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The Black #4
Anthony: Unshackled
Joan Vassar’s captivating Black series picks up on the gritty streets of New York City during the height of the Civil War. Anthony, mired in pain and still reeling from the death of his best friend, travels to Manhattan on an errand for the legendary Black. Once the task is complete, he finds himself at a brothel specializing in dark women.
When circumstances lead Anthony to steal a young woman from the infamous Hen House, he forever changes the course of his life and the lives of the people of Fort Independence. Fresh out of options, Anthony is forced to seek assistance to right the wrongs his actions have caused. Black comes to his aid and the men ride out to keep peril away from the fort.
Anthony: Unshackled is a gripping tale of redemption, love and liberty. Join Joan Vassar, Black and the men on yet another nail biting, heart-pounding journey.
When circumstances lead Anthony to steal a young woman from the infamous Hen House, he forever changes the course of his life and the lives of the people of Fort Independence. Fresh out of options, Anthony is forced to seek assistance to right the wrongs his actions have caused. Black comes to his aid and the men ride out to keep peril away from the fort.
Anthony: Unshackled is a gripping tale of redemption, love and liberty. Join Joan Vassar, Black and the men on yet another nail biting, heart-pounding journey.
322 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
August 8, 2024
“When a man leads, he cannot be governed by 🐱–it is the root to evil.”
I think it’s safe to say that every man at The Fort and beyond were definitely ruled by BIG P not the little one😮💨😆
Anthony was definitely channeling his inner Monica in this book after he “kicked down the door and snatched ya chick” or whatever she said 🤭 because after dealing with the lost of his best friend, his brother, his right hand, the macaroni to his cheese he decided to blow off steam at the P*ssy Parlor only to end up turning ish upside down in a matter of minutes and because his bro’s were with him and also with the sh*ts, this led them writing some checks that mfs were definitely going to collect on.
Well from what we’ve come to learn about Anthony and the other men at The Fort, they STAY ready so they don’t have to get ready! Chyyyyy these men were not fkn around in book 4 and they had me on the edge of my seat, blood pressure high and heart spinning like the wheel of fortune 🥴😩 As always, I LOVED seeing Black in his element! That man is a LEADER. From the way he leads his household to his men, he has such a commanding presence that you can’t help but to submit to! And it’s because of this that so many of the others are also coming out of their shells and into their own.
⛓️💥It was that liquid gold for me because even in the 1800’s they knew it had healing properties
⛓️It was these big negros pillow talking and kiki’ing with their women at night
⛓️💥It was the “spilling of seeds” for me because baby that last war PRODUCED after those seeds were sown 😆
⛓️It was Sunday stepping up and proving why she’s THEE Mrs. Nat Black Turner for me
⛓️💥It will always be Morgan for me! That woman does not fk around!
I’m extremely sad that this series is coming to an end and that I’m officially approaching the last book. These characters from Black to Sunday to Shultz and Mary from little Otis and little Nat and dare I say Callie and the black cracker all have formed a special place in my heart and I’m going to be sad to see them go!
P.S. It forever up behind Elbert 🥰
I think it’s safe to say that every man at The Fort and beyond were definitely ruled by BIG P not the little one😮💨😆
Anthony was definitely channeling his inner Monica in this book after he “kicked down the door and snatched ya chick” or whatever she said 🤭 because after dealing with the lost of his best friend, his brother, his right hand, the macaroni to his cheese he decided to blow off steam at the P*ssy Parlor only to end up turning ish upside down in a matter of minutes and because his bro’s were with him and also with the sh*ts, this led them writing some checks that mfs were definitely going to collect on.
Well from what we’ve come to learn about Anthony and the other men at The Fort, they STAY ready so they don’t have to get ready! Chyyyyy these men were not fkn around in book 4 and they had me on the edge of my seat, blood pressure high and heart spinning like the wheel of fortune 🥴😩 As always, I LOVED seeing Black in his element! That man is a LEADER. From the way he leads his household to his men, he has such a commanding presence that you can’t help but to submit to! And it’s because of this that so many of the others are also coming out of their shells and into their own.
⛓️💥It was that liquid gold for me because even in the 1800’s they knew it had healing properties
⛓️It was these big negros pillow talking and kiki’ing with their women at night
⛓️💥It was the “spilling of seeds” for me because baby that last war PRODUCED after those seeds were sown 😆
⛓️It was Sunday stepping up and proving why she’s THEE Mrs. Nat Black Turner for me
⛓️💥It will always be Morgan for me! That woman does not fk around!
I’m extremely sad that this series is coming to an end and that I’m officially approaching the last book. These characters from Black to Sunday to Shultz and Mary from little Otis and little Nat and dare I say Callie and the black cracker all have formed a special place in my heart and I’m going to be sad to see them go!
P.S. It forever up behind Elbert 🥰
December 25, 2021
Welcome Back To Fort Independence....
In this installment, Anthony is sent on an errand to New York for Black and after the errand is completed the guys decide to unwind....during a visit a few issues come up and ultimately actions Anthony decides to take during that visit is the catalyst for the next set of events. Anthony decides to take Emma from the henhouse, which put the lives of our Fort Independence in jeopardy. This time our Author decided to take another approach to fill us in on the Fort. After Anthony realizes what he's done and reports the matter back to Black and the rest of the 22....plans are made to try and correct the matter and the 22 head out back to New York. This time the battles and bloodshed were not the focal point of the story; instead, soon after arriving to New York to implement their plan, Jeremiah starts to take ill....initially, the thought was he wasn't use to the New York bitter cold....The 22 handle the New York situation with an adjusted plan and less bloodshed and head back to the Fort...With more people sick....Jeremiah is believed to have start what they all believe to be influenza. It was touch and go for a few members...I even thought we would loss Jeremiah...but, again, they put their heads together and devised a plan of survival.
Black is a relatively quiet man, but we were allowed to see a glimpse of the way he thinks, being able to understand him more as a father, husband, and leader who has a lot on him trying to keep the people of the Fort safe. I love when there's a mission and Black leaves the women in Charge...Sunday really understand how to take command and now that Morgan is hanging out with the women...it's even better...because Morgan still understand how to think like one of the men.
Joan You continue to intrigue me with your writing ability....I can't say more than you've already heard about your phenomenal talent. Jakobi as always you killed each and every character...you are an amazing talent!
In this installment, Anthony is sent on an errand to New York for Black and after the errand is completed the guys decide to unwind....during a visit a few issues come up and ultimately actions Anthony decides to take during that visit is the catalyst for the next set of events. Anthony decides to take Emma from the henhouse, which put the lives of our Fort Independence in jeopardy. This time our Author decided to take another approach to fill us in on the Fort. After Anthony realizes what he's done and reports the matter back to Black and the rest of the 22....plans are made to try and correct the matter and the 22 head out back to New York. This time the battles and bloodshed were not the focal point of the story; instead, soon after arriving to New York to implement their plan, Jeremiah starts to take ill....initially, the thought was he wasn't use to the New York bitter cold....The 22 handle the New York situation with an adjusted plan and less bloodshed and head back to the Fort...With more people sick....Jeremiah is believed to have start what they all believe to be influenza. It was touch and go for a few members...I even thought we would loss Jeremiah...but, again, they put their heads together and devised a plan of survival.
Black is a relatively quiet man, but we were allowed to see a glimpse of the way he thinks, being able to understand him more as a father, husband, and leader who has a lot on him trying to keep the people of the Fort safe. I love when there's a mission and Black leaves the women in Charge...Sunday really understand how to take command and now that Morgan is hanging out with the women...it's even better...because Morgan still understand how to think like one of the men.
Joan You continue to intrigue me with your writing ability....I can't say more than you've already heard about your phenomenal talent. Jakobi as always you killed each and every character...you are an amazing talent!
March 10, 2022
Wild&Black AsEver
May 29, 2020
MsLady
I was pleasantly surprised to run across Anthony and shackled. The book did not disappoint me. I was a one time afraid that Jeremiah would die. Being the black series I feel like I’m reading about family. Can’t wait for the Fort (book 5). I hope it’s soon it gives me something to do during the pandemic. Thanks Joan keep writing you have a fan for life.
I was pleasantly surprised to run across Anthony and shackled. The book did not disappoint me. I was a one time afraid that Jeremiah would die. Being the black series I feel like I’m reading about family. Can’t wait for the Fort (book 5). I hope it’s soon it gives me something to do during the pandemic. Thanks Joan keep writing you have a fan for life.
August 19, 2024
The saga continues, and it has me holding my breath. In book 4 we see Anthony struggling to deal with the grief of losing his best friend and brother, Luke. In his struggle he cause some mayhem that the men are ready to ride out and deal with expeditiously. We get more of Black being the LEADER that he is as well more life at Fort Independence. I loved catching up with the characters and watching them progress. We even get to hear from some characters that we hadn’t heard before.
Favorite Moments:
-Anthony cooking 😂 and Emma eating.
-Bainesworth still being ready to roll at any time. 😂
-Elbert! It’ll always be him for me.
-Callie & the black cracker (& the healing properties of the boobies.)
-Morgan being ready for whatever still. A dress ain’t stopping nothing.
Favorite Moments:
-Anthony cooking 😂 and Emma eating.
-Bainesworth still being ready to roll at any time. 😂
-Elbert! It’ll always be him for me.
-Callie & the black cracker (& the healing properties of the boobies.)
-Morgan being ready for whatever still. A dress ain’t stopping nothing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 18, 2020
Nice to be back at Fort Independence. Black, Elbert, James and the crew are such an intriguing cast of characters, as are Sunday, Callie, Morgan and all the women who love and support them.
There was a whole lot going on in this book. I liked Anthony, and while his incident with Emma triggered the conflict here, it never really felt like his story. Anthony was tough, but he seemed very unsure of himself and in his head about everything; Black seemed unsure of him, too. His actions started the conflict, and while he was not often far from Black’s side, he didn’t seem to play a notable part in resolving it. I know that he’s still suffering from Luke’s death, but since the book is named for him, I thought it would focus more on him.
Absolutely intrigued by the peek at the next book in the series. Can’t wait to find out what is going on. And who’s behind it. Wondering if the outcast has anything to with it.
There was a whole lot going on in this book. I liked Anthony, and while his incident with Emma triggered the conflict here, it never really felt like his story. Anthony was tough, but he seemed very unsure of himself and in his head about everything; Black seemed unsure of him, too. His actions started the conflict, and while he was not often far from Black’s side, he didn’t seem to play a notable part in resolving it. I know that he’s still suffering from Luke’s death, but since the book is named for him, I thought it would focus more on him.
Absolutely intrigued by the peek at the next book in the series. Can’t wait to find out what is going on. And who’s behind it. Wondering if the outcast has anything to with it.
August 22, 2021
Unmeasured Literary Brilliance
This novel is a forced of unmeasured literary brilliance! The mental mindset and discipline the author Joan Vassar has to have to articulate such descriptive raw passion and emotion in this story astounds me. From the intimate relationships between man and woman and between brothers to any confrontation that can potentially endanger or disrupt Fort life, I felt the intensity, the urgency, the desire, the need, the passion, the pain, the hurt and laughter and love in these characters to protect the residents of The Fort and The Fort itself by any means necessary.
The prowess that Black exemplifies as a husband, father, brother, son and leader who carries the charge of many becomes taxing at times, but he handles it with meticulous care understanding his responsibilities as a man who commands and exudes authority and respect… just from a look. The 22 is to be feared and reckoned with because Black and his brothers are about Fort survival and nothing or no one will disrupt their way of living, not even the president of a country The Fort and it’s residents do not in.
Anthony’s story is another beautiful tragedy causing the 22 to ride out, but in doing so I was able to see, this is more than Anthony. One man cannot do it alone and as he’s reluctant to accept help, the band of his brothers come to his aid to bring resolution and peace through a trek the 22 has never encountered. They endured grave conditions and encountered dangerous situations that had me eager with anticipation of what was to come. I found myself rereading scenes as if you’d rewind a movie because you just have to see it again. It’s that good!
I love and appreciated the deeper insight of the 22, how they operate as a family, a unit, a team, their daily interactions with their Fort brothers and as family men who allows themselves to be open and vulnerable to a woman’s love that provides balance and grounds them giving hope and purposeful meaning as men.
Upon completing this novel, I needed time to gather my thoughts as what to say about the beautiful complexity I just absorbed. I feel as though I’ve been transported into the year 1863, acting as a bystander watching life on The Fort and with the 22 unfold as they ride out. I enjoyed the journey they took me on and I looking forward to the next time we mount up and ride out…
This novel is a forced of unmeasured literary brilliance! The mental mindset and discipline the author Joan Vassar has to have to articulate such descriptive raw passion and emotion in this story astounds me. From the intimate relationships between man and woman and between brothers to any confrontation that can potentially endanger or disrupt Fort life, I felt the intensity, the urgency, the desire, the need, the passion, the pain, the hurt and laughter and love in these characters to protect the residents of The Fort and The Fort itself by any means necessary.
The prowess that Black exemplifies as a husband, father, brother, son and leader who carries the charge of many becomes taxing at times, but he handles it with meticulous care understanding his responsibilities as a man who commands and exudes authority and respect… just from a look. The 22 is to be feared and reckoned with because Black and his brothers are about Fort survival and nothing or no one will disrupt their way of living, not even the president of a country The Fort and it’s residents do not in.
Anthony’s story is another beautiful tragedy causing the 22 to ride out, but in doing so I was able to see, this is more than Anthony. One man cannot do it alone and as he’s reluctant to accept help, the band of his brothers come to his aid to bring resolution and peace through a trek the 22 has never encountered. They endured grave conditions and encountered dangerous situations that had me eager with anticipation of what was to come. I found myself rereading scenes as if you’d rewind a movie because you just have to see it again. It’s that good!
I love and appreciated the deeper insight of the 22, how they operate as a family, a unit, a team, their daily interactions with their Fort brothers and as family men who allows themselves to be open and vulnerable to a woman’s love that provides balance and grounds them giving hope and purposeful meaning as men.
Upon completing this novel, I needed time to gather my thoughts as what to say about the beautiful complexity I just absorbed. I feel as though I’ve been transported into the year 1863, acting as a bystander watching life on The Fort and with the 22 unfold as they ride out. I enjoyed the journey they took me on and I looking forward to the next time we mount up and ride out…
August 11, 2020
More intellect less violence
This is book the four in the Black series. This author continues to impress me. She has a unique way of telling a story.
Anthony is not the main character, however, his actions are the catalyst for the events that transpire.
Anthony made a decision that affected the Fort and put lives at stake. In this book the battles and bloodshed were not the focus as was the case in the other installments. We didn't get the blow by blow accounts. We got to know more about the daily lives of Black, his brothers and other families living at Fort Independence. Black moves in silence but the author allowed us a glimpse into his thought process. We get to understand him more as a father, husband, and leader who has a lot of weight on his shoulders. We once again see Sunday's strength when put to the test. Parts made me laugh and parts made me sad. In every book the author does something that upsets me but I keep coming back. Please don't kill Callie as some have requested. I look forward to returning to Fort Independence. I can't get enough of Elbert and Jeremiah.
This is book the four in the Black series. This author continues to impress me. She has a unique way of telling a story.
Anthony is not the main character, however, his actions are the catalyst for the events that transpire.
Anthony made a decision that affected the Fort and put lives at stake. In this book the battles and bloodshed were not the focus as was the case in the other installments. We didn't get the blow by blow accounts. We got to know more about the daily lives of Black, his brothers and other families living at Fort Independence. Black moves in silence but the author allowed us a glimpse into his thought process. We get to understand him more as a father, husband, and leader who has a lot of weight on his shoulders. We once again see Sunday's strength when put to the test. Parts made me laugh and parts made me sad. In every book the author does something that upsets me but I keep coming back. Please don't kill Callie as some have requested. I look forward to returning to Fort Independence. I can't get enough of Elbert and Jeremiah.
April 3, 2022
The more I read, the more I fall in love...
Anthony is having a hard time with Luke death, so when some of the 22 are New York, they take him to the pussy parlor where he meets Emma and realized she doesn't belong there and when he takes her, it causes so much trouble. Returning back to the Fort, they let know Black know what happened. When word got out that the Mayors cousin was killed, the Mayor wanted who ever did it dead. Going back to New York to take of this problem, things got hard, but in the end, the 22 prevailed. These 22 men and their women have a permanent place in my heart. They didn't just protect themselves from slavery, they protected anyone who needed it!!!
Anthony is having a hard time with Luke death, so when some of the 22 are New York, they take him to the pussy parlor where he meets Emma and realized she doesn't belong there and when he takes her, it causes so much trouble. Returning back to the Fort, they let know Black know what happened. When word got out that the Mayors cousin was killed, the Mayor wanted who ever did it dead. Going back to New York to take of this problem, things got hard, but in the end, the 22 prevailed. These 22 men and their women have a permanent place in my heart. They didn't just protect themselves from slavery, they protected anyone who needed it!!!
July 21, 2026
My least favorite of the series thus far. Any book following book three was going to have huge shoes to fill, but this fell short in ways I didn't expect. I want to say I understood Anthony's actions, and that Emma deserved to be rescued but, really, his lack of thought and planning just caused a huge problem for everyone. Also, I know a few people said they didn't like Elbert (who I LOVE LOL), but though Elbert is rough around the edges, blunt, violent, possessive, and he pretty much told Anna she was his from the start, the way Anthony went about things with Emma rubbed me the wrong way at first. I just didn't love them.
To further annoy me, what is this new development with Callie and Black? From whence did this come?? I'm not amused. Furthermore, Black playing on Jeremiah's insecurities was not cute, and was beneath him, even though they tried to turn it into a joke and the author tried to throw in Sunday and Elbert. The Callie/Black thing, even though he rescued her and Jeremiah, just doesn't ring true or make sense to me and I have seen no build up to this at all. Her being all hysterical and tossing her babies to the side to go care for Jeremiah, even though it worked out, annoyed me. I liked her in Book 3, but truly I would not have been mad if she took a long walk off a short pier. The only thing is that Jeremiah would have been inconsolable. Furthermore, Black taking forever to go back to Sunday was understandable at first, and then just got ridiculous. Sir, go home to your wife!!
The thing I love about this series is that Black, while being a visionary, leader, and a sexy, strong black man, is not without flaws, and I appreciate that about him. This book, he just seemed to be doing dumb things to be contrary.
The best part of this book was the final scene with the Mayor. I'm wary to pay for Book 5, but I've already come this far. Still, the author is AMAZING, the characters are addictive, the storytelling is excellent, and the nuggets of humor tickle me.
To further annoy me, what is this new development with Callie and Black? From whence did this come?? I'm not amused. Furthermore, Black playing on Jeremiah's insecurities was not cute, and was beneath him, even though they tried to turn it into a joke and the author tried to throw in Sunday and Elbert. The Callie/Black thing, even though he rescued her and Jeremiah, just doesn't ring true or make sense to me and I have seen no build up to this at all. Her being all hysterical and tossing her babies to the side to go care for Jeremiah, even though it worked out, annoyed me. I liked her in Book 3, but truly I would not have been mad if she took a long walk off a short pier. The only thing is that Jeremiah would have been inconsolable. Furthermore, Black taking forever to go back to Sunday was understandable at first, and then just got ridiculous. Sir, go home to your wife!!
The thing I love about this series is that Black, while being a visionary, leader, and a sexy, strong black man, is not without flaws, and I appreciate that about him. This book, he just seemed to be doing dumb things to be contrary.
The best part of this book was the final scene with the Mayor. I'm wary to pay for Book 5, but I've already come this far. Still, the author is AMAZING, the characters are addictive, the storytelling is excellent, and the nuggets of humor tickle me.
January 31, 2022
Sip Approved
Let’s Set the Mood Right Quick:
Anthony Unshackled by Joan Vassar
Drink: The Runaway
Music: In Case You Didn’t Know by Brett Young, I’ll Be Missing You by Puff Daddy ft Faith Evans and 112
Audible: Jakobi Diem: Jakobi once again performed. He shows the versatility that he has when doing accents and voices. Quinn’s Irish brogue was so distinct and spot on. Not to mention the way he seems to change his tone to fit the ages of the characters. His voice for Anthony put you in the mind set of a young man in his early twenties while also being able to jump into the tone of an elderly person and giving it a completely different vibe. The audible is a must.
Anthony: If, “something to prove,” was a person it would be Anthony. As one of the youngest in the Twenty-two Anthony struggled to establish his manhood within himself.
Emma: If, “young and naive,” was a person it would be Emma. She struggled with finding her voice which led her into some misunderstanding.
Lou: If, “don’t judge a book by its cover,” was a person it would be Lou. He is a fierce and loving protector that likes to portray himself as mean as sh*t.
Molly: If, “survivor,” was a person it would be Molly. She didn’t let her circumstances stop her from being the kind individual that she is.
The Twenty-two: If, “organized n*ggas,” was a group it would be the Twenty-two. No matter what the world may believe they get sh*t done.
Book 4 in the Black series took us through the process of grief, and it shows that the heartache doesn’t end just because the book did. It showed how differently characters deal with it and how it can alter your actions. This book showed how important it is to come together in times of need and how vital it is not to put anyone ahead of the group. Joan Vassar is truly the tyer of all lose ends. This is a must read for sure.
Recipe can be found on Google by Angostura Solera
Let’s Set the Mood Right Quick:
Anthony Unshackled by Joan Vassar
Drink: The Runaway
Music: In Case You Didn’t Know by Brett Young, I’ll Be Missing You by Puff Daddy ft Faith Evans and 112
Audible: Jakobi Diem: Jakobi once again performed. He shows the versatility that he has when doing accents and voices. Quinn’s Irish brogue was so distinct and spot on. Not to mention the way he seems to change his tone to fit the ages of the characters. His voice for Anthony put you in the mind set of a young man in his early twenties while also being able to jump into the tone of an elderly person and giving it a completely different vibe. The audible is a must.
Anthony: If, “something to prove,” was a person it would be Anthony. As one of the youngest in the Twenty-two Anthony struggled to establish his manhood within himself.
Emma: If, “young and naive,” was a person it would be Emma. She struggled with finding her voice which led her into some misunderstanding.
Lou: If, “don’t judge a book by its cover,” was a person it would be Lou. He is a fierce and loving protector that likes to portray himself as mean as sh*t.
Molly: If, “survivor,” was a person it would be Molly. She didn’t let her circumstances stop her from being the kind individual that she is.
The Twenty-two: If, “organized n*ggas,” was a group it would be the Twenty-two. No matter what the world may believe they get sh*t done.
Book 4 in the Black series took us through the process of grief, and it shows that the heartache doesn’t end just because the book did. It showed how differently characters deal with it and how it can alter your actions. This book showed how important it is to come together in times of need and how vital it is not to put anyone ahead of the group. Joan Vassar is truly the tyer of all lose ends. This is a must read for sure.
Recipe can be found on Google by Angostura Solera
July 22, 2020
Joan Does it Again!
In Anthony Unshackled (The Black Series Number 4) Joan Vassar continues with her innate ability for storytelling, character and scene development as she takes her readers through another journey of historical romance. Anthony Unshackled started out with a bang, plateaued for a bit but once I was halfway through the book, Vassar hit her stride and never looked back. Vassar is so subtle that you might find yourself missing key elements and nuances of the storyline. Joan, you are so clever! The love scenes are sensual and passionate and I enjoy that all the strong virile characters are vulnerable for their female counterparts.
As with any good novel, there were a couple things that I could have done without. Like the plethora of characters and long chapters but that wouldn’t be Joan Vassar book if those components were diminished or missing. Vassar has the ability to evoke strong emotions that had me rooting for the redemption and sympathy of a villain to feeling disdain and contempt for the main character. How does she do that???
I thought we were done in book 3 but now there is a book 5 and you know what, I will be there for that book too! So if you are looking for a book that celebrates black excellence, black masculinity and intelligence then this series is for you.
I give this book 4.5 stars.
EyeCU Approved and Highly Recommended
In Anthony Unshackled (The Black Series Number 4) Joan Vassar continues with her innate ability for storytelling, character and scene development as she takes her readers through another journey of historical romance. Anthony Unshackled started out with a bang, plateaued for a bit but once I was halfway through the book, Vassar hit her stride and never looked back. Vassar is so subtle that you might find yourself missing key elements and nuances of the storyline. Joan, you are so clever! The love scenes are sensual and passionate and I enjoy that all the strong virile characters are vulnerable for their female counterparts.
As with any good novel, there were a couple things that I could have done without. Like the plethora of characters and long chapters but that wouldn’t be Joan Vassar book if those components were diminished or missing. Vassar has the ability to evoke strong emotions that had me rooting for the redemption and sympathy of a villain to feeling disdain and contempt for the main character. How does she do that???
I thought we were done in book 3 but now there is a book 5 and you know what, I will be there for that book too! So if you are looking for a book that celebrates black excellence, black masculinity and intelligence then this series is for you.
I give this book 4.5 stars.
EyeCU Approved and Highly Recommended
December 1, 2020
I am my brother's keeper
I recommend this book and the entire series because it is extraordinary! The suspense against the backdrop of historical romance is in a class by itself. The main and supporting characters are strong and determined. Fort Independence leadership and residents must prepare as the men return from New York ill with influenza and facing quarantine from their wives, women, and children. Not to men social distance from each to control a virus. In addition, Black struggles with his decisions too when a woman commits suicide shortly after being rescued. Each character becomes more courageous and vulnerable as they attempt to maintain their freedom and lifestyle. Joan Vassar is an amazing author; there's great depth and character building in her writings.
I recommend this book and the entire series because it is extraordinary! The suspense against the backdrop of historical romance is in a class by itself. The main and supporting characters are strong and determined. Fort Independence leadership and residents must prepare as the men return from New York ill with influenza and facing quarantine from their wives, women, and children. Not to men social distance from each to control a virus. In addition, Black struggles with his decisions too when a woman commits suicide shortly after being rescued. Each character becomes more courageous and vulnerable as they attempt to maintain their freedom and lifestyle. Joan Vassar is an amazing author; there's great depth and character building in her writings.
January 19, 2021
A quote from the book reads...“Better for you if ya use this time to understand that you is mine-anything else is a waste.”
No matter how big and mean they are…It appeared “The P” was an attraction that most men couldn’t ignore. The way these no nonsense, gun totting, rugged men get a whiff of the P, lay claim to the P, fall hard for the P and put it all on the line for the P brings THE BLAZE EVERY TIME🔥
While this wasn’t my favorite storyline in “The Black Series”... I appreciate how Joan Vassar’s great attention to detail and masterful weaving of historical events with fictional settings brings “Anthony: Unshackled” to life. I am highly anticipating the finale going out with a BANG!!! BELIEVE THE HYPE! 1-Click NOW!
Ebony
EyeCU Reading Approved and Recommended
No matter how big and mean they are…It appeared “The P” was an attraction that most men couldn’t ignore. The way these no nonsense, gun totting, rugged men get a whiff of the P, lay claim to the P, fall hard for the P and put it all on the line for the P brings THE BLAZE EVERY TIME🔥
While this wasn’t my favorite storyline in “The Black Series”... I appreciate how Joan Vassar’s great attention to detail and masterful weaving of historical events with fictional settings brings “Anthony: Unshackled” to life. I am highly anticipating the finale going out with a BANG!!! BELIEVE THE HYPE! 1-Click NOW!
Ebony
EyeCU Reading Approved and Recommended
April 13, 2022
Joan Vassar is a master storyteller. This installment had so many things going on I couldn't put the book down because I was sure I would miss something. Anthony and Emma had a sweet love that was fun to watch develop. Their friendship was pure so when they finally came together to "couple" it felt genuine. The other storylines: Black & Suday, Calli & Jeramiah were so complicated. I'll have to go back and re-read their story to unravel some of those complexities. I was so engaged at every point in this story. Black and the 22 are complex characters with so much riding on their success. I'm soo ready for The Fort!
March 11, 2021
Oh goodness!
So good. Sooo good! I am so invested in this series, I can’t hardly deal! All of the characters have become real to me and I am not ashamed to admit it! 🥴 This book was so good and now that I know another is coming I can relax and wait for everything to continue. Joan Vassar, ma’am. You have made these characters so robust and awesomely relatable and real that you can never be done with writing about them! All these children they are having, it should just continue. I’m just saying. Excellent book, please read!
So good. Sooo good! I am so invested in this series, I can’t hardly deal! All of the characters have become real to me and I am not ashamed to admit it! 🥴 This book was so good and now that I know another is coming I can relax and wait for everything to continue. Joan Vassar, ma’am. You have made these characters so robust and awesomely relatable and real that you can never be done with writing about them! All these children they are having, it should just continue. I’m just saying. Excellent book, please read!
June 2, 2020
I loved getting reacquainted with these amazing characters. I am an avid reader and have read some really good historical fiction and this is among the best. It is rare for black characters to be portrayed as intelligent, loving and sexual human beings. I love that Joan Vassar shows Black as an intelligent, masculine man who has dignity and loves and cherishes his woman. I love the intimacy shown between the couples. I love the brotherhood shown between the men.
June 3, 2020
Excellent read and series
Love this author and this series. This book kept me wanting to know what’s going to happen next from the beginning to the end. Love the strength of the characters and the obvious love, even when not clearly spoken is shown. Love how history is entwined throughout so wonderfully it’s hard to believe it’s not factual. Can’t wait for the next one. I have recommended this series to quite a few of my friends and they also love the series.
Love this author and this series. This book kept me wanting to know what’s going to happen next from the beginning to the end. Love the strength of the characters and the obvious love, even when not clearly spoken is shown. Love how history is entwined throughout so wonderfully it’s hard to believe it’s not factual. Can’t wait for the next one. I have recommended this series to quite a few of my friends and they also love the series.
December 8, 2023
Another great installment of the Black Series. There was so much going on, I'm exhausted for the 22. Assisting President Lincoln, rescuing orphans, civil war, the racist North, and Influenza that almost took some of the men out. This one was far less violent than the last, but I love Black and most of the characters. Anthony's action is the match that started this fire, but most of the book is not really about him. Jakobi's narration brings all the characters to life.
On to book 5
On to book 5
July 20, 2020
Unexpected Incidents With An Ending that I Did Not See Coming
This fourth book in the Black Series met my expectations and beyond. Readers, meet new characters and are enthralled from the journeys and have to hold on for the ride(s). Ms. Vassar is such a phenomenal storyteller and has the ability to develop complex characters with depth and flaws. Simply Put...Ms. Vassar has created a remarkable series B.L.A.CK.
This fourth book in the Black Series met my expectations and beyond. Readers, meet new characters and are enthralled from the journeys and have to hold on for the ride(s). Ms. Vassar is such a phenomenal storyteller and has the ability to develop complex characters with depth and flaws. Simply Put...Ms. Vassar has created a remarkable series B.L.A.CK.
July 28, 2020
Pleasure reading
Well damn! What started out as a pussy parlor story turned into a mystery novel. I couldn’t read this book as steadily as I read the other novels by this author, but I was able to read and put together the pieces of the other novels in this series. Looking forward to the final installment in this series.
#EyeCU approved
Well damn! What started out as a pussy parlor story turned into a mystery novel. I couldn’t read this book as steadily as I read the other novels by this author, but I was able to read and put together the pieces of the other novels in this series. Looking forward to the final installment in this series.
#EyeCU approved
September 29, 2026
This was probably my least favorite in the series so far. This book didn’t really feel like it was about Anthony or his journey with Emma. There was also the last 20-30% of the book that seemed longer than it needed to be even though the book isn’t a large one. Overall being on the fort is always a good time but this didn’t captivate me like the other books in the series.
May 31, 2020
Mr.Black Fearless leader
Once again Black and eighteen rode with fearlessness .He had a mission was accompanied Army of Soldiers.Make no mistake about they.won't ✋until.task completed
Once again Black and eighteen rode with fearlessness .He had a mission was accompanied Army of Soldiers.Make no mistake about they.won't ✋until.task completed
July 6, 2020
I love all things JV!
I want more...BLACK!! Amazing stories. I feel that these stories hold more truth than what we have been taught. I have often wondered where are the BLACK MEN of the Slave Abolishment Movement of the 1700 - 1800's? Well...here's some of the story.
I want more...BLACK!! Amazing stories. I feel that these stories hold more truth than what we have been taught. I have often wondered where are the BLACK MEN of the Slave Abolishment Movement of the 1700 - 1800's? Well...here's some of the story.
August 8, 2020
Intriguing
This was a page turner. Surprise ending. This author is a gifted storyteller who possesses excellent writing skills. I hate cliffhangers Joan Vassar...Lol. I am a fan. Great Read.!
This was a page turner. Surprise ending. This author is a gifted storyteller who possesses excellent writing skills. I hate cliffhangers Joan Vassar...Lol. I am a fan. Great Read.!
August 11, 2020
Can't get enough of this series
The 18 now 22 has been a great read. I just live how Vassar still stay true to the time, but still gives us the strong Black male. Great time piece novel. Waiting for the next journey.
The 18 now 22 has been a great read. I just live how Vassar still stay true to the time, but still gives us the strong Black male. Great time piece novel. Waiting for the next journey.
February 6, 2021
What happens next?! Can't wait to find out!
Love the story ,
Was not expecting the cliffhanger ending leaving me wanting more. Anxiously awaiting the follow up. Recommend the entire series!
Love the story ,
Was not expecting the cliffhanger ending leaving me wanting more. Anxiously awaiting the follow up. Recommend the entire series!
March 5, 2021
Awesome
I totally enjoyed this book. She was so on point with everything. I usually shy away from stories that include slavery,however i am very glad that I read this series. I am so looking forward to the next book in this series!
I totally enjoyed this book. She was so on point with everything. I usually shy away from stories that include slavery,however i am very glad that I read this series. I am so looking forward to the next book in this series!
March 10, 2021
More?
Thought this was the end of the series but obviously three more story to come. It seemed like some people were going to die from the flu but love and working together won out. Now who's going to be missing from The Fort?
Thought this was the end of the series but obviously three more story to come. It seemed like some people were going to die from the flu but love and working together won out. Now who's going to be missing from The Fort?
August 25, 2021
Loved it!!!
I love this series sooooo much and I can’t wait for the next book. I love when a book can make me laugh and have my mouth dropping at the same time. Joan really knows how to write a good story !
I love this series sooooo much and I can’t wait for the next book. I love when a book can make me laugh and have my mouth dropping at the same time. Joan really knows how to write a good story !
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