What do you think?
Rate this book
Twice a Slave
Randy Willis tells the raw-boned epic, based on his own ancestors, that gives American history a new face and a fresh voice.
When the son of a Cherokee slave determines to find his purpose and discover his identity, he becomes a slave a second time. This fictional account of the life of Joseph Willis is rooted in early American history and filled with drama: a forbidden romance, faith molded by tragedies, and the courage to forgive. A half-English/half-Cherokee slave changes the course of Louisiana history when a fresh wind blows across his heart.
When the son of a Cherokee slave determines to find his purpose and discover his identity, he becomes a slave a second time. This fictional account of the life of Joseph Willis is rooted in early American history and filled with drama: a forbidden romance, faith molded by tragedies, and the courage to forgive. A half-English/half-Cherokee slave changes the course of Louisiana history when a fresh wind blows across his heart.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
283 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2014
52 people are currently reading
138 people want to read
About the author
Randy Willis
23 books9 followersRandy Willis is an American novelist, biographer, rancher, and music publisher.
Randy Willis is the author of Destiny, Twice a Slave, Three Winds Blowing, Louisiana Wind, Beckoning Candle, The Apostle to the Opelousas, The Story of Joseph Willis, and many magazine and newspaper articles.
Randy Willis...novels about adventure, family, faith, and the character of men and women that touched generations.
Randy Willis is as much at home in the saddle as he is in front of the computer where he composes his western family sagas. Drawing on his family heritage of explorers, settlers, soldiers, cowboys, and pastors, Randy carries on the tradition of loving the outdoors and sharing it in the adventures he creates for readers of his novels.
Website: http://threewindsblowing.com
Randy Willis is the author of Destiny, Twice a Slave, Three Winds Blowing, Louisiana Wind, Beckoning Candle, The Apostle to the Opelousas, The Story of Joseph Willis, and many magazine and newspaper articles.
Randy Willis...novels about adventure, family, faith, and the character of men and women that touched generations.
Randy Willis is as much at home in the saddle as he is in front of the computer where he composes his western family sagas. Drawing on his family heritage of explorers, settlers, soldiers, cowboys, and pastors, Randy carries on the tradition of loving the outdoors and sharing it in the adventures he creates for readers of his novels.
Website: http://threewindsblowing.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
March 11, 2020
I wanted to love this book. It’s based off true life events. I think that readers should know it’s like reading a repetitive novelization of David Brainerd’s journals. It’s a wonderful thing for a person of strong faith to live it. It felt much more like way to repeatedly express “the way of salvation” than truly showing the ongoing injustices of a firstborn Native son to White father.
If you are looking for a Christian book with a strong redemption message then you will enjoy this.
If you are looking for a Christian book with a strong redemption message then you will enjoy this.
July 20, 2014
This is the kind of book which could have been excellent, I honestly think it could have even been a classic of Christian literature. It has the right material, the story of a man who due to racial prejudice is trying to find his identity (free man or slave? Cherokee or English?) and his whole life becomes a sort of quest to find out who he is as he serves God as a preacher. Whenever the book focuses on Joseph's struggle, the book works. And while it is very explicitly Christian, it usually sidesteps the trap many Christian books fall into, becoming pro-Jesus propaganda with corny declarations of faith.
However, this is still the first fiction book Tippit has written, and while a more experienced author could have made a truly great novel, his inexperience overrides his talent. The first 80 pages could have really good characters, but the author hasn't put in enough material or detail to develop them to that point. Joseph's struggle is set up in these first 80 pages, but again there's not enough material or detail to really make you connect with him.
Bottom line, read this book if you're willing to read it all the way through, otherwise don't bother.
However, this is still the first fiction book Tippit has written, and while a more experienced author could have made a truly great novel, his inexperience overrides his talent. The first 80 pages could have really good characters, but the author hasn't put in enough material or detail to develop them to that point. Joseph's struggle is set up in these first 80 pages, but again there's not enough material or detail to really make you connect with him.
Bottom line, read this book if you're willing to read it all the way through, otherwise don't bother.
January 30, 2015
This was an interesting story. It could be hard to read at times because of the subject matter. It was hard to see how he got treated by his own family because his mother was an Indian slave. I don't know if I could have been as brave as he seemed to be most of his life. It was a very good story. I received a free copy of this book from bookfun.org for a fair and honest opinion.
July 10, 2014
This is just a terrific story. Very inspiring.
September 29, 2014
Very interesting book about slavery of Indian man who wanted to become a preacher in south Louisiana. Play will be held in early November at Louisiana College.
March 2, 2017
Really enjoyed the bio of a godly man and servant of Christ. Excellent history and detail!
January 11, 2016
Master storyteller Randy Willis...books about adventure, family, and faith.
Randy Willis is the author of Three Winds Blowing, Louisiana Wind, The Apostle to the Opelousas, The Story of Joseph Willis, and is co-author of Twice a Slave, and many magazine and newspaper articles.
Twice a Slave has been chosen as a part of the Jerry B. Jenkins Select Line, along with four bestselling authors. Jerry Jenkins is author of more than 180 books with sales of more than 70 million copies, including the best-selling Left Behind series.
Twice a Slave has also been adapted into a dramatic play (vimeo.com/99360694) at Louisiana College, by Dr. D. "Pete" Richardson (Associate Professor of Theater with Louisiana College).
✯ ✯ ✯
He owns Randy Willis Music Publishing (an ASCAP-affiliated music publishing company), and Town Lake Music Publishing, LLC (a BMI-affiliated music publishing company). He is an ASCAP-affiliated songwriter, and is President of Quadra Record Company.
He is the founder of Operation Warm Heart (vimeo.com/41195752), which feeds and clothes the homeless, and is a member of the Board of Directors of Our Mission Possible (ourmp.org), empowering at-risk teens to discover their greatness, in Austin, Texas. He is a member of the Board of Trustees of the Joseph Willis Institute at Louisiana College.
✯ ✯ ✯
Born in Oakdale, Louisiana, he lived near Forest Hill and Longleaf, Louisiana as a boy. He currently resides in the Texas Hill Country.
He graduated from Angleton High School in Angleton, Texas, and Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas, with a BBA. He was a graduate student at Texas State University for six years.
He is single and the father of three sons and has four grandchildren. All of his books are dedicated to them by name.
He is a fourth great-grandson of Joseph Willis, and his foremost historian.
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
The Birth of the Biographies, Novels and the Play...
And, the real-life connections between William Prince Ford, Solomon Northup, James "Jim " Bowie, and Joseph Willis
As a child Randy Willis lived on Barber Creek near Longleaf and Forest Hill, Louisiana. As a teenager, he would work cows with his family there on the open range, owned by lumber companies. Seven generations of his family have lived there, beginning with his 4th Great-Grandfather--Joseph Willis. He would often ride his horse through his family's neighboring property, which was once William Prince Ford's Wallfield Plantation, not realizing the significance of his ancestor's connection to Solomon Northup and William Prince Ford.
✯ ✯ ✯
After writing the biography The Apostle to the Opelousas, Randy Willis got the idea for the novels Twice a Slave, Three Winds Blowing, Louisiana Wind, and the play Twice a Slave from his friend and fellow historian Dr. Sue Eakin. She contacted him after reading an article that mentioned he had obtained the Spring Hill Baptist Church minutes. The minutes had much information on two of its founders: Joseph Willis and William Prince Ford.
Ford had bought the slave Solomon Northup on June 23, 1841, in New Orleans. He immediately brought him to his Wallfield Plantation. Just forty-six days later, Joseph Willis and William Prince Ford founded Spring Hill Baptist Church, on August 8, 1841. Ford's slaves attended the church too, which was the custom in pre-Civil War Louisiana.
The plantation was located on Hurricane Creek, a fourth-mile east of present-day Forest Hill, Louisiana. It was located on the crest of a hill, on the Texas Road that ran along side a ridge. Northup called this area, in his book Twelve Years a Slave, "The Great Piney Woods." Ford was also the headmaster of Spring Creek Academy located near his plantation and Spring Hill Baptist Church. It was there, in 1841, that Joseph Willis would live and entrust his diary to his protégé William Prince Ford, according to early historian W.E. Paxton.
✯ ✯ ✯
Ford was not a Baptist preacher when he purchased Solomon Northup and the slave Eliza, a.k.a. Dradey, in 1841, as many books, articles, blogs, and the movie 12 Years a Slave have portrayed.
The first part of the Spring Hill Baptist Church minutes are written in Ford's own handwriting since he was the church 's first secretary and also the first church clerk. The minutes reveal that on July 7, 1842, Ford was elected deacon. On December 11, 1842, Ford became the church 's treasurer, too. It was during the winter of 1842 that Ford sold a 60% share of Northup to John M. Tibeats. Ford's remaining 40% was later conveyed to Edwin Epps, on April 9, 1843.
It was not until February 10, 1844, that Ford was ordained as a Baptist preacher. A year later, on April 12, 1845, Ford was excommunicated for "communing with the Campbellite Church at Cheneyville." But, Ford's later writings reveal that he remained close friends with his neighbor and mentor Joseph Willis.
Dr. Eakin asked Randy Willis if he would help her with her research on William Prince Ford. He also lectured in her history classes, at Louisiana State University at Alexandria, on the subject.
Dr. Eakin wrote Randy Willis on March 7, 1984, "We had a wonderful experience dramatizing Northup and I think there could be a musical play on Joseph Willis. It seems to me it gets the message across far more quickly than routine written material." She added, "a fictional novel based upon Joseph Willis's life would be more interesting to the general public than a biography and would reach a greater audience."
Dr. Eakin is best known for documenting, annotating, and reviving interest in Solomon Northup's 1853 book Twelve Years a Slave. She, at the age of eighteen, rediscovered a long-forgotten copy of Solomon Northup's book, on the shelves of a bookstore, near the LSU campus, in Baton Rouge. The bookstore owner sold it to her for only 25 cents. In 2013, 12 Years a Slave won the Academy Award for Best Picture.
In his acceptance speech for the honor, director Steve McQueen thanked Dr. Eakin: "I'd like to thank this amazing historian, Sue Eakin, whose life, she gave her life's work to preserving Solomon's book."
✯ ✯ ✯
James "Jim " Bowie was a neighbor of Joseph Willis when they both lived near Bayou Chicot. Jim's brother, Rezin Bowie, was a neighbor to Joseph's eldest son Agerton Willis and eldest grandson, Daniel Hubbard Willis Sr., for four years (1824-1827) in the village of Bayou Boeuf. The name changed to Holmesville in 1834, and is located near present-day Eola. It was at Holmesville, on Bayou Boeuf, that Edwin Epps enslaved (1845-1853) Solomon Northup for the last eight years of his twelve year indenture. It was there that Joseph's eldest son and Randy Willis's 3rd great-grandfather Agerton Willis met and married Sophie Story.
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
About Joseph Willis
Joseph Willis's life is a story of triumph over tragedy and victory over adversity!
✯ He was born into slavery. His mother was Cherokee and his father a wealthy English plantation owner.
✯ His family took him to court to deprive him of his inheritance (which would have made him the wealthiest plantation owner in all of Bladen County, North Carolina in 1776).
✯ He fought as a Patriot in the Revolutionary War under the most colorful of all the American generals, Francis Marion, The Swamp Fox.
✯ His first wife died in childbirth, and his second wife died only six years later, leaving him with five small children.
✯ He crossed the mighty Mississippi River at Natchez at the peril of his own life, riding a mule!
✯ He entered hostile Spanish-controlled Louisiana Territory, when the dreaded Code Noir (Black Code) was in effect. It forbade any Protestant ministers who came into the territory from preaching.
✯ His life was threatened because of the message he brought to Spanish-controlled Louisiana!
✯ His own denomination refused to ordain him because of his race.
✯ Joseph Willis preached the first Gospel sermon by an Evangelical west of the Mississippi River.
✯ After overcoming insurmountable obstacles, he blazed a trail for others for another half-century that changed American history.
✯ His accomplishments are still felt today.
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
In Appreciation
I'm thankful to the many people from the past that have encouraged me to write the books, beginning with my first-cousin Donnie Willis. He planted the first seed in my mind to write about our fourth great-grandfather Joseph Willis. Our sainted grandmother, Lillie Hanks Willis, had a treasure chest of stories about Joseph, and insisted I write them down.
Our Willis family has been blessed with storytellers. My cousin Kimberly Willis Holt is an example of that. Her books (When Zachary Beaver Came to Town, My Louisiana Sky) have inspired me. I have used her grandfather and my Uncle Howard Willis's arsenal of stories all my life.
My cousin, and maternal great-grandson of Joseph Willis, Dr. Greene Wallace Strother gave me all of his vast research. His uncle, Polk Willis, tended to Joseph in his final years, and shared all that he said to Dr. Strother.
My fellow historian and friend, Dr. Sue Eakin asks me to help her with her research on William Prince Ford. I learned much about William Prince Ford and Solomon Northup from her.
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Website: threewindsblowing.com
Randy Willis's Amazon author's page: amazon.com/author/randywillis
Three Winds Blowing trailer: youtu.be/qbQXzF35aWE
Twice a Slave trailer: vimeo.com/93896657
Twice a Slave, the play trailer: vimeo.com/99360694
Goodreads: goodreads.com/randywillis
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/randywillisbooks
Twitter: twitter.com/randywillisnews
Facebook:
facebook.com/louisianawinds
facebook.com/twiceaslavenovel
facebook.com/joseph.willis.twice.a.slave
facebook.com/louisiana.wind.novel
Blog: randywillisbooks.wordpress.com/Willis...
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Contact:
512-565-0161
randywillis@twc.com
threewindsblowing.com
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Coming Soon: Hotel Leesville, a novel, and a series of children's storybooks beginning with Ole Sally Swims the Mighty Mississippi....
January 14, 2020
Wow! What a fascinating story! I'd gotten this a long time ago, and finally got around to reading it. I really like the fact that it's based on real people. I really liked learning about the early history of God's work in Mississippi and Louisiana, and how He used people who were willing to obey Him. If you like history, read this!
May 16, 2017
This was absolutely a God driven book. It was excellently written and a very good summary of facts following the reading of the story.
June 7, 2025
Engaging and engrossing story! I hadn't felt this caught up in a book in a long time.
September 13, 2018
A moving story
I found this to be a moving story of love, forgiveness and faith. Since members of my African-American family married a descendant of Agerton Willis, this well written story has even more significance in a generation still struggling for acceptance because they are mixed. It was a good read.
I found this to be a moving story of love, forgiveness and faith. Since members of my African-American family married a descendant of Agerton Willis, this well written story has even more significance in a generation still struggling for acceptance because they are mixed. It was a good read.
August 26, 2014
Twice a Slave is a compelling read based on the lives of the ancestors of Sammy Tippit and Randy Willis, the authors of this drama. It includes history from the early days of our country and the contributions of Joseph Willis, son of a white man and a Christian Cherokee woman. In the 1700’s it was illegal for them to marry, so their vows were taken before a Reverend in a “Clandestine wedding”. While his parents were alive, Joseph was required to live as a slave on the property as that was how Cherokees – even “mix’t” – were treated. In spite of his father’s will, giving the property to him and emancipating him effective on his 21st birthday, his father’s brother determined to take the property and continued to treat Joseph as a slave so he would not own more than the rest of the family – which they couldn’t face.
In spite of the theft of his property and loss of freedom, Joseph had a rich, full life. He fought in the Revolutionary War for the Patriots, at one point fighting in the same militia as his cousin John, son of the uncle who dishonored his father’s will. When John saw his dedication to fighting for this new country, he worked hard to get his father to honor Joseph’s father’s will.
Joseph became a Christian in a beautiful experience, and planned to one day go to Mississippi to help plant churches with the pastor who mentored him, Richard Curtis. He learned to live with great grief, the struggle of being a soldier and a “slave” on the run, the pain of rejection and betrayal by his father’s family, and ultimately the joy of declaring himself a slave of Christ Jesus.
The characters, based on real people, were very well developed. Joseph, his parents, Pastor Curtis, his wives, Ezekiel – the close friend that he ran away with to be a soldier, Joshua Braveboy, and various family members were written clearly of, three-dimensional folks that I would want to meet and know had I lived then.
Joseph’s story was told with compassion but without pity. The work he did for the kingdom of God shows us exactly what the Lord can do with one man that the world in his day would not have considered of value or talents. Yet his legacy in the Baptist church and for the Cherokee people is unique and extremely inspirational. I would very highly recommend this novel to adults of all ages and young adults, to those who appreciate the history of America, the Baptist church, and the Cherokee people. It would be a blessed gift to those who feel they don’t have anything to offer in service to the Lord. That it is based on a true story of the ancestors of the authors brings the characters to life in a way that bears witness to God’s transforming work that transcends far more than anyone could imagine.
I received a copy of this book through the “For Readers Only” group at The Book Club Network, in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
In spite of the theft of his property and loss of freedom, Joseph had a rich, full life. He fought in the Revolutionary War for the Patriots, at one point fighting in the same militia as his cousin John, son of the uncle who dishonored his father’s will. When John saw his dedication to fighting for this new country, he worked hard to get his father to honor Joseph’s father’s will.
Joseph became a Christian in a beautiful experience, and planned to one day go to Mississippi to help plant churches with the pastor who mentored him, Richard Curtis. He learned to live with great grief, the struggle of being a soldier and a “slave” on the run, the pain of rejection and betrayal by his father’s family, and ultimately the joy of declaring himself a slave of Christ Jesus.
The characters, based on real people, were very well developed. Joseph, his parents, Pastor Curtis, his wives, Ezekiel – the close friend that he ran away with to be a soldier, Joshua Braveboy, and various family members were written clearly of, three-dimensional folks that I would want to meet and know had I lived then.
Joseph’s story was told with compassion but without pity. The work he did for the kingdom of God shows us exactly what the Lord can do with one man that the world in his day would not have considered of value or talents. Yet his legacy in the Baptist church and for the Cherokee people is unique and extremely inspirational. I would very highly recommend this novel to adults of all ages and young adults, to those who appreciate the history of America, the Baptist church, and the Cherokee people. It would be a blessed gift to those who feel they don’t have anything to offer in service to the Lord. That it is based on a true story of the ancestors of the authors brings the characters to life in a way that bears witness to God’s transforming work that transcends far more than anyone could imagine.
I received a copy of this book through the “For Readers Only” group at The Book Club Network, in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
July 29, 2014
About the Book:
Sammy Tippit and Randy Willis tell the raw-boned epic, based on their own ancestors, that gives American history a new face and a fresh voice.
When the son of a Cherokee slave determines to find his purpose and discover his identity, he becomes a slave a second time. This fictional account of the life of Joseph Willis is rooted in early American history and filled with drama: a forbidden romance, faith molded by tragedies, and the courage to forgive. A half-English/half-Cherokee slave changes the course of Louisiana history when a fresh wind blows across his heart.
About the Author:
Sammy Tippit is the author of 13 non-fiction books, which have been translated into more than 20 languages. He has pioneered evangelism in some of the most difficult regions of the world. He's married to Debara "Tex" Tippit, and they have two children and five grandchildren. Tippit's ancestors worked with Joseph Willis to form some of the first Evangelical and Baptist churches in Louisiana.
Randy Willis is the fourth great-grandson of Joseph Willis and his foremost historian. Randy Willis is single and is the father of three sons and four grandchildren. "Twice a Slave" is dedicated to each of them by name.
My Review:
Agerton Willis fell in love with Ahyoka, they got married and together had Joseph. Seems like a simple, happy, God fearing family, right? Well it would except for the fact that Agerton fell in love with an Indian, a slave Indian. Marriage to a slave or even a person of a different race was illegal but the two of them didn't let that stop them. They found a small church and happily joined into their union. They were truly in love and within one year, their precious Joseph was born.
Joseph Willis can do anything that a Cherokee or a white man could possibly do, he is no different than the next guy. Joseph led a great life, he loved his neighbors and he loved God. As Joseph gets older things in his life start getting harder for him, and the teasing that use to be so easily ignored has now become brutal for him. Before long, the Torys and the Patriots factor into the equation and not only does he have to battle the locals, the war begins to rage around him. As a result Joseph develops a hard outer layer from growing so bitter about how he is treated by others, but his faith grows with each ill word.
This book is a riveting read! I loved every single solitary page of it. It was an amazing story involving a real family with God's threads running through each generation, that I found fascinating! If you would like to purchase this great book, you can do so here.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Book Fun.
Sammy Tippit and Randy Willis tell the raw-boned epic, based on their own ancestors, that gives American history a new face and a fresh voice.
When the son of a Cherokee slave determines to find his purpose and discover his identity, he becomes a slave a second time. This fictional account of the life of Joseph Willis is rooted in early American history and filled with drama: a forbidden romance, faith molded by tragedies, and the courage to forgive. A half-English/half-Cherokee slave changes the course of Louisiana history when a fresh wind blows across his heart.
About the Author:
Sammy Tippit is the author of 13 non-fiction books, which have been translated into more than 20 languages. He has pioneered evangelism in some of the most difficult regions of the world. He's married to Debara "Tex" Tippit, and they have two children and five grandchildren. Tippit's ancestors worked with Joseph Willis to form some of the first Evangelical and Baptist churches in Louisiana.
Randy Willis is the fourth great-grandson of Joseph Willis and his foremost historian. Randy Willis is single and is the father of three sons and four grandchildren. "Twice a Slave" is dedicated to each of them by name.
My Review:
Agerton Willis fell in love with Ahyoka, they got married and together had Joseph. Seems like a simple, happy, God fearing family, right? Well it would except for the fact that Agerton fell in love with an Indian, a slave Indian. Marriage to a slave or even a person of a different race was illegal but the two of them didn't let that stop them. They found a small church and happily joined into their union. They were truly in love and within one year, their precious Joseph was born.
Joseph Willis can do anything that a Cherokee or a white man could possibly do, he is no different than the next guy. Joseph led a great life, he loved his neighbors and he loved God. As Joseph gets older things in his life start getting harder for him, and the teasing that use to be so easily ignored has now become brutal for him. Before long, the Torys and the Patriots factor into the equation and not only does he have to battle the locals, the war begins to rage around him. As a result Joseph develops a hard outer layer from growing so bitter about how he is treated by others, but his faith grows with each ill word.
This book is a riveting read! I loved every single solitary page of it. It was an amazing story involving a real family with God's threads running through each generation, that I found fascinating! If you would like to purchase this great book, you can do so here.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Book Fun.
August 17, 2014
Twice a Slave is about the life of Joseph Willis. His mother was Cherokee and his father white. Because his mother was a slave at the time of Joseph’s birth, Joseph too was considered a slave. And he was forced to live the life of a slave after his parent’s deaths. During his entire life he had to deal with discrimination and even hostility from his own family. Twice a slave is written as if Joseph is sharing his autobiography.
It is incredible to see how Joseph held up under some really tough circumstances. He had every right to be angry . No one would have blamed him for becoming bitter when he was forced to live as a slave on property that he should have rightly owned His family rejected him and treated him very poorly. Yet, he exchanged their hatred for love. As a result of his confidence that no matter what happened God had a plan for His life, Joseph found a freedom that many don’t get a chance to experience. And he was not ashamed to share with the rest of the world his newfound spiritual faith.
Twice a slave also uncovered many unknown facts about Native American slavery. It was appalling to learn of the strong mindset that slaves were inferior and because of that mindset the justification to discriminate. I was surprised to learn that it was other Indian tribes who sold Joseph’s wife into slavery rather than the white man.
Joseph lived in a very interesting time in history. I had never thought about the fact that not everyone was in favor of the fight for independence and that there were actually people who supported the British rule. Twice a Slave will hold a great appeal to those who love to read about faith in action. It will also become a favorite to anyone who loves a fresh glimpse at American history. Joseph Willis’s life really is an inspiration.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
It is incredible to see how Joseph held up under some really tough circumstances. He had every right to be angry . No one would have blamed him for becoming bitter when he was forced to live as a slave on property that he should have rightly owned His family rejected him and treated him very poorly. Yet, he exchanged their hatred for love. As a result of his confidence that no matter what happened God had a plan for His life, Joseph found a freedom that many don’t get a chance to experience. And he was not ashamed to share with the rest of the world his newfound spiritual faith.
Twice a slave also uncovered many unknown facts about Native American slavery. It was appalling to learn of the strong mindset that slaves were inferior and because of that mindset the justification to discriminate. I was surprised to learn that it was other Indian tribes who sold Joseph’s wife into slavery rather than the white man.
Joseph lived in a very interesting time in history. I had never thought about the fact that not everyone was in favor of the fight for independence and that there were actually people who supported the British rule. Twice a Slave will hold a great appeal to those who love to read about faith in action. It will also become a favorite to anyone who loves a fresh glimpse at American history. Joseph Willis’s life really is an inspiration.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 10, 2014
Twice a Slave by Sammy Tippet is a story of rising above circumstances and the willingness to follow God. Although rejected by his family, the community he lived in, and the world around him, Joseph Willis fought for his destiny. While the new United States is being birthed and everyone around him is crying out for freedom, those same men are unwilling to see Joseph as anything more than a slave. The irony alone is worth pondering.
Joseph’s life is filled with sorrow and he has many opportunities to submit to the temptation to give up, but his love for Jesus exceeds even his own fears. Determined to live for the Lord and to serve his one true Master, Joseph journeys to places feared and unknown to bring the gospel to those who have never heard it. It’s in these wilderness places that Joseph is able to reach more people for Christ.
With his own mixed heritage, Joseph is able to relate to the Native Americans, the slaves, those with mixed heritage, the poor and all those who are oppressed. All of the things meant to hurt and destroy Joseph’s life become his witness for the love of God.
I think one of the best things about this story is that although people Joseph trusted repeatedly tried to warn him about going into feared territory, Joseph is determined to follow God. In friendships that last decades, Joseph finds the support he needs and he touches lives in many generations.
Twice a Slave is a great historical book that brings to light the not so well known facts of Native American slavery and the lives of the people who saw beyond color, race and status and forged new territory for freedom.
I received this book from the Book Club Network in exchange for my honest opinion.
Joseph’s life is filled with sorrow and he has many opportunities to submit to the temptation to give up, but his love for Jesus exceeds even his own fears. Determined to live for the Lord and to serve his one true Master, Joseph journeys to places feared and unknown to bring the gospel to those who have never heard it. It’s in these wilderness places that Joseph is able to reach more people for Christ.
With his own mixed heritage, Joseph is able to relate to the Native Americans, the slaves, those with mixed heritage, the poor and all those who are oppressed. All of the things meant to hurt and destroy Joseph’s life become his witness for the love of God.
I think one of the best things about this story is that although people Joseph trusted repeatedly tried to warn him about going into feared territory, Joseph is determined to follow God. In friendships that last decades, Joseph finds the support he needs and he touches lives in many generations.
Twice a Slave is a great historical book that brings to light the not so well known facts of Native American slavery and the lives of the people who saw beyond color, race and status and forged new territory for freedom.
I received this book from the Book Club Network in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 31, 2014
Twice a Slave is the inspiring story based on the life of Joseph Willis. Joseph’s father, Agerton Willis, was a well-to-do white man who had gone with his brothers on a slave buying expedition to Charleston (Charles Towne). Unable to stand the sight of the pitiful Africans who were being led off the boat, he went to another auction where they were selling enslaved Native Americans. When he sees beautiful Ahyoka, he buys her. Instead of making her his slave, he unlawfully makes her his wife. Joseph is born from this union. Because he was born to a slave, Joseph is a slave, although he is deeply loved by his mother and father. Agerton writes a will freeing Joseph and leaving him all his property. Following the untimely death of Agerton and Ahyoka, Joseph’s uncle declares the will null and void and vows that Joseph will remain a slave. When the Revolutionary War breaks out, Joseph runs away to fight with Francis Marion, the Swamp Fox. After returning home, Joseph will spend many years trying to be free from chattel slavery. During this time, Joseph declares himself a “slave of the Lord” and dedicates himself to forever serving Him. His work as a missionary church planter will take him to South Carolina, Mississippi, and Louisana.
This was a very interesting book covering a little known topic, Native American Slavery. The position of mixed people was very sad, not being able to marry in the church, sit with other believers as an equal, or be ordained to the ministry. The character of Joseph experienced all of this. I think young people, especially would benefit from reading this book. It would be a perfect addition to many homeschool curriculums.
I received this book from the Book Club network in exchange for my opinion.
This was a very interesting book covering a little known topic, Native American Slavery. The position of mixed people was very sad, not being able to marry in the church, sit with other believers as an equal, or be ordained to the ministry. The character of Joseph experienced all of this. I think young people, especially would benefit from reading this book. It would be a perfect addition to many homeschool curriculums.
I received this book from the Book Club network in exchange for my opinion.
August 12, 2014
I give "Twice a Slave" five stars! It is a wonderful novel based on a true story of the life of Joseph Willis. Joseph Willis was an early 19th-century minister who was the "father of the Baptist religion in Louisiana". But, don't let the historical facts stop you from reading this work of fiction.
Joseph was born a slave. He fought for many years to earn his freedom, freedom which his father granted to him, but others took away! Joseph's mother (Joy) was Cherokee, his father a white man, who had purchased Joy for two knives and a rifle. She was to be his household slave. As he got to know her, he fell in love and so began the relationship that was looked down upon, and unaccepted, by most people in that time period.
Joseph's story is one filled with strength, heartache and faith. His desire to be pleasing to God above anything else was mind boggling, his struggles to gain his freedom, saddening. He truly lived out his beliefs. He had an amazing desire to teach everyone about the love that God has for them, even when it meant placing himself in danger.
Authors Sammy Tippit & Randy Willis have done a great job describing the scenery, the trials of being of mixed blood in the late 1700s, as well as the dangers of traveling without carrying the proper documents, which gave a slave freedom to be away from his owner. They have also shown us the power of prayer and faithfulness to God. You must read this book to learn more about Joseph Willis.
I received this book from "The Book Club Network" in exchange for my honest opinion.
Joseph was born a slave. He fought for many years to earn his freedom, freedom which his father granted to him, but others took away! Joseph's mother (Joy) was Cherokee, his father a white man, who had purchased Joy for two knives and a rifle. She was to be his household slave. As he got to know her, he fell in love and so began the relationship that was looked down upon, and unaccepted, by most people in that time period.
Joseph's story is one filled with strength, heartache and faith. His desire to be pleasing to God above anything else was mind boggling, his struggles to gain his freedom, saddening. He truly lived out his beliefs. He had an amazing desire to teach everyone about the love that God has for them, even when it meant placing himself in danger.
Authors Sammy Tippit & Randy Willis have done a great job describing the scenery, the trials of being of mixed blood in the late 1700s, as well as the dangers of traveling without carrying the proper documents, which gave a slave freedom to be away from his owner. They have also shown us the power of prayer and faithfulness to God. You must read this book to learn more about Joseph Willis.
I received this book from "The Book Club Network" in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 16, 2014
This book is historical fiction at its best. The main character
of Twice a Slave is Joseph Willis. He was a brave, strong, real
person. The book was written by one of his relatives to preserve
his memory and also to show God’s love for every person alive.
The journey begins with Joseph’s father, a wealthy land owner
who married a Cherokee Indian in a clandestine ceremony. In
this era of the 1700’s, to marry a Cherokee was against the law.
Joseph was the product of this marriage thus with the death of
both his parents, because he was “mixed colors”, he became
a slave to his uncle even though his father wrote a letter to free
Joseph. Joseph with his friend, Ezekiel ran off to fight in the
Revolutionary War. There are many historical events during this
time period.
Joseph became a Christian with the desire to preach the word
of God. His life took a lot of twists and turns but Joseph always
turned to God for guidance. His goal was to preach to mixed
skin people like himself plus full blooded Indians, slaves,
runaways, outlaws, traders, pioneers and anyone in need of the
knowledge of God. His faith moved him with his family from
North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi ending in Louisiana
where he braved the worst conditions to spread the word of God.
He had a beautiful family that supported him with love and
encouragement along his hard path. The journey ends with
Joseph’s death in 1854.
This book gives you the appreciation of what people of God
experienced in that era.
Thank you to book fun.org for this ebook. My opinion is my own.
of Twice a Slave is Joseph Willis. He was a brave, strong, real
person. The book was written by one of his relatives to preserve
his memory and also to show God’s love for every person alive.
The journey begins with Joseph’s father, a wealthy land owner
who married a Cherokee Indian in a clandestine ceremony. In
this era of the 1700’s, to marry a Cherokee was against the law.
Joseph was the product of this marriage thus with the death of
both his parents, because he was “mixed colors”, he became
a slave to his uncle even though his father wrote a letter to free
Joseph. Joseph with his friend, Ezekiel ran off to fight in the
Revolutionary War. There are many historical events during this
time period.
Joseph became a Christian with the desire to preach the word
of God. His life took a lot of twists and turns but Joseph always
turned to God for guidance. His goal was to preach to mixed
skin people like himself plus full blooded Indians, slaves,
runaways, outlaws, traders, pioneers and anyone in need of the
knowledge of God. His faith moved him with his family from
North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi ending in Louisiana
where he braved the worst conditions to spread the word of God.
He had a beautiful family that supported him with love and
encouragement along his hard path. The journey ends with
Joseph’s death in 1854.
This book gives you the appreciation of what people of God
experienced in that era.
Thank you to book fun.org for this ebook. My opinion is my own.
August 5, 2014
Twice a Slave by Sammy Tippit
A fascinating novel based on the life of Joseph Willis in the mid 1700s. Joseph was a mix’t man, born to Agerton Willis and a Cherokee woman, Ahyoka. When Joseph’s father saw the beautiful Cherokee woman at the slave auction, he bought her and she later became his bride. Joseph was the child of a slave and searched for years to discover who he really was.
His mother died and before his father’s death (Agerton Willis) he did paperwork for his son Joseph to be emancipated and inherit his father’s land. Joseph’s Uncle Daniel refused to give him his freedom. Daniel had Joseph viscously beaten and made him live in a slave’s cabin.
Joseph and his friend, Ezekiel, ran away and joined the Patriots to fight against the Tories in the war for independence of the new America.
Joseph’s cousin, John, who was influential in North Carolina, sought and won Joseph’s freedom. Joseph’s life was built on prayer and the word of God. Through many prejudices, he became a preacher and followed God’s call to Louisiana to plant churches in what was called The Devil’s Playground, where there were mix’t people, the lawless, and God-denouncing inhabitants.
I loved Tippit’s description of how Joseph Willis, a powerfully spiritual man, sought and discovered God’s direction and will. Good reading for those who are on the fringes of Christianity and need to make a full commitment to Christ. This book challenged my heart. I received this book for my honest review.
A fascinating novel based on the life of Joseph Willis in the mid 1700s. Joseph was a mix’t man, born to Agerton Willis and a Cherokee woman, Ahyoka. When Joseph’s father saw the beautiful Cherokee woman at the slave auction, he bought her and she later became his bride. Joseph was the child of a slave and searched for years to discover who he really was.
His mother died and before his father’s death (Agerton Willis) he did paperwork for his son Joseph to be emancipated and inherit his father’s land. Joseph’s Uncle Daniel refused to give him his freedom. Daniel had Joseph viscously beaten and made him live in a slave’s cabin.
Joseph and his friend, Ezekiel, ran away and joined the Patriots to fight against the Tories in the war for independence of the new America.
Joseph’s cousin, John, who was influential in North Carolina, sought and won Joseph’s freedom. Joseph’s life was built on prayer and the word of God. Through many prejudices, he became a preacher and followed God’s call to Louisiana to plant churches in what was called The Devil’s Playground, where there were mix’t people, the lawless, and God-denouncing inhabitants.
I loved Tippit’s description of how Joseph Willis, a powerfully spiritual man, sought and discovered God’s direction and will. Good reading for those who are on the fringes of Christianity and need to make a full commitment to Christ. This book challenged my heart. I received this book for my honest review.
August 23, 2014
What an incredible historical true story based on the life of Joseph Willis who became the first protestant preacher west of the Mississippi River in the 1800's. The authors have done a wonderful job of matching true facts and fiction together. Joseph's father was white and his mother a Cherokee slave; therefore he was considered a slave and fought many years for his freedom. He faced the difficulties of prejudices from family and strangers, hardships, tragedies, grief and danger. An amazing story of inspiration, faith, forgiveness and love. Unable to claim his father's inheritance of freedom and his home, Joseph left and headed into the early territories of Mississippi, South Carolina and Louisiana to start and grow churches in order to bring the word and love of God to all people. He loved his family and his belief in Christ was strong. He made many friends but of course there were always enemies and danger to contend with. How did Joseph win his freedom? Who gave him encouragement and help? How did his father's brother Daniel affect Joseph's life?
I love that the authors included true facts about Joseph's life and a list of historical characters and who they were.
A great book with plenty of intrigue and drama. The story of an amazing man who followed God direction and will for his life.
I highly recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book from bookfun.org for my honest opinion and review.
I love that the authors included true facts about Joseph's life and a list of historical characters and who they were.
A great book with plenty of intrigue and drama. The story of an amazing man who followed God direction and will for his life.
I highly recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book from bookfun.org for my honest opinion and review.
September 10, 2014
Twice a Slave by Sammy Tippit is very inspiring historical novel in first person about a boy whose mother had been an Indian slave (yes, that happened a lot in the 1600s and 1700s). Even though his father was a white man, he the boy was still legally considered a slave. He had the dark coloring of his mother, so went through life being “marked.” The book describes well the heartache and hopes his life teetered between.
When he could not take the mental, emotional, physical and even legal abuse any longer, he ran away from North Carolina to South Carolina where he served in the Revolutionary War. He married and his wife died, He married again and his wife died. A third time he married and that wife died.
After becoming a Christian, he felt like he finally had meaning and an identity in the world. His faith took him to Mississippi, and Louisiana that had been controlled by the Spanish, French, and finally the US. There he encounter both hatred and friendship. His personality was such that he could usually mentally disarm many of his enemies. He preached to full-blooded Indians, half-breeds, slaves, runaways, traders and pioneers, even outlaws, all struggling the same way he had struggled. He identified with them all. He encountered swamps, mosquitoes, the mighty Mississippi, snakes, alligators.
The book ends with an amazing surprise that the reader will not see coming.
When he could not take the mental, emotional, physical and even legal abuse any longer, he ran away from North Carolina to South Carolina where he served in the Revolutionary War. He married and his wife died, He married again and his wife died. A third time he married and that wife died.
After becoming a Christian, he felt like he finally had meaning and an identity in the world. His faith took him to Mississippi, and Louisiana that had been controlled by the Spanish, French, and finally the US. There he encounter both hatred and friendship. His personality was such that he could usually mentally disarm many of his enemies. He preached to full-blooded Indians, half-breeds, slaves, runaways, traders and pioneers, even outlaws, all struggling the same way he had struggled. He identified with them all. He encountered swamps, mosquitoes, the mighty Mississippi, snakes, alligators.
The book ends with an amazing surprise that the reader will not see coming.
October 17, 2014
Although this book is listed as fiction, it is based on the real life of Joseph Willis, and co-authored by someone whose ancestors worked with the main character and with a direct descendent of him. Since I enjoy biographies and true life memoirs, I was pretty sure that I would enjoy this book. I was not disappointed. It was everything I hoped for and more.
The author explained that although it is impossible to actually know the dialogue or exact movements of all the detailed events, this book rang true due to the massive research, historical documents and oral history. This gave you a good taste of what life was like for his ancestors, who were of a mixed race at a time when racism/prejudice was at its highest. It was revealing to learn that slavery carried itself into the Indian race (in this case, Cherokee) when united with the white race, and to be treated in the same horrific actions as whippings, hangings and killings for the slightest of offenses. At the time, this type of union is called a "mulatto", or "mixed" race, which was not accepted. Although this book followed the documented life of this man as real as it could, it read just like fiction, due to the mystery, romance, suspense, and even violence that the authors ancestors were forced to endure during these times of persecution.
I loved this book, gave it 5 stars and would highly recommend it! I received this book from the author through bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review.
The author explained that although it is impossible to actually know the dialogue or exact movements of all the detailed events, this book rang true due to the massive research, historical documents and oral history. This gave you a good taste of what life was like for his ancestors, who were of a mixed race at a time when racism/prejudice was at its highest. It was revealing to learn that slavery carried itself into the Indian race (in this case, Cherokee) when united with the white race, and to be treated in the same horrific actions as whippings, hangings and killings for the slightest of offenses. At the time, this type of union is called a "mulatto", or "mixed" race, which was not accepted. Although this book followed the documented life of this man as real as it could, it read just like fiction, due to the mystery, romance, suspense, and even violence that the authors ancestors were forced to endure during these times of persecution.
I loved this book, gave it 5 stars and would highly recommend it! I received this book from the author through bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review.
August 13, 2014
Joseph Willis, the son of a white man and a Cherokee woman, must face the hardships of prejudice, difficulty, death, and faith. He is a strong man, with many questions about 'Who he is'. After Joseph comes to know the Lord as his Savior, He still must deal with all the same struggles and with the added one of what does God want for my life? He not only faces prejudices from outsiders but from family and to some aspect his friends. He is a slave to his father, whom loves him, and then a slave on his own land when his father leaves his property to him in his will yet his Uncle, whom has never excepted him, refuses to give him his inheritance. Once he accepts Christ as Savior he also sees himself as a slave to Christ. Will Joseph ever be free? Can he overcome such struggles grief? Will he have what it takes to forgive and not get bitter even when he has done nothing wrong? Can he continue to stand for God and trust him with his whole life and that of his family? There are many thing we can learn from the story of Joseph Willis.
This is a great book of fiction written with many facts, I was appalled, excited and moved by many things in this book. I would recommend it to anyone who likes fiction, nonfiction, historical, and just good Christian reading. I was given a copy of this book from bookfun.org (the book club network) for my honest opinion.
This is a great book of fiction written with many facts, I was appalled, excited and moved by many things in this book. I would recommend it to anyone who likes fiction, nonfiction, historical, and just good Christian reading. I was given a copy of this book from bookfun.org (the book club network) for my honest opinion.
September 13, 2014
I highly recommend Twice A Slave by Sammy Tippit (with Randy Willis). It is an excellent book. It is a fictionalized story based on the lives of the authors' distant relatives set in the 1700's, just after the revolutionary war. It takes you on a journey through Joseph Willis' life from the time his parents met until his death in 1854. His father was a wealthy plantation owner and his mother a Cherokee slave. Though his father married his mother in a Christian wedding ceremony, Joseph, with his mixed skin, was considered a slave. His dad willed his whole estate to Joseph upon his death, but Joseph's uncle denied him that right and made him a slave in his own home. Jospeh ran away to fight in the war. He became a Christian and felt God's call to preach. What follows is an extraordinary story of his hard won emancipation, his far reaching ministry in North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi and Louisiana and his heart wrenching loss. Though fiction, it is based on a true story, and is well worth the read for its valuable insight into the struggles of this new nation, America, and some of its patriots.
I received a copy of this book from The Book Club Network and the publisher in exchange for my honest review which I have given.
I received a copy of this book from The Book Club Network and the publisher in exchange for my honest review which I have given.
October 3, 2014
Historical story of early Christian missionaries
What an extraordinary tale of the early years in the Deep South as Christians worked diligently to spread the word of God. This story is based on the life of Joseph Willis , who was part Cherokee and lived most of his life as a slave. His story is full of adventure, and self awakening as his faith grows over the years. Life was so much more difficult in the post Civil War era, especially for those without money or position. I found it so fascinating to read this story, knowing I was reliving our country’s history. The author does a wonderful job creating the story through Joseph’s eyes so you feel like you are reading his personal diary. His struggles as a slave are heart-wrenching, and yet, he never gives up on his dream to share his faith with others. This would be a great book to have young Christians read as they are learning the history of the church. The strength of this character is profound and anyone reading his story will find their own faith growing along with Joseph.
I received this book from BookFun.org in exchange for my honest review.
What an extraordinary tale of the early years in the Deep South as Christians worked diligently to spread the word of God. This story is based on the life of Joseph Willis , who was part Cherokee and lived most of his life as a slave. His story is full of adventure, and self awakening as his faith grows over the years. Life was so much more difficult in the post Civil War era, especially for those without money or position. I found it so fascinating to read this story, knowing I was reliving our country’s history. The author does a wonderful job creating the story through Joseph’s eyes so you feel like you are reading his personal diary. His struggles as a slave are heart-wrenching, and yet, he never gives up on his dream to share his faith with others. This would be a great book to have young Christians read as they are learning the history of the church. The strength of this character is profound and anyone reading his story will find their own faith growing along with Joseph.
I received this book from BookFun.org in exchange for my honest review.
September 25, 2014
Twice a Slave by Sammy Tippit & Randy Willis was a story that surprised me. I expected to learn a little more about the unfair treatment of Native Americans, but I was pleasantly surprised by an inspirational story of what a man can accomplish when God is on his side. There are many wonderful things about this story; the dedication and devotion of a husband and wife, the love of a woman who is willing to sacrifice everything to support and encourage her husband to follow his God-given dream, the passion of a mission and ministry, and most of all, a love for Christ that compelsa man to risk it all to tell others they are loved too. If you want to be reminded that God is in control, and that he loves all his people, Twice a Slave is the book for you. I am glad to be adding this to our family library, and look forward to reading it out loud together.
I received this book from The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest opinion. Reviews are also posted on Amazon, and Deeper Shopping.
I received this book from The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest opinion. Reviews are also posted on Amazon, and Deeper Shopping.
August 12, 2014
Twice a Slave by Sammy Tippit with Randy Willis is a must read for fans of several genre - American History, the Revolutionary War Era, Native Americans, life in the Southern swamps, issues of slavery in early America, the spread of Christianity and the spirit of revival on the frontier, the mix of races in Louisiana, Mississippi and the Carolinas and standing up for ones faith. This book touches on all of these and more. I particularly like historical fiction that is steeped in actual fact and this work fits the bill. The majority of the work is the first person narrative of Joseph Willis, the son of a Cherokee mother and white father. Joseph’s narrative begins in 1772 when he was 15 years old. His Christian walk is the foundation of his story. I highly recommend this book. I often pass books on to others; however, I am keeping this one on my shelf. I received a copy of the book from the author by way of The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) in exchange for an honest review.
Read
December 15, 2018Randy Willis is an American novelist, rancher, and music publisher.
Randy Willis is the author of Destiny, Twice a Slave, Three Winds Blowing, Louisiana Wind, Beckoning Candle, The Apostle to the Opelousas, The Story of Joseph Willis, and many magazine and newspaper articles.
Randy Willis is as much at home in the saddle as he is in front of the computer where he composes his western family sagas. Drawing on his family heritage of explorers, settlers, soldiers, cowboys, and pastors, Randy carries on the tradition of loving the outdoors and sharing it in the adventures he creates for readers of his novels.
Randy Willis...novels about adventure, family, faith, and the character of men and women that touched generations.
Website: http://threewindsblowing.com
Amazon author's page:
http://amazon.com/author/randywillis
Blog: http://randywillisbooks.wordpress.com
Randy Willis is the author of Destiny, Twice a Slave, Three Winds Blowing, Louisiana Wind, Beckoning Candle, The Apostle to the Opelousas, The Story of Joseph Willis, and many magazine and newspaper articles.
Randy Willis is as much at home in the saddle as he is in front of the computer where he composes his western family sagas. Drawing on his family heritage of explorers, settlers, soldiers, cowboys, and pastors, Randy carries on the tradition of loving the outdoors and sharing it in the adventures he creates for readers of his novels.
Randy Willis...novels about adventure, family, faith, and the character of men and women that touched generations.
Website: http://threewindsblowing.com
Amazon author's page:
http://amazon.com/author/randywillis
Blog: http://randywillisbooks.wordpress.com
October 16, 2014
I received a free copy of this book courtesy of The Book Club Network for my honest review.
Twice a Slave is the true story of Joseph Willis, the founder Louisiana Baptist Association. Frowned upon by his family and the community around him for being a mulatto, Joseph must overcome obstacles to follow what God has told him to do!
I loved the fact that this is a true story. It helps you see that your life is not all that bad! Joseph was an incredible man. The author is a relative of Joseph and did an incredible job writing this book. I’d recommend this to anyone interested in the history of the Louisiana revival or missionaries in general.
I also posted a review on CBD.com and Amazon.com.
Twice a Slave is the true story of Joseph Willis, the founder Louisiana Baptist Association. Frowned upon by his family and the community around him for being a mulatto, Joseph must overcome obstacles to follow what God has told him to do!
I loved the fact that this is a true story. It helps you see that your life is not all that bad! Joseph was an incredible man. The author is a relative of Joseph and did an incredible job writing this book. I’d recommend this to anyone interested in the history of the Louisiana revival or missionaries in general.
I also posted a review on CBD.com and Amazon.com.
March 13, 2015
I really liked that this book was based on the authors' own ancestors. There is certain information that can be passed on from generation to generation. Genealogy is an interesting topic and I really enjoyed the historical aspect of this book. It was definitely a different time for Joseph, and yet there were still prejudices. In order to face adversity faith is needed. That is exactly what Joseph does. Through faith and forgiveness he makes changes in his life and the future of a nation. I also liked how the author described the states in 1758 and I could see Joseph's surroundings. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review from The Book Club Network Inc., however all opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews