Island Queen: A Novel

I adored this absolute treasure of a book. I’m a fan of Vanessa Riley’s romances, so was daunted when I saw it was over 500 pages – but her writing is so smooth and clear, her storytelling so compelling. I whizzed through it in just a few days. Island Queen is based on the true-life story of Dorothy Kirwan Thomas, it’s rich with historical detail and deeply atmospheric. This lively account of her fascinating and inspirational life is the narrative of the C18th I’ve been longing for, bravo Vanessa Riley!

I just finished this book and my heart is so full. What a woman Mrs. Dorothy Kirwan Thomas was. What a magnificent, flawed force of nature with an indomitable spirit. Vanessa Riley made me cheer so hard for this woman. This was the kind of book where on one page I was pumping my fist going, "YES girl, you TELL him!" And ten pages later I was reaching for the Kleenex, and my husband was going, "Um, Courtney? Are you ok???" But my point is, you will feel ALL of the feelings with this one. I congratulate Ms. Riley because this is a triumph. I am so glad Mrs. Dorothy Kirwan Thomas's story has been told, has been finally been brought to the forefront where it belongs. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.

One of the best books I have ever read.

Island Queen is a fantastic read. A strong woman putting her strength and love on the line for her family. Dorothy overcome so much.Many incidents in this novel make you think you are in the present day,rather than 1700 . History buffs will love this book, anyone who wants to read of courage of a black woman taking slavery, rape and brutality and making it a stepping stool will love this book!

Was poorly organized and very boring.