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Wild, Beautiful, and Free  By  cover art

Wild, Beautiful, and Free

By: Sophfronia Scott
Narrated by: Channie Waites
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Publisher's summary

From award-winning author Sophfronia Scott comes the story of one young woman’s bold journey to reclaim her birthright and carve out her own place in a world that tells her she doesn’t belong.

Born the daughter of an enslaved woman and a Louisiana plantation owner, Jeannette Bébinn is raised alongside her white half sister—until her father suddenly dies. His vindictive wife refuses twelve-year-old Jeannette her inheritance and sells her into slavery.

Now on her own, Jeannette must fight the injustices she faces because of her mixed race. She escapes enslavement and travels from Mississippi to Philadelphia to New York to Ohio, all while searching for purpose, love, and her place in a country torn asunder by the burgeoning Civil War.

Everything seems to fall into place when she meets Christian Robichaud Colchester, the white proprietor of Fortitude Mansion, a safe haven for escaped slaves where Jeannette teaches. But despite their instant connection, Jeannette isn’t convinced she belongs in his circle.

In a world that tells her she doesn’t fit anywhere, Jeannette must decide what’s more important: bending to the expectations of others or embracing her true self.

©2023 Sophfronia Scott (P)2022 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved.

Critic reviews

“The evocative, melodic voice of Channie Waites brings to life the character of Jeannette, who struggles to find her identity and reclaim her birthright.… Listeners meet many well-crafted characters—sympathetic and despicable—whom Waites makes very real.… There are some similarities to Jane Eyre in this historical romance, but this literary work is unique and engaging. Listeners will enjoy the action and the heroine's self-actualization.”AudioFile Magazine, Earphones Award Winner

“Skillfully crafted…this evocative novel brings full circle the power of love and forgiveness. A worthwhile and insightful read that lingers in the mind long after the last page is turned.”Historical Novels Review

“Fresh and absorbing...”Ms. Magazine

What listeners say about Wild, Beautiful, and Free

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  • SP
  • 09-22-23

Locked into the book!

Definitely the story was intense at first but I needed to know what happened. Captivating!

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    5 out of 5 stars
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Well done

Sad and happy all rolled into a great books !
It is Well worth the read !


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3 people found this helpful

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    3 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Good writing. Overenthusiastic Narrator.

This story offers an important point of view of a young "mixed race" woman coming off age just as the civil war was brewing. I thought the main character's development was enlightening but was sometimes put off by the narrator's breathy enthusiasm for many significant situations. I would have liked a more serious tone.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Stunning!

This book was addicting and full of suspense! I am happy to have read it.

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6 people found this helpful

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    3 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Should have skipped the Audio Version

The narrator seems better suited for children's books. I couldn't finish. I think I would have enjoyed it better in print.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Interesting Narrative

Sometimes a little too “coincidental,” but the story was uplifting and the idea was creative.

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Riveting and lovely

Wonderful story! Historical and fabulous narration! Loved her pronunciation of the French words. I couldn’t stop listening it was so so good!!!

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5 people found this helpful

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Interesting and captivating

Excellent!!
Good story and good presentation!
I absolutely recommend this book for the history and lessons to be learned.

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    4 out of 5 stars

The ending was disappointing.

This was an excellent book all the way until the disappointing, lackluster and unfulfilling ending.

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  • AP
  • 05-19-23

Beautiful

Beautiful story of a strong woman coming to age around the American civil war. Some parts felt hard but it's not overly harsh for those of us who are more sensitive.

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10 people found this helpful