Yellow Wife: A Novel

Called "simply enchanting" by New York Times bestselling author Lisa Wingate, this harrowing story follows an enslaved woman forced to barter love and freedom while living in the most infamous slave jail in Virginia.

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Published Dec 28, 2021

288 pages

Average rating: 8.46

438 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

PatriciaMP
Apr 26, 2025
8/10 stars
Very interesting read
Jaibee
May 11, 2024
8/10 stars
Good read
literarily_occupied
Aug 12, 2025
10/10 stars
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

An impactful historical fiction that is inspired by the true story of Mary Lumpkin and the Lumpkin Jail in Richmond, Virginia.

Set during the 1800's in the midst of slavery, the character of Pheby Delores Brown immediately pulls you in. She's been promised her freedom on her eighteenth birthday but events will take her in to the hands of a white man dubbed "Bully" who owns a slave jail/punishment/trade establishment referred to as the "Devil's Half Acre".

Sadeqa Johnson's writing is fluid and eloquent and for fans of historical fiction this story is not to be missed.

"Mama always said that a grateful heart served as a magnet for miracles, so I latched onto the worship and gave thanks."
Paris1989
Jul 22, 2025
8/10 stars
parts were hard to get through because of how raw and real the story felt, but that’s what made it so impactful. It’s one of those books that sticks with you after you put it down. Definitely recommend if you’re looking for a story that’s both emotional and eye-opening.
Nylajtoday
Feb 23, 2025
3/10 stars
It starts off slow but becomes a little eventful. Main character will have you mad the whole.

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