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Forever Beautiful
Floretta Coleman is young, determined, and gifted. A graduate of Madame C.J. Walker’s esteemed beauty school, Floretta is on the brink of a bright future with plans to explore the world after completing her studies at Oberlin College. Her long-held dreams seem within reach until one telephone call shatters everything. Her mother, Iva Rae Coleman, has died unexpectedly. Devastated, Floretta returns to the small, all-Black town founded by enslaved ancestors to lay her mother to rest and is forced to navigate the complexities of loss and family obligation. Her younger brothers need her. So does her homeless great Aunt Sis, whose misfortune was caused by a family accident. She must grapple with these responsibilities as well as her parents’ unconventional relationship while being drawn to Packer Sims, a captivating horse rancher and Seminole Indian. Told against the rich tapestry of 1949 in the southern U.S., Floretta’s story is one of identity, self-discovery, and acceptance. Join her journey as Floretta forges a path that is forever beautiful and uniquely her own.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
226 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 4, 2024
214 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
About the author
Suzette D. Harrison
14 books275 followersSuzette D. Harrison, is an award-winning author of 10 books celebrating African American life and culture. A native Californian and the middle of three daughters, Suzette grew up in a home where reading was required, not requested. Thanks to a culinary degree in Pastry & Baking, when not busy on her next novel, you might find Suzette whipping up a batch of cupcakes.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
July 9, 2024
Fantastic story! I love reading about this time period. The things Black people endured and overcame is down right amazing. The writing was a bit choppy and didn't flow well, IMO. There were times I wondered what the story was really about. But it came together and I was completely vested in the characters and the story from beginning to end. I really would have loved more.
I'm moving right on to the 2nd book. Which is about Flo's granddaughter. Happy reading!
I'm moving right on to the 2nd book. Which is about Flo's granddaughter. Happy reading!
June 7, 2024
Forever Beautiful…All That And More!! 🥰🥰🥰
Wow and Just Wow!! I’m here to tell you that Mrs. Harrison is My Author when it comes to historical stories!! She weaves them so well and you’re so engrossed in them! An excellent storyteller is what she is!! This story was immersed in secrets, drama, family dynamics, grief, love and so much more!! “Mister-Mister-Man-Man” aka Packer Sims, was all man and all Floretta’s!! There is so much more in this story, but you’ll have to grab your own copy and delve into the world and journey of Miss Floretta Coleman!! It’s a “Forever Beautiful” world to behold!! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it!! Kudos, Suzette…Kudos!! 💜💜👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽💜💜
I purchased my book but I was also provided an advanced copy in exchange for my own honest review! 💜
Wow and Just Wow!! I’m here to tell you that Mrs. Harrison is My Author when it comes to historical stories!! She weaves them so well and you’re so engrossed in them! An excellent storyteller is what she is!! This story was immersed in secrets, drama, family dynamics, grief, love and so much more!! “Mister-Mister-Man-Man” aka Packer Sims, was all man and all Floretta’s!! There is so much more in this story, but you’ll have to grab your own copy and delve into the world and journey of Miss Floretta Coleman!! It’s a “Forever Beautiful” world to behold!! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it!! Kudos, Suzette…Kudos!! 💜💜👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽💜💜
I purchased my book but I was also provided an advanced copy in exchange for my own honest review! 💜
February 15, 2025
I absolutely loved this book for so many reasons! Being from the South, growing up on acres of land, and having Native American lineage made it feel so personal. My great-grandmother always wore two long plaits, and my grandfather’s name was Wyatt—such incredible connections! I can’t wait to read the entire series.
June 7, 2024
Forever Beautiful!!
You could just feel all of the emotions that Floretta felt come throughout the pages of this book. The grief, feelings and emotions that Floretta was feeling about her mother's death took me back to when my own Mama passed away so I understood what she was going through. There was humor contained in the book as well as especially when they thought Grandpa Wyatt had perished in the fire and he just wanted sweet potato pie. Aunt Sis was a mess too. I was killing myself laughing when she was calling Packer's son every nut under the sun except for Peanut. She also had me cracking up with where she kept her joy juice. 😂😂😂 I loved the relationship between Floretta and her cousin, Tippy. I was glad that she had Tippy as a confidant and someone she could get into shenanigans with. I hurt for Floretta for what she went through with her father but I was glad when the answers to the secrets were revealed. Judith needed some hands though and I would have gladly given them to her. 😡 Reading about the history that the book is set in was enjoyable as well as thought-provoking.
You could just feel all of the emotions that Floretta felt come throughout the pages of this book. The grief, feelings and emotions that Floretta was feeling about her mother's death took me back to when my own Mama passed away so I understood what she was going through. There was humor contained in the book as well as especially when they thought Grandpa Wyatt had perished in the fire and he just wanted sweet potato pie. Aunt Sis was a mess too. I was killing myself laughing when she was calling Packer's son every nut under the sun except for Peanut. She also had me cracking up with where she kept her joy juice. 😂😂😂 I loved the relationship between Floretta and her cousin, Tippy. I was glad that she had Tippy as a confidant and someone she could get into shenanigans with. I hurt for Floretta for what she went through with her father but I was glad when the answers to the secrets were revealed. Judith needed some hands though and I would have gladly given them to her. 😡 Reading about the history that the book is set in was enjoyable as well as thought-provoking.
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May 28, 2024Floretta Coleman is young, determined, and gifted. A graduate of Madame C.J. Walker’s esteemed beauty school, Floretta is on the brink of a bright future with plans to explore the world after completing her studies at Oberlin College. Her long-held dreams seem within reach until one telephone call shatters everything. Her mother, Iva Rae Coleman, has died unexpectedly. Devastated, Floretta returns to the small, all-Black town founded by enslaved ancestors to lay her mother to rest and is forced to navigate the complexities of loss and family obligation. Her younger brothers need her. So does her homeless great Aunt Sis, whose misfortune was caused by a family accident. She must grapple with these responsibilities as well as her parents’ unconventional relationship while being drawn to Packer Sims, a captivating horse rancher and Seminole Indian. Told against the rich tapestry of 1949 in the southern U.S., Floretta’s story is one of identity, self-discovery, and acceptance. Join her journey as Floretta forges a path that is forever beautiful and uniquely her own.
June 17, 2024
Everything that I have read by Ms. Harrison has been so good. This book is no different. I started this book earlier this week and got distracted but when I settled down I finished at 2:30 am. Her books remind me of my childhood memories and time spent with my grandmomma who always had words of wisdom and love to share with her grandkids. I don’t know her Love story with my granddaddy but I would wish it was like the one Floretta shared with Packer. Aunt Sis was a hoot and anytime I can laugh and read I’m happy. I’m not good at writing reviews but if you want a beautiful story of Love, redemption and mystery set in 1949 this’s the book for you. Set in the all Black town of Coleman NC settled by escaped Enslaved men who wanted to uplift their people it’s here. I loved it and I was 😱😱😱 but it’s so good. As I said this author has not disappointed yet. I look forward to reading the next books in this series.
#cillasbookmaniacs
#cillasbookmaniacs
June 11, 2024
I can not express enough accolades about this story that is so beautifully written by author Suzette D. Harrison. Wait until you enter Colemanville and discover the family that was sired by the Profit Coleman. The characters are larger-than-life. In this story we meet Floretta “Flo”, the female lead, her family, and learn the history of the town inhabited by African Americans in 1949. This story is so well-written that you will be riveted to the pages from the first chapter to the last. I love Ms Harrison’s historical fiction stories, and FOREVER BEAUTIFUL ranks at the top.
This story invokes feelings of love, determination, strength, overcoming obstacles, and perseverance.
I highly recommend FOREVER BEAUTIFUL for your reading pleasure.
July 2, 2024
True Love
I loved this book because Suzette portrayed real life issues and struggles we all endure., as well as, great sentence structure, thorough details, and well written paragraphs. I also admired the fact that Flo was a beautiful and determined young woman, and she refused to give in or quit living after losing her precious mom. Very sad but true that her family problems were hurtful and complex; yet, could not have been avoided due to the time period.
All of the readers in my family will definitely read this book and wish to find out more about Flo and Parker’s life after marriage.
Great writing from a great author‼️
I loved this book because Suzette portrayed real life issues and struggles we all endure., as well as, great sentence structure, thorough details, and well written paragraphs. I also admired the fact that Flo was a beautiful and determined young woman, and she refused to give in or quit living after losing her precious mom. Very sad but true that her family problems were hurtful and complex; yet, could not have been avoided due to the time period.
All of the readers in my family will definitely read this book and wish to find out more about Flo and Parker’s life after marriage.
Great writing from a great author‼️
June 6, 2024
This author is one of the best when it comes to historical fiction stories. I absolutely loved and enjoyed this book. It was so beautifully written and entertaining. Flo was my favorite character and I loved reading her journey and her growth. She Is the epitome of turning lemons into lemonade. And this is just the beginning, with four more bookscoming, and I can't wait to read each and every one of them.
September 15, 2024
Excellent read
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. This was Floretta’s coming of age story. Flo had to navigate through grieving the loss of her mother, furthering her education and career opportunities. She also discovers secrets in a time when segregation and racial discrimination exist. This book is happiness, sadness and laughter, as well as romance with Flo and Packer’s courtship. I look forward to the next installment.
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. This was Floretta’s coming of age story. Flo had to navigate through grieving the loss of her mother, furthering her education and career opportunities. She also discovers secrets in a time when segregation and racial discrimination exist. This book is happiness, sadness and laughter, as well as romance with Flo and Packer’s courtship. I look forward to the next installment.
January 24, 2025
Amazingly beautiful!
A compellingly beautifully written story of family love and incredible journey of one young woman's search to find closure after the loss of a loved one. This amazing author painted a picture of life in a small town where the people all know one another and pulled together in tragedy as well as in good times. A must read for anyone who enjoys a good tale!
A compellingly beautifully written story of family love and incredible journey of one young woman's search to find closure after the loss of a loved one. This amazing author painted a picture of life in a small town where the people all know one another and pulled together in tragedy as well as in good times. A must read for anyone who enjoys a good tale!
February 14, 2025
Whew!
What a great read but during this time in America it’s pretty raw especially during black history month 😩
I had to keep reminding myself of the time in history although things have changed but trying to return.
The end part was a real shocker and I think this is a great book for book clubs.
What a great read but during this time in America it’s pretty raw especially during black history month 😩
I had to keep reminding myself of the time in history although things have changed but trying to return.
The end part was a real shocker and I think this is a great book for book clubs.
May 23, 2025
Sensational ✍🏾
What a beautiful story that feels more realistic than fiction! I read , "Wandering Beauty" first because I have read most of the other author's writing and I enjoy reading her books. First time reading the author's works and will not be the last, very entertaining!
What a beautiful story that feels more realistic than fiction! I read , "Wandering Beauty" first because I have read most of the other author's writing and I enjoy reading her books. First time reading the author's works and will not be the last, very entertaining!
July 25, 2025
Forever Beautiful
Suzette has done it again. Floretta’s story is captivating. Iva needs a book too. Giving us bits and pieces of her doesn’t do her justice. After finishing the book, I realize she had to be introduced that way. Packer is just a big old added bonus. Mama Liberty still shows up when needed. A great read. I am old school, I need this in hard copy.
Suzette has done it again. Floretta’s story is captivating. Iva needs a book too. Giving us bits and pieces of her doesn’t do her justice. After finishing the book, I realize she had to be introduced that way. Packer is just a big old added bonus. Mama Liberty still shows up when needed. A great read. I am old school, I need this in hard copy.
September 10, 2024
It ended too soon
This book seems to be an introduction to this family. The writing teases the reader just enough then moves on to her next thought without letting the reader know the real person. You have questions and no answers because the book has ended.
This book seems to be an introduction to this family. The writing teases the reader just enough then moves on to her next thought without letting the reader know the real person. You have questions and no answers because the book has ended.
October 12, 2024
Great Family Drama!
This story kept me turning pages while crying and laughing out loud! When you've read most stories of forbidden love. This story had such unexpected and surprising twist! Wow!
This story kept me turning pages while crying and laughing out loud! When you've read most stories of forbidden love. This story had such unexpected and surprising twist! Wow!
March 2, 2025
beautiful story
I liked the historical fiction. The story flowed nicely and is a quick read. It is a wonderful escape to Colemanville. The twist, secret, heartbreak added and unexpected flavor.
I liked the historical fiction. The story flowed nicely and is a quick read. It is a wonderful escape to Colemanville. The twist, secret, heartbreak added and unexpected flavor.
March 29, 2025
Surprised ending
Love the historical context during that time period. The Enlightening of the Relationship of the main character parents. I really hope that the writer does a prequel which tells her parents' story.
Love the historical context during that time period. The Enlightening of the Relationship of the main character parents. I really hope that the writer does a prequel which tells her parents' story.
June 8, 2024
Loved this
I not only got a great story of love , family and friendship but there was plenty of history in it also . Ms Iva smart and loved heart. I almost felt sorry for Everett.
I not only got a great story of love , family and friendship but there was plenty of history in it also . Ms Iva smart and loved heart. I almost felt sorry for Everett.
June 29, 2024
Enjoyable read.
August 31, 2024
Forever Beautiful
This started with the death of Iva Rae which pulled my heart then it went family drama and sisterly love and the sweetness of Flo and Packer falling in love.
This started with the death of Iva Rae which pulled my heart then it went family drama and sisterly love and the sweetness of Flo and Packer falling in love.
January 13, 2025
Great read
Really enjoyed this book! Can’t wait to read the second one. Excited to see what becomes of Flo and Packer’s love.
Really enjoyed this book! Can’t wait to read the second one. Excited to see what becomes of Flo and Packer’s love.
March 19, 2025
I read it in two days!
I couldn’t stop reading this book and I want to know more about all the characters, can’t wait to finish the series!
I couldn’t stop reading this book and I want to know more about all the characters, can’t wait to finish the series!
April 7, 2025
Easy summer read.
Beautiful story and well written. Explored the interactions between the Black and White townspeople with grace and understanding. Thank you.
Beautiful story and well written. Explored the interactions between the Black and White townspeople with grace and understanding. Thank you.
August 3, 2025
Vary good read
The store will have you in the first few pages. When you find out the back story, you will be hooked.
The store will have you in the first few pages. When you find out the back story, you will be hooked.
September 2, 2025
Loving Colemanville series
November 11, 2024
Secrets, Lies, Truth
What's a girl to do? She buries her mother and had to give up her dream. Her life is falling apart. I was in awe as I read this story. Ms. Harrison has you on edge, wondering what's next. I learned as well as enjoyed this story. On to the next book by Ms. Riddick, looking forward to the complete series.
What's a girl to do? She buries her mother and had to give up her dream. Her life is falling apart. I was in awe as I read this story. Ms. Harrison has you on edge, wondering what's next. I learned as well as enjoyed this story. On to the next book by Ms. Riddick, looking forward to the complete series.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews