Canada, 1860-While on a mission for Black, Elbert notices the lovely Anna Baker for the first time. Unable to think of much else, he leaves Canada to pursue the beauty that has captured his thoughts. Anna is unnerved by the man with the lifeless eyes, who is relentless and forward in his approach. She offers nothing of herself to the intimidating stranger, but fate has a different plan. When Anna is assaulted by slave catchers on the streets of Boston, Elbert finds his manhood tested to the limit. He steps in to help, but the consequences prove devastating, and both are sold into bondage. As Anna learns the horrors of slavery, she comes to understand there is more to the foreboding stranger than meets the eye. Elbert and Anna manage to escape-with the help of the legendary Black. But freedom is not enough to satisfy Elbert's bruised ego. He wants the pound of flesh owed, and he will stop at nothing to collect.
The Uncaged Mind is a passionate story of love and healing despite the ugly backdrop of slavery.
“You have seen how a man was made a slave; you shall see how a slave was made a man.”
I knew I would LOVE Elbert in Black’s book and he did not disappoint! I can only assume that the blueprint for BDE was established in the 1860’s because baby Elbert could teach a class and every 🥷 should be in attendance 😏
After going on a mission for Black, Elbert stumbled upon Anna and she instantly imprinted on that man! She was all that he could think about and it was at that moment that he knew he was coming back for what was his. When he crossed paths with Anna again, he didn’t like how she was being handled AT ALL! No one, not even Anna, knew that she had been claimed and every man that THOUGHT he had the right to touch Anna fkd around and found out. Elbert wasn’t having it and he was rounding em up for Anna left and right!
It didn’t take long for these two to become a united front and I loved the evolution of their relationship. Anna was exactly what Elbert needed because she challenged him in a way no one else dared and it humbled him in such a way that had him soft behind her. As the continued with various missions they were met with challenges that had me on the edge of my seat! 😩
⛓️💥It was “the baby” for me 🥹 ⛓️It was “the baby” and his “mama” for me ☺️💙🥹 ⛓️💥It was Myrtle for me because she was a real one ⛓️It was the brotherhood for me! If “we ride out at dawn” was a group, it would be these men! ⛓️💥it was Elbert and Anna’s letters to each other for me 💌📝 ⛓️It was the last hour of the book for me! Ugh everything!! 🥰
These men are our ancestors wildest dreams and this is what I hoped the vibes were back in the 1860’s when they were leading us to freedom! I am absolutely enjoying this series and I can’t wait to see what James has in store for me!
What an amazing story....Ordinarily, I'm not interested in historical fiction; however, this story was so engaging and the to missions to save and free slaves was extremely captivating for me. The character development was amazing The author did a wonderful job allowing us to experience the raw emotions of both the male and female characters in the story. Elbert was this big strong imposing alpha male, yet we were able to witness his vulnerability....and his love for his wife was beautiful. I didn't want this story to end. I'm so excited to read the next installment about James. OUTSTANDING Narration from Jakobi Diem.
This is the 2nd book in the Black Series and the author did an outstanding job of allowing us to experience Canada in the 1800’s. Elbert was not the dude to play with in the first place. Early on he is smitten with a young lady and is sold back into slavery. Chile one of the men said “we should kill him. He’s not a regular Ni***r.” They should of listen to bruh. Cause Elbert is at the point of suicide when he is found by Black and that’s when al the hell breaks loose. You’ve got to read this book. I am anxiously moving on to book 3 in the sire and I must say Joan Vassar has made me a fan of her historical.
I didn’t think I could like a character as much as I loved Black but main character from Elbert: The Uncaged Mind (The Black Series Book 2) did just that. I fell for Elbert in chapter 1 and his storyline captivated my attention throughout. Joan Vassar was so descriptive in her writing that she had me envisioning Elbert as this virile yet vulnerable man that had a confidence to put his mack down and if you got out of line he didn’t hesitate to put the smack down. I highly recommend this series as you won’t be disappointed.
Elbert is THAT MAN!! I understood him so much and felt his pain. I’m glad he found his healing and peace. He needed Anna’s sweetness and softness. Anna needed his safety and protection, and without even knowing him long, she knew he was IT. The author really captures the emotions and ramifications of slavery in the male and female psyche. We are catapulted in a time machine with Joan Vassar’s writing. Can’t wait for next book!
Fav Quotes:
"What made you think me prey? What the fuck made you look at me and think you could own me... sell me? What the hell made you think a woman in my company was fair game?"
Men who have something to die for are men worth taking a stand with?
"Shame makes a man hide, and if'n a man is hidin' from peoples... just like peoples cain't see the real him, he cain't see peoples for what they is. Ya blind 'cause ya usin' all yo power hidin' rather than seein. I ain't raised no weak men folk, I's sho of that."
As a colored man, his freedom and manhood were all encompassing: he would not be reduced. His manhood was all he had to offer his woman, and he would not allow it to be fucked with. If these four men lived, there could be no life for him. There would have been no facing himself or her, it was just that simple.
Elbert sees Ana and is smitten immediately. Following her one day, he attempts to save her from some slave traders, but they both wind up sold and enslaved. Black and team come to the rescue. Elbert takes Ana and her mother back to the fort. He, Black and the team go back to avenge the traders and all involved.
The characters are so flushed out and the descriptions of everything is so vivid. We really got to delve into Elbert tortured mind, a black man and former slave with no power over himself and everyone he loved and to not be able to protect them from this world. It was bloody. It was violent, but they all deserved it. His love for Ana was so fierce and to see him transform into a papa bear was a joy to read.
I loved this book, the second book in the Black Series. We first got a glimpse of Elbert in "Black." I liked him from the start. The second book let's you into Elbert's psyche. He was a man who internalized things that we may have found minute. He was a man of few words and many actions. We learned that he was very territorial and protective when it came to those he loved. I call him a thugged out abolitionist. Men with so much to lose risked their lives constantly so that others could have a taste of freedom. Whenever they went on a mission my heart was jumping out of my chest. I was concerned for their safety. They are friends that I've grown to care about. When Elbert was enslaved, they contemplated killing him. I'm sure they are kicking themselves for not following their first mind. This book drew me in immediately. I couldn't put it down. It was a love story and also had adventure and a lil bit of murder. Bravo to the author, Joan Vassar. I can't wait to find out what unfolds in Book 3 "Emancipating James."
So, book two did not disappoint. Historical fiction with a modern twist, makes for a cinematic, exciting read! Black’s story moved me and I rooted for Elbert’s peace of mind. His strength and determination was felt throughout the over 300 pages and I smiled for the undying love he had for Anna. If you haven’t read Joan Vassar, I behoove you to do so. You will, not be disappointed. P
There are times when I think I don’t want to read about the burdens my ancestors has had slaves. It’s so easy to turn my head and lose interest in my history but the web of stories embedded in this tale was not of sorrow and pain. It was an intricate plot of love and reconciliation among slaves and the fears they faced when thinking of freedom. I look forward to reading the next installment of this featured author.
Let me start off by saying that Elbert: The Uncaged Mind was so good, I read it TWICE. Joan Vassar didn't NOT disappoint, she brought the same intensity in this book as she did in the first book of this series. She definitely knows how to captivate an audience. I strongly recommend this book if you're looking for a great read.
This Black Series is everything. 💜Joan Vassar is an amazingly gifted story teller. 🙌🏽 The historical context, the details, character descriptions and characteristics and the storyline captures your imagination, heart, and soul. 👏🏽
Elbert big, bold, and lethal...wrestling with guilt and brokenness but finds his way to his heart 💜 A woman who shows him that he is worthy of love. Anna and Elbert did not disappoint with their harrowing escape from danger and death...(spoiler) neither would have survived being captured.
Black and his men continue their crusade to freedom and prosperity and offering it to anyone willing to board the Underground Railroad 🛤
Jakobi Diem’s stellar performance is the icing on the cake for this delicious recipe of life on the Frontier.
My rating: 🔥⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥 Is not fair 5 stars is not enough for this series!!!
This is the second installment to the Black Series. The storyline kept me engaged from the very beginning until the end. I love how the author has written a historical fiction book which takes place during slavery and the beginning of the Civil War era. Incorporating the fictional characters with some real life famous people such as Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglas. At times I felt like I was right there, as I could feel the emotions and places the characters were at. The romance and love that each man and woman felt for each other was so touching. I recommend this book and/or the series to read. You will not be disappointed. Cassandra H.
Powerful!!! I loved every page!! Morgan....first woman who is just as awesome as the men!!! Love to see strong black men whom are concerned about wives, children and family period!!! They aim to create strong men and women at Fort Independence!! Also loved when MOSES made another appearance!!
Great read. This was a story filled with examples of love for family, unselfish love for others, romance and offered a realistic view of burdens carried by black men. They sacrificed their lives for the sake of freedom for ALL. I truly enjoyed it.
To begin. This is definitely urban romance set in slavery time. Right before the Civil War. But this is not your average slave era book. It talks of prosperity and black love and black romance. Somethings seem harsh but they are definitely necessary for the time period. I love this story and the underlining message. Their story was of pure love, he meant it when he said he was her man. He showed her the beast that she had control of.
I was set to be tear up while reading this one. It was moments my heart broke, but instead of a lot of tears, I found myself laughing and cheering.
Elbert’s heart had been so closed off from loving anyone except those he considered his immediate family. I expected him to fight and reject love/intimacy. It was just the opposite, before he was able to take control of his feelings, he was forced into a situation that would threaten his life as a free man.
In spite of the challenges he and Anna were faced with, you witness a man while his circumstances made him feel less than a man and forced him to prove to the woman he loved that he was capable of loving and protecting her. He basically becomes a champion for everyone, forcing us to look into the mirror and see that women and men of all walks of life, while different in many ways, BLEED RED.
When the Fort Independence posse was summoned for a mission, Elbert took the opportunity to avenge the wrong done to him and Anna. Proving to her that she could feel safe and by any means necessary he would protect his family. Throughout the story whenever Elbert came face to face with those that dare take his freedom, he made a point of referencing that he was their equal (as a man). On sight there was no human differences.
Fort Independence continues to grow and the character engagements are very interesting. The journey’s intensity is high at times, keeping you on the edge, but we all can find a lot of take-a-ways from the residents of the Fort!
Finished this read with Jamaican rum and Romeo & Juliet cigar.
Elbert was a baaadddd mf! He is definitely my historical fiction bae. Like “Black”, “Elbert the Uncaged Mind”, was a piece of black excellence. Joan Vassar’s writing style is phenomenal. Her use of imagery and attention to details, allows you to live through the storyline along with the characters. Elbert had heck of a start. It started off with him trying to get to know a young lady named Anna in a town in Boston. While taking a walk with her, suddenly a group of men attacked and attempted to take Anna, while Elbert tried his hardest to fight the men off. He and Anna were both taken and held in captivity, until Black and his men found and rescued them. After his rescue Elbert was so mentally broken. He thought himself as a free man all this time until his freedom was taken from him like it was nothing. He was angry, revengeful, and embarrassed. Anna immediately took comfort and strength in being around Elbert. She feared him but yet felt safe. Elbert had a internal battle with himself about his strength and capabilities to protect Anna when he felt like he failed her once. This story was an adventure! Elbert and Anna’s relationship was 🔥🔥🔥. Elbert in my opinion represented the more aggressive side of the African American male. He had a chip on his shoulder, with so much to prove to himself and those around him. Again, listen to the Audible! Jakobi Diem did his thang once again! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I highly highly highly recommend you check this one and hits predecessor “Black”!!!
Joan Vassar has done it again! With a true knack for cinematic storytelling..."Elbert: The Uncaged Mind" takes us back to an intense FIGHT FOR FREEDOM! A time where LOYALTY, UNITY, LOVE, TRUST, RESPECT and PROTECTING WOMEN & CHILDREN were of the utmost importance. A time where our people appreciated one another and valued that there is STRENGTH and POWER in TOGETHERNESS. A time where UNITY WAS EVERYTHING & anything else was secondary.
And the way this author thoughtfully weaves true love and submission throughout the story brings to life some of the most beautiful and intense love scenes. Never thought I'd be a fan of historical fiction but HERE I AM...SCREAMING BRAVO! GET IT GIRL! Joan Vassar DID THAT! And the teaser of "The Emancipation of James" has me super anxious to read part 3! I highly suggest you 1-Click NOW & see what all the hype is about!
When I started book 1 in this series it felt like I was watching a movie. A movie that made me proud. This book was no different. One thing you will come to know if you don't already is: ELBERT IS NOT TO BE PLAYED WITH. I really enjoy the authors ability to write a story that I can see so vividly as I read. There is so much strenght that outweighs the hurt. There are so many strong black protectors and providers and women who stand strong with them. I was so glad Elbert found Anna although he was very forceful and pushy in the beginning he learned to love Anna and give of himself and his emotions like never before. Everybody needs somebody and I'm glad their love flourished.
I love a good love story, and Elbert and Anna's is a good one, but the bravery, strength and brotherhood exemplified by Black and his men is wonderful to read about. The way that they work together, both to free their people and maintain and grow Fort Independence is amazing. These men are everything! Grown men who fight hard and love harder. And the way that they accepted, embraced and listened to Morgan? Wow! They could teach men today a thing or five, lol.
Well done, Ms. Vassar! Eagerly looking forward to James's story!
I am loving this series by Ms. Vassar. Elbert and Anna ' s romance is beautiful. I love this authors writing style and don't mind the different POV ' s. Her writing flows so seamlessly. There's a lot of action in this book and all of it is interesting. I'm ready for James" story, but I'm scared he won't end up with Fannie. I guess I'll have be brave. Again there's no epilogue, but it doesn't bother me this time since I know I'll read more about the mc's in the next book. Great work.
In book 2 we experience the psychology of slavery, yet the characters live free in upper Canada. The hero, Elbert experiences an episode that defines him. It causes him to examine the illusions of a black man being truly free. Sunday his love interest also experiences the physical and immortality of slavery. In dealing with that they find freedom in loving each other. Again, I am mesmerized by Miss Vassar’s storytelling and her poignant view of freedom fought for inside slavey. I loved this book..On to book 3
After reading Black I had to read this book. This story although fiction was so true as to what our ancestors had to endure in slavery. My only concern was I had a problem was trying to remember all the characters , but overall I thought it was a great book. Joan keep doing what you do. I would recommend this book to everyone I know. I can't wait for James story.
Well the second book did not disappoint! Black is still Black and well Elbert in this book you get to understand him a little better. I don't want to ruin this review with spoilers but part two is definitely a must read. If you loved part one you're gonna love this one as well.