriptions, rich historical details, and intriguing storylines. It's most definitely a must-read!

I would happily recommend Libertie to fans of Greenidge's writing and to anyone looking for their next great read - you will LOVE this book!

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book!