Josie's Prize: Book One

In this sweeping historical saga that begins just before the Civil War, readers are introduced to young heroine, Josephine Cooper; more affectionately known as Josie. As the daughter of a plantation owner's son and a former prostitute from New Orleans, Josie is caught between the worlds of freedom and slavery and black and white. She incurs her grandfather's hatred and wrath and spares no opportunity to mistreat and physically abuse her. When his son is away from the plantation he takes the opportunity to punish Josie's ill-fated run for freedom by branding her; nearly killing her in the process. Later, when Josie arrives in New York she finds even more adversaries awaiting her. Through it all Josie finds the courage to fight for her freedom and to find her voice.