Golden Poppies (referring to the California state flower) is a historical fiction book that takes place in Oakland, CA, in the 1860s. I didn't know this book was part of a series, but it was good on its own. It follows the lives of several families of different color that are intertwined by blood, trying to make a better life for themselves after the end of the Civil War. I found the characters likable and the story heartfelt and entertaining. ( )

Generally sticking to the 1900's when I read historical fiction, I departed from that and read this one based on rave reviews. I was not let down. I appreciate the author's raw, unapologetic truth during the time period and enjoyed how well the story kept me reading on to the next chapter.

Despite this, it wasn't a book I'd read again. It was enjoyable.

Thank you Netgalley for allowing me to read and give my honest opinion. ( )

When I started reading this book, I did not know that it is part of a series. I am glad I didn’t as I would have passed on this book. If you are reluctant to jump into the middle of a series (as I am), I assure you that this book did fine as a stand-alone. I enjoyed the historical aspects of the story – the Pullman Strike, women’s suffrage, the anti-lynching campaign, and the fight for racial equality. But the best part of the book were the two families at the core of the story.

At the beginning of the book, Lisbeth and her daughter Sadie journey from Oakland CA to Chicago so Lisbeth can be with her childhood nanny and wet-nurse Mattie. Upon arrival in Oakland Sadie meets other members of Mattie’s family – daughter Jordan and granddaughter Naomi. It is now the 1890s and these two families – one from a wealthy plantation owner, the other slaves on that plantation – have a long history with each other.

I truly cared about the characters, holding my breath when some of them were threatened and endangered. The story invoked a wide range of emotions within me – grief, joy, fear, anger, triumph, pride.

I enjoyed Ibrahim’s smooth style of writing and will be reading more of her books. If you love a story with strong female characters, I highly recommend her books.

My favorite quote: “You set your fear right next to your hope until you know which one is your truth.” ( )