One of my resolutions is to be more careful about making sure I read books which are about characters of color and/or by authors of color. I've been following the calls for diversity and the pushbacks saying there is already tons of diversity, but we're simply not paying attention to it. And one name that comes up over and over and over again as a recommendation in the romance genre is Beverly Jenkins. Jenkins is a grand dame of the genre full stop - her sweeping historicals are beloved. She is an author of color and writes largely about characters of color so if you've never picked her up before, do so now!

FORBIDDEN is, in fact, a great place to start, especially if you're in the bag for non-Regency historicals. The story of Rhine and Eddy, FORBIDDEN deals with issues of racial identity, belonging, family, hope, immigration, despair, frustration, and America's awful sin of racism in general. It's a book I would recommend the next time I'm teaching a sociology class on racism - this microcosm of the experience is so well presented. If you're a fan of Piper Huguley's work, for example, there is great evidence that she draws on Jenkins heavily.

Rhine's story is particularly gripping for me. A biracial, educated individual, Rhine has spent most of his life trying to pass off as a white man. This is not just to advance in life and have opportunities black people simply did not in this era (Old West Gold Rush-y), but because he was often afraid for safety and because he felt he fit into neither world. His relationship with Eddy teaches him otherwise, but you can absolutely see why he would make the choices he made.

I hugged this book when I was done. I was taken in by the language and the narrative and the description - it all just worked for me. If you like or are open to books set in the American Old West, I'd highly recommend giving FORBIDDEN a chance. I don't see how you'd regret it.

Book Summary

USA Today bestselling author Beverly Jenkins returns with the first book in a breathtaking new series set in the Old West

Rhine Fontaine is building the successful life he's always dreamed of—one that depends upon him passing for White. But for the first time in years, he wishes he could step out from behind the façade. The reason: Eddy Carmichael, the young woman he rescued in the desert. Outspoken, defiant, and beautiful, Eddy tempts Rhine in ways that could cost him everything . . . and the price seems worth paying.

Eddy owes her life to Rhine, but she won't risk her heart for him. As soon as she's saved enough money from her cooking, she'll leave this Nevada town and move to California. No matter how handsome he is, no matter how fiery the heat between them, Rhine will never be hers. Giving in for just one night might quench this longing. Or it might ignite an affair as reckless and irresistible as it is forbidden . . .