A review by onemorepagecrew
Yellow Wife by Sadeqa Johnson

challenging emotional sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Yellow Wife by Sadeqa Johnson is a completely engrossing book that I couldn’t put down. It broke my heart many times and it was clear this was more historical than fiction. The author’s research was felt throughout, and every single page was utilized so effectively.  
 
The story follows an enslaved woman, Pheby, who at the beginning of the story is living with her mother on a plantation in Virginia. Nearing her 18th birthday, she is separated from her love, Essex, and is sent to an infamous jail where she becomes the mistress of the jailer. The events that happen to her and those around her shine a light on the ugliness of this jail and this period of time. 
 
There are many glowing reviews for this book out there and I fully agree. This book is a harrowing treasure that I won’t soon forget. Please read it. 
 
And to the author – a note of appreciation. The note at the end confirmed what was obvious from the book; you researched the heck out of this story.  I can only imagine the personal toll it took to bring this to print, and I am grateful I had the chance to read it. 
 
Content warnings: Slavery, Racism, Physical abuse (graphic), Child abuse, Sexual abuse, Violence 
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