A review by brianaisgoingplaces
Indigo by Beverly Jenkins

challenging informative inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

I knew that Beverly Jenkins didn’t get to where she was for no reason, but I am so happy I finally read one of her books and learned why straight from the source. Indigo is the story of Hester, a determined and brave young woman doing her part to help runaway slaves on the underground railroad. One night, she encounters a man who has been badly beaten, almost to the point of death. As he recovers, Hester decides he is one of the rudest people she’s met, and the Black Daniel discovers he may have met his match. Soon, their hatred for each other takes a turn, and it’s delicious. 

Both of these characters are wonderful in their own ways. They each have full personalities that complement each other, and it’s fun to watch them on the page. The story progresses a bit slowly, but it serves to build tension well, both romantically and otherwise. 

Indigo isn’t just Hester and Galen’s love story. We get to meet a lot of interesting characters, and we get a glimpse into how it felt to live as a free Black person during that time. 

The only qualm I had with the novel was Hester and Galen’s…appetite. It got to be a bit repetitive and at some points I just wanted the story to move along. 

I cannot wait to read Beverly Jenkins whole body of work! 


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