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The Mutiny Brides: A story of the Gulf Coasts long-forgotten founding mothers
Their Journey was perilous. Their resolve is unparalleled.
From France to the frontier of New Orleans …
Book re-edited 9-12-2025
In 1719, La Mutine sailed from France in the cold of January to what would later be known as New Orleans.
The women on board were labeled as prostitutes, thieves, and beggars. Unjustly rounded up by the French police, amidst quick trials, they were banished to the “islands.” Unlike the women of the Mayflower, these women came against their will, and their story, erroneously misfiled in the French archives, stayed buried for over 200 years.
For 12 weeks, they traveled in chains aboard La Mutine, and when they set foot on the land that was to become their new home, they were met with a wild, untamed wilderness. They endured weeks of abandonment on a desert island, and later famine, hurricanes, disease, and ever-changing governmental rule.
These women that France cavalierly disposed of, not only survived, but became successful business women, wealthy landowners, and matriarchs of large, prosperous families.
This is the story of the “Gulf Coast’s” long-forgotten founding mothers.
From France to the frontier of New Orleans …
Book re-edited 9-12-2025
In 1719, La Mutine sailed from France in the cold of January to what would later be known as New Orleans.
The women on board were labeled as prostitutes, thieves, and beggars. Unjustly rounded up by the French police, amidst quick trials, they were banished to the “islands.” Unlike the women of the Mayflower, these women came against their will, and their story, erroneously misfiled in the French archives, stayed buried for over 200 years.
For 12 weeks, they traveled in chains aboard La Mutine, and when they set foot on the land that was to become their new home, they were met with a wild, untamed wilderness. They endured weeks of abandonment on a desert island, and later famine, hurricanes, disease, and ever-changing governmental rule.
These women that France cavalierly disposed of, not only survived, but became successful business women, wealthy landowners, and matriarchs of large, prosperous families.
This is the story of the “Gulf Coast’s” long-forgotten founding mothers.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2024
19 people are currently reading
2102 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
January 28, 2025
The Mutiny Brides by Barbara Sontheimer, in France, all a man had to do who wished to get rid of any of their females. Was throw them in prison. This is how we come to meet some of the women. As they're chained together, put in the hull of a slaveship and sent to a New experimental World labeled as prostitutes. filthy, and on the verge of starvation more than once who knew most of these women would not only reach this experimental colony, but help its advancement and become women to be respected in their own right. I love this book as I do every book by this author I read, but I do want to say when Helen bought the Tavern while Mickey was out fishing and came back to find out she spent the money I really wanted to throw my Kindle at the wall and it made me lose respect for her, but having said that this is still a great awesome read I loved all the women I did think with Suzanne did to her good friend with Shiesty, but I guess in the end everything turned out the way it was supposed to. What an absolutely interesting book about the early days of Louisiana Biloxi and Moble. growing up in Louisiana I have always been interested in how times were after the Louisiana purchase and this book goes a long ways and explaining some of the beginning.
April 24, 2025
This was an interesting and eye-opening read for me! I haven't read too many books exactly like this one, and I really enjoyed watching the story unfold. The women were so resilient, and the author's writing did a fantastic job of showing you, not just telling you. From being thrown on the ship practically against their will and forced to a new land, they learn to survive every step of the way. And how much they had to overcome in the journey.
April 28, 2025
Not only is the outside cover gorgeous, but the inside of this historical fiction read is riveting.
It’s set in the 1720s in what we now know as New Orleans. It follows four women who were jailed and forced to leave France. We read about their ocean journey, their hardships, and their ultimate rise to become influential in NOLA.
The book does have some basis in history as the boat, La Mutine, did sail from France with many wrongly convicted women.
It’s wonderful that Barbara wrote fictional women from this very real journey who ended up shining bright in the new colony.
It’s set in the 1720s in what we now know as New Orleans. It follows four women who were jailed and forced to leave France. We read about their ocean journey, their hardships, and their ultimate rise to become influential in NOLA.
The book does have some basis in history as the boat, La Mutine, did sail from France with many wrongly convicted women.
It’s wonderful that Barbara wrote fictional women from this very real journey who ended up shining bright in the new colony.
May 22, 2025
Yes, I totally judged this book by its cover, and have no regrets. Let’s get this out of the way: I’m a total book cover junkie. A great cover will make me break every “no new books” promise I’ve ever made. And The Mutiny Brides? Easily one of my all-time faves in the cover department. It’s bold, beautiful, and a little mysterious—just like the story inside.
Now, what sealed the deal wasn’t just the art. It was discovering that this is historical fiction, which is my catnip. Set in 1719, this book dives into the real-life stories of women exiled from France and sent to New Orleans. And not just any women—these ladies were fierce. The book explores what it meant to fight for freedom, build a life from scratch, and push against the limits of a world that seriously underestimated them.
The story grabs you from the start and doesn’t let go. It’s gritty, raw, and totally un-sugarcoated in the best way. If you love strong women, rich history, and stories that stay with you long after the final page, this one’s a must. And yes, it looks gorgeous on a shelf—because we all know that matters.
Now, what sealed the deal wasn’t just the art. It was discovering that this is historical fiction, which is my catnip. Set in 1719, this book dives into the real-life stories of women exiled from France and sent to New Orleans. And not just any women—these ladies were fierce. The book explores what it meant to fight for freedom, build a life from scratch, and push against the limits of a world that seriously underestimated them.
The story grabs you from the start and doesn’t let go. It’s gritty, raw, and totally un-sugarcoated in the best way. If you love strong women, rich history, and stories that stay with you long after the final page, this one’s a must. And yes, it looks gorgeous on a shelf—because we all know that matters.
April 16, 2025
Barbara Sontheimer, the Author of “The Mutiny Brides” has written an intriguing, edgy, and captivating novel. The Genres for this well-written and adventurous novel are : Historical Romance, Historical French Fiction, American Historical Romance, U.S. Historical Fiction, and Women’s Fiction. The author vividly describes the rough, wild, perilous adventure and scenery, and the dramatic and colorful characters. The timeline for this story is set in 1719 when “La Mutiny” sailed from France” to what would be New Orleans. The women were taken against their will and chained together during the dangerous voyage. Many of these women were poor and innocent, but in a trial were called prostitutes, and thieves. At sea, there were storms, and disease and many women died. The politicians from France were only concerned what the lands could offer.
The women that survived were brought to the wilderness in New Orleans where they had to fend for themselves. There were little or no provisions, and the women had to starve or fend for themselves. There was no shelter, and little clothing and the women were at the mercy of nature’s dangerous elements. Some of the women learned to catch crabs, and became resourceful. The women were expected to marry. Some of the men had been sailors on the ship, and others arrived from other ships. Most of the women did marry, and the couples worked the land as best they could.
My favorite parts of this story are how resourceful the women could be, and how they helped one another. There were many things that I learned from this book, that I had not been aware of. I would highly recommend this thought-provoking novel.
The women that survived were brought to the wilderness in New Orleans where they had to fend for themselves. There were little or no provisions, and the women had to starve or fend for themselves. There was no shelter, and little clothing and the women were at the mercy of nature’s dangerous elements. Some of the women learned to catch crabs, and became resourceful. The women were expected to marry. Some of the men had been sailors on the ship, and others arrived from other ships. Most of the women did marry, and the couples worked the land as best they could.
My favorite parts of this story are how resourceful the women could be, and how they helped one another. There were many things that I learned from this book, that I had not been aware of. I would highly recommend this thought-provoking novel.
April 4, 2025
The Mutiny Brides by Barbara Sontheimer is an incredible work of historical fiction.
The story is about an aspect of history I didn't know about and that is one of the reasons I love historical fiction so much.
Set in 1719, An incredible journey from France to what would be New Orleans.
The La Mutine had women on the ship who were considered thieves and prostitutes.
The police created fake trials, and the women were sent away.
Bound by chains for 12 weeks, the women only had themselves to rely on.
Arriving on land they faced the wilds of devastating weather and famine.
This incredible story speaks to their ability to overcome the most deplorable conditions to become the Gulf Coast's women who would become wealthy and powerful women in powerful families.
The writing is absolutely devastatingly beautiful and captivating.
I read some parts of this book twice because I was in such awe of these strong, resilient women.
The story is about an aspect of history I didn't know about and that is one of the reasons I love historical fiction so much.
Set in 1719, An incredible journey from France to what would be New Orleans.
The La Mutine had women on the ship who were considered thieves and prostitutes.
The police created fake trials, and the women were sent away.
Bound by chains for 12 weeks, the women only had themselves to rely on.
Arriving on land they faced the wilds of devastating weather and famine.
This incredible story speaks to their ability to overcome the most deplorable conditions to become the Gulf Coast's women who would become wealthy and powerful women in powerful families.
The writing is absolutely devastatingly beautiful and captivating.
I read some parts of this book twice because I was in such awe of these strong, resilient women.
December 4, 2024
A True Story Expertly retold.
In the eighteenth century a ship named La Mutine departed from France, heading to what would later be known as New Orleans. The women onboard were unfairly accused and branded as prostitutes, thieves, and beggars.
After enduring twelve weeks onboard in chains, they arrived on the land that would become their new home. They faced a wild, untamed wilderness, enduring years of isolation, scarcity, hurricanes, illnesses, and shifting governmental control. Despite France's disregard, these women not only survived but thrived, becoming successful- affluent landowners, and the matriarchs of prosperous families.
This is a story of resilience and of the influence of these extraordinary women on the founding of the Gulf Coast of America. “Incroyable!”
In the eighteenth century a ship named La Mutine departed from France, heading to what would later be known as New Orleans. The women onboard were unfairly accused and branded as prostitutes, thieves, and beggars.
After enduring twelve weeks onboard in chains, they arrived on the land that would become their new home. They faced a wild, untamed wilderness, enduring years of isolation, scarcity, hurricanes, illnesses, and shifting governmental control. Despite France's disregard, these women not only survived but thrived, becoming successful- affluent landowners, and the matriarchs of prosperous families.
This is a story of resilience and of the influence of these extraordinary women on the founding of the Gulf Coast of America. “Incroyable!”
April 24, 2025
This was such an intriguing novel, a part of history I had no idea about.
Set in 1719, A journey from France to what is now New Orleans. The police created fake trials for women who were considered thieves or prostitutes so they could send them away. Shackled with chains for 12 weeks, the women only had themselves and when they arrived by the boat La Mutine, here they faced famine and horrible weather. Despite France's disregard, of these women they were determined to survive and prove everyone wrong. We read as they become successful- affluent landowners, and the matriarchs of prosperous families along the gulf coast! This is the story of the “Gulf Coast’s” long forgotten founding mothers. I truly was amazed by these woman!
Set in 1719, A journey from France to what is now New Orleans. The police created fake trials for women who were considered thieves or prostitutes so they could send them away. Shackled with chains for 12 weeks, the women only had themselves and when they arrived by the boat La Mutine, here they faced famine and horrible weather. Despite France's disregard, of these women they were determined to survive and prove everyone wrong. We read as they become successful- affluent landowners, and the matriarchs of prosperous families along the gulf coast! This is the story of the “Gulf Coast’s” long forgotten founding mothers. I truly was amazed by these woman!
May 3, 2025
New Orleans was one of my favorite places to visit for many years so I was fascinated to learn more about its history. I appreciated the author’s introduction to explain that although the characters were fictional, the struggles the women who traveled from France on La Mutine were well documented. The conditions under which the women made the voyage from France to the US were beyond brutal. It’s a miracle that anyone survived the journey and the early days (even early years) in the new territory. I quickly became invested in the stories of the women. Each was compelling and I developed tremendous respect for their sheer will to survive. I could not turn the pages fast enough to see how their stories ended.
May 24, 2025
This is a very interesting account of the brave mothers of New Orleans. As a descendant of some of the city's earliest settlers, I was riveted to read the stories (albeit fictitious) of the French women who were brought overseas to find a new fate in the wilderness. And yet, despite all the unthinkable hardships, they thrived. It gives me great pride to read about it! And this book did a great job in painting the picture of their lives and filling in the gaps of what life was like in that time.
I can tell the author must have done extensive research. It was very well-written and easily kept my attention. I would highly recommend this to anyone who loves historical fiction and is interested in the history of New Orleans.
I can tell the author must have done extensive research. It was very well-written and easily kept my attention. I would highly recommend this to anyone who loves historical fiction and is interested in the history of New Orleans.
May 25, 2025
This is a well-researched and well-written novel of historical fiction that is based on the real experiences of unwanted women sent over from France bound together by chains. The four women in the book show exceptional bravery and courage as they fight to create new lives and the city of New Orleans. I found the history fascinating and these incredible women deserve their place in history and to have their stories told. This is one of my favorite reads so far this year.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 23, 2025
A famtastic book! In 1719 a ship left France with 96 female prisoners. They were headed to a very primitive and harsh land of Louisiana. Left with no food or clothing and very sick after a rough 5 week voyage. A lot of women died on the way and some didnt survive the hunger and disease after landing. This book follows a few of the women that survived and eventually flourished in New Orleans. They knew they had to marry as soon as possible. Based on the true story of these brave women I highly recommend it. The Mutiny Brides by Barbara Sontheimer. 5 stars
April 27, 2025
This historical fiction gem takes place in 1719. This is the story of the women who were considered prostitutes, thieves, and beggars, that sailed from France against their will to what is now New Orleans. These women faced unknown land, dangerous weather, and hunger. Yet, they managed to overcome their obstacles and become prosperous. This was a remarkable story about the strength and determination of women.
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
May 8, 2025
I traveled to New Orleans a few years back and was fascinated by its history and rich culture—but I had no idea about this part of its story. I’m horrified and completely captivated.
This book brings to light the forgotten women who were unjustly banished from France in 1719. These women didn’t just survive—they thrived.
As a lover of historical fiction, I was completely drawn in. This is the kind of story that stays with you.
This book brings to light the forgotten women who were unjustly banished from France in 1719. These women didn’t just survive—they thrived.
As a lover of historical fiction, I was completely drawn in. This is the kind of story that stays with you.
May 13, 2025
I love reading about the start of a colony/town and found all aspects really interesting. I liked how the story followed the four main women and how each had a different experience both on the ship and living in the new settlement. They all had different personalities and I loved how they demanded respect on the island regardless of why they came there. Josianne was smart and good at working through problems. Helene was determined to make it on her own and Marlee was sweet and caring. I did find more of an emotional connection to Josianne and while Helene’s choices frustrated me at times it was understandable. There were so many hardships but also some sweeter moments too. I thought it was well rounded and I enjoyed the ending.
Thank you @sontheimerwrites @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.
Thank you @sontheimerwrites @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.
May 28, 2025
Set in the early 1700s, this powerful story follows women forced from France and shipped—chained together—across the ocean to what would become New Orleans.
Gritty, raw, and deeply compelling, it’s a tale of survival, resilience, and defying the odds in a world that tried to write them off. From wrongful imprisonment to rising as fierce, influential women, their journey is unforgettable.
📚✨If you love historical fiction that doesn’t hold back, this one delivers.
Gritty, raw, and deeply compelling, it’s a tale of survival, resilience, and defying the odds in a world that tried to write them off. From wrongful imprisonment to rising as fierce, influential women, their journey is unforgettable.
📚✨If you love historical fiction that doesn’t hold back, this one delivers.
January 15, 2026
A great read
I really appreciated the way the author portrayed the humanity of the characters with all their strengths and weaknesses....as real people. Tastefully done. As the momentum built up, I found it harder and harder to put the book down...staying up late, and finishing it in bed.
I really appreciated the way the author portrayed the humanity of the characters with all their strengths and weaknesses....as real people. Tastefully done. As the momentum built up, I found it harder and harder to put the book down...staying up late, and finishing it in bed.
December 15, 2024
This book takes you into lives and minds of the courageous women who became the founders of Louisana. You get to travel with them from France in a slave ship where all your senses are engaged. Including smell! This book is a must read for historical fiction.
January 19, 2025
Excellent! I can't wait for the sequel!
July 4, 2025
Strong women
I always admire strong female characters. Survival against odds both natural and man made. Perhaps not accurate but an interesting read.
I always admire strong female characters. Survival against odds both natural and man made. Perhaps not accurate but an interesting read.
November 10, 2025
I think that the book was good, but I feel that it was not proofread at all. Lots of grammatical errors, etc. that I found distracting.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews