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I Am Ayah: The Way Home
Set amid Sag Harbor’s vibrant African American history, bestselling author Donna Hill weaves a stunningly rich story about finding the way home…no matter how long the journey takes.
Alessandra Fleming has spent most of her life running from her past. Her budding photography career, her life in Manhattan, all serve to distract from the secrets and guilt she’s never been able to face. Then the call. Her estranged father is in the hospital…and Alessandra must return home to Sag Harbor, crumbling the first wall between her past and her present.
For some, coming home is a relief. For Alessandra, it’s a reminder of the family she’s lost, of the time she’ll never regain. But the answers—the secrets—of her family are hidden in the house, waiting for her. And the only one who may be able to help her uncover them is her father’s neighbor, Zach, who brings with him an attraction that’s intense and instantaneous, yet oddly familiar.
Now Alessandra is being pulled back not only into her own complex family history, but into the richly documented lives of four extraordinary women. Generations touched by tragedy and triumph, despair and hope. And it’s in these aching echoes of the past that Alessandra’s own story—her mistakes and her capacity to love—will take shape, guiding her to the life she’s meant to live…and the extraordinary person she will become.
Alessandra Fleming has spent most of her life running from her past. Her budding photography career, her life in Manhattan, all serve to distract from the secrets and guilt she’s never been able to face. Then the call. Her estranged father is in the hospital…and Alessandra must return home to Sag Harbor, crumbling the first wall between her past and her present.
For some, coming home is a relief. For Alessandra, it’s a reminder of the family she’s lost, of the time she’ll never regain. But the answers—the secrets—of her family are hidden in the house, waiting for her. And the only one who may be able to help her uncover them is her father’s neighbor, Zach, who brings with him an attraction that’s intense and instantaneous, yet oddly familiar.
Now Alessandra is being pulled back not only into her own complex family history, but into the richly documented lives of four extraordinary women. Generations touched by tragedy and triumph, despair and hope. And it’s in these aching echoes of the past that Alessandra’s own story—her mistakes and her capacity to love—will take shape, guiding her to the life she’s meant to live…and the extraordinary person she will become.
368 pages, Paperback
First published May 23, 2023
82 people are currently reading
1133 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
April 27, 2023
5 — heartbreaking— stars.
The story embraced a poignant narrative with an elegiac and melancholic writing that harmonized between two, distinct timelines; past and present, ancestors and descendants separated by years and divided by generations, although were inherently mingled.
The storyline combined chapters with the first person perspective from characters sharing an identical bloodline whom endured and sustained similar tragedies and oppressions; the superstructure that dominated 19th and early 20th century and subordinated black people. Albeit their retellings weren’t recurrent along the line the impact behind them is profond and movingly authentic, nonetheless.
The other chapters were the backbone of the book narrated from the third person and retraced the interior war the female protagonist was torn with. Trying to forgive her own, past and present, mistakes. Alessandra was a strong female lead but had a noxious relationship with her father since her mother’s death. She wanted to rearrange their chaotic bond at all coasts when she received a call announcing her that her father was hospitalized. One of her father’s wishes was for her to reconnect with her ancestors by understanding the epiphany behind her vivid dreams and realistic visions, from another time, disguised with ugly truths hidden by her late mother. The flashbacks were.. disturbing.
The backbone chapters contained some chapters and parts with the male protagonist’s point of view, Zack. With his and Alessandra’s perspectives the storytelling flourished into a surprisingly heartbreaking and soul-moving story about fate and soulmates, belongings and forgiveness. The bond between them was transparently powerful throughout the book but intensified the more Zach helped her figure the missing segments of her ancestral tree.
The plot was enticing, trying to comprehend why everything and everyone was somehow mangled together. What these past chapters relating the escape of a 15 years old girl prisoner had anything to do with Alessandra. Why Zach had always this contradictory —uncomfortable yet reassuring— impression that he and Alessandra had known each other, before?
But most importantly who or what Ayah is ? The only significance I knew to the word is the literal meaning, the religious islamic in wish Ayah means a Qur'anic verse. Seeing how easily and poetically the author has the capacity and power to torn and twist words I was convinced the meaning was metaphorical.. Oh, how wrong was I, cuz its significance brought so much more understanding and made the story more impactful in so many ways.
•Quotes:
I want to thank Entangled Publishing and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange of an honest review.
•———•———•———•———•———•———•
I need some sleep to recover from the plot and gather my thoughts properly 😭 Rtc..
•———•———•———•———•———•
So haaaaaappy cuz i got my FIRST ARC today!!🥳🥂🥂
THE COVER IS ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS!!😮💨
"The story of how I come to be here in this foreign land. Sometimes what I tell you will make no sense. Sometimes it will sound absurd. But in between those moments of doubts and dismissal, you may come to believe it possible that within each of us lives the essence of our existence—beginnings, middles, and endings—the paths that those before us took to bring us here."
The story embraced a poignant narrative with an elegiac and melancholic writing that harmonized between two, distinct timelines; past and present, ancestors and descendants separated by years and divided by generations, although were inherently mingled.
“I will not let these men with skin of the moon know my terror and loneliness.”
The storyline combined chapters with the first person perspective from characters sharing an identical bloodline whom endured and sustained similar tragedies and oppressions; the superstructure that dominated 19th and early 20th century and subordinated black people. Albeit their retellings weren’t recurrent along the line the impact behind them is profond and movingly authentic, nonetheless.
"The distance never seemed to put enough space between her conscience and the past."
The other chapters were the backbone of the book narrated from the third person and retraced the interior war the female protagonist was torn with. Trying to forgive her own, past and present, mistakes. Alessandra was a strong female lead but had a noxious relationship with her father since her mother’s death. She wanted to rearrange their chaotic bond at all coasts when she received a call announcing her that her father was hospitalized. One of her father’s wishes was for her to reconnect with her ancestors by understanding the epiphany behind her vivid dreams and realistic visions, from another time, disguised with ugly truths hidden by her late mother. The flashbacks were.. disturbing.
“Sometimes there’re some things that cannot and should not be explained,” she said in the musical lilt he loved to hear. “They simply exist, yeah, like the meeting of two people who share something only with each other—their unified spirits.”
The backbone chapters contained some chapters and parts with the male protagonist’s point of view, Zack. With his and Alessandra’s perspectives the storytelling flourished into a surprisingly heartbreaking and soul-moving story about fate and soulmates, belongings and forgiveness. The bond between them was transparently powerful throughout the book but intensified the more Zach helped her figure the missing segments of her ancestral tree.
"Behind her closed lids, the images of her ancestors manifested with life. They might be gone in body, but they were part of her, in her blood, in her DNA."
The plot was enticing, trying to comprehend why everything and everyone was somehow mangled together. What these past chapters relating the escape of a 15 years old girl prisoner had anything to do with Alessandra. Why Zach had always this contradictory —uncomfortable yet reassuring— impression that he and Alessandra had known each other, before?
But most importantly who or what Ayah is ? The only significance I knew to the word is the literal meaning, the religious islamic in wish Ayah means a Qur'anic verse. Seeing how easily and poetically the author has the capacity and power to torn and twist words I was convinced the meaning was metaphorical.. Oh, how wrong was I, cuz its significance brought so much more understanding and made the story more impactful in so many ways.
" I am Ayah. I am home."
•Quotes:
"Sometimes she wondered if she’d romanticized her mother simply because she was gone, or had things been as storybook as she remembered?"
"Acting as if the past don’t exist don’t make it less real; putting it behind ya don’t make it go away."
"But as new to him as Alessandra Fleming was, he couldn’t shake the sensation that he’d always known her."
"After all, everyone was a descendant."
I want to thank Entangled Publishing and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange of an honest review.
•———•———•———•———•———•———•
I need some sleep to recover from the plot and gather my thoughts properly 😭 Rtc..
•———•———•———•———•———•
So haaaaaappy cuz i got my FIRST ARC today!!🥳🥂🥂
THE COVER IS ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS!!😮💨
May 31, 2023
What a day, what a READ! I knew when I read those first few lines, “We are our ancestors’ wildest dreams. Say their names”, I got chills and I just knew this book was going to be great. I fell in love with Donna’s writing when I read her Confessions in B Flat back in 2020 and she continues to blow me away!
I went in kinda blind with this one. All I knew was that Donna wrote it and I was gonna read it. This book was a Fated mates, magical realism, Insta attraction type story. I freakin love a book that has a dual storyline. Like a contemporary/historical mash up of sorts. I like the way someone said it’s ancestors & descendants. This book ripped me apart and carefully pieced my soul back together. This was tough to read in some parts, but so necessary. I loved the heroine, the hero, this story so much!!
“Good cry helps wash out what hurts ya.” I have to say that I absolutely agree with this.
I went in kinda blind with this one. All I knew was that Donna wrote it and I was gonna read it. This book was a Fated mates, magical realism, Insta attraction type story. I freakin love a book that has a dual storyline. Like a contemporary/historical mash up of sorts. I like the way someone said it’s ancestors & descendants. This book ripped me apart and carefully pieced my soul back together. This was tough to read in some parts, but so necessary. I loved the heroine, the hero, this story so much!!
“Good cry helps wash out what hurts ya.” I have to say that I absolutely agree with this.
February 25, 2025
I have come to the conclusion that we use the term soulmates very loosely and this story made me come to this revelation. Alessandra and Zach were the true definition of the word.
This was so much more than a romance for me; it was a look into my past-our past.
Don’t go into this thinking that you’re ONLY getting a love story-you’ll get that, but that isn’t the sole focus. The focus is on Alessandra “finding her way home”, the journey it takes her to get there and the strong women that help her.
This story is pretty slow until about halfway through, but I was patient and allowed the story to carry me wherever it was that I needed to go. I was confused for about 60% of this story but it was more of being pleasantly confused. I was putting pieces of this puzzle together with half of the box available😂
As I continued to read, I realized that that is exactly what needed to happen for me to appreciate this story for what it is.
Ugh… this is a story that will stay with me for a while. I might forget the main characters names, but I will NOT forget this story.
-say her name ⛓️💥♥️✊🏾
February 7, 2025
But tonight, she was reminded that family was more than a connection by blood. The family you’re born into, and the one you make.
4.25★
A beautiful and emotional story about the intricacies of family and the legacy of ancestry in heritage.
It was fascinating to learn about the history of Sag Harbor and maroons, who were previously enslaved folks who joined up with other escapees and natives to live in their own separate, hidden communities.
The interweaved storytelling of Ayah, her past, and her descendants was done very well with Alessandra's story of her and her strained relationship with her parents. Going back home can be hard, especially for difficult reasons, but this was a poignant tale about love, family, and community.
We are the sum of all the parts that came before us. Our stories must never go untold. We must speak their names. Honor their legacies.
4.25★
A beautiful and emotional story about the intricacies of family and the legacy of ancestry in heritage.
It was fascinating to learn about the history of Sag Harbor and maroons, who were previously enslaved folks who joined up with other escapees and natives to live in their own separate, hidden communities.
The interweaved storytelling of Ayah, her past, and her descendants was done very well with Alessandra's story of her and her strained relationship with her parents. Going back home can be hard, especially for difficult reasons, but this was a poignant tale about love, family, and community.
We are the sum of all the parts that came before us. Our stories must never go untold. We must speak their names. Honor their legacies.
September 12, 2025
WOW....just wow!! 💜💜
This one started off slow, but I'm SO elated that I didn't DNF! The second half of this book was incredible! In fact, it made me appreciate the first half. This story requires patience, but it's well worth the journey!
This one started off slow, but I'm SO elated that I didn't DNF! The second half of this book was incredible! In fact, it made me appreciate the first half. This story requires patience, but it's well worth the journey!
May 22, 2023
One thing about Donna Hill, I know her books will always deliver on what was promised in the blurb, and even beyond.
My first book by her was Confessions in B Flat, that one was amazing and so is this one. I don't know how she does it. I was so invested in the story before I even started the book and, I kid you not, I opened it to the first page and started crying. LITERALLY, FIRST PAGE. THAT'S HOW HEARTBRAKING THIS BOOK IS.
I was in pain the whole time while reading, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Thank you Mrs Hill.
So this book is both a contemporary and historical novel, set in the present day but with some flashbacks/visions to the past. It's about Alessandra, a woman who comes back to her hometown because of her sick father, and stays to uncover her family history which might hold the secret to her strange visions.
She also has a helper in Zach, who's a neighbour from across the street and ohhh, I love them together. THEY REALLY WERE MEANT TO BE TOGETHER.
It's basically love at first sight, but when Donna Hill writes it you don't even notice that it's a bit too fast. I 100% believe that these two love each other.
Despite some of the hard subjects tackled, it's easy to get into the story thanks to the beautiful writing style which continues to amaze me again and again. I need to read every single book Hill has ever written. N. O. W.
The pacing is also pretty fast, but not too fast. Still, when I finished it I felt like it all went by in a flash and I wanted even more.
This is a book I'd recommend to everyone, even if you're not a fan of contemporary-historical blends, I promise you'll love this one.
*Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*
My first book by her was Confessions in B Flat, that one was amazing and so is this one. I don't know how she does it. I was so invested in the story before I even started the book and, I kid you not, I opened it to the first page and started crying. LITERALLY, FIRST PAGE. THAT'S HOW HEARTBRAKING THIS BOOK IS.
I was in pain the whole time while reading, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Thank you Mrs Hill.
So this book is both a contemporary and historical novel, set in the present day but with some flashbacks/visions to the past. It's about Alessandra, a woman who comes back to her hometown because of her sick father, and stays to uncover her family history which might hold the secret to her strange visions.
She also has a helper in Zach, who's a neighbour from across the street and ohhh, I love them together. THEY REALLY WERE MEANT TO BE TOGETHER.
It's basically love at first sight, but when Donna Hill writes it you don't even notice that it's a bit too fast. I 100% believe that these two love each other.
Despite some of the hard subjects tackled, it's easy to get into the story thanks to the beautiful writing style which continues to amaze me again and again. I need to read every single book Hill has ever written. N. O. W.
The pacing is also pretty fast, but not too fast. Still, when I finished it I felt like it all went by in a flash and I wanted even more.
This is a book I'd recommend to everyone, even if you're not a fan of contemporary-historical blends, I promise you'll love this one.
*Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*
April 27, 2023
4.75/5 ⭐️
—contemporary
—romance
—history
—an emotional read
—instant attraction
—family
“Sometimes as much as we fight against it, destiny pulls us the way we need to go. You spend the better part of your life running away from; maybe it’s time to run to.” I Am Ayah: The Way Home
This was as compelling as it was emotional.
A beautiful story about a woman who goes home to help her estranged father. That’s where she meets Zach who helps her discover the truth about her family history. With emotional moments that bring tears to your eyes, Alessandra and Zach create a gorgeous space full of love, learning to trust, and exploration in something bigger than themselves.
I Am Ayah was well done, the characters were intriguing, and it made me cry not even 1/2 of the way through. I did give it 4.75 stars because it felt a bit slowed down at times and I found myself putting the book down, but overall this book was a wonderful read full of emotions, history, and heartfelt moments.
If you’re looking for a powerful, emotional read, this one is it. It comes out May 23 and is worth the try 💞
—contemporary
—romance
—history
—an emotional read
—instant attraction
—family
“Sometimes as much as we fight against it, destiny pulls us the way we need to go. You spend the better part of your life running away from; maybe it’s time to run to.” I Am Ayah: The Way Home
This was as compelling as it was emotional.
A beautiful story about a woman who goes home to help her estranged father. That’s where she meets Zach who helps her discover the truth about her family history. With emotional moments that bring tears to your eyes, Alessandra and Zach create a gorgeous space full of love, learning to trust, and exploration in something bigger than themselves.
I Am Ayah was well done, the characters were intriguing, and it made me cry not even 1/2 of the way through. I did give it 4.75 stars because it felt a bit slowed down at times and I found myself putting the book down, but overall this book was a wonderful read full of emotions, history, and heartfelt moments.
If you’re looking for a powerful, emotional read, this one is it. It comes out May 23 and is worth the try 💞
April 9, 2023
I AM AYAH is a masterpiece of African American Historical Fiction that chronicles the journey of an African American woman who stops running away from family and home long enough to find her way home. Alessandra Fleming, a professional photographer travels back to Sag Harbor, her hometown, when her estranged father is hospitalized from a stroke. For Alessandra, going home is a chance to make amends for staying away so long and to reunite with her father. However, as we take the journey with our heroine, we will discover, just as Alessandra does, that the way home is complex, all things that were hidden must come to the light, and the past must align with the present. I like Alessandra’s character, who not only finally pieces together her family history with the help of a wise neighbor, Mrs. O, and her grandson, Dr. Zach Renard, the man who captures Alessandra’s heart.
What is equally important in this engaging story is the story-in-the-story. The historical narrative is so ingenious and so ensconced in the story that Alessandra is not the only heroine who emerges from this book. She literally stands with her ancestors. The flashback narratives of the famous Cinque and La Amistad (1839) and the Tulsa Massacre (1921) play integral roles in Alessandra discovering who she is and from whom she descends. It’s going to blow your mind! You too will declare: “Say her name!” You’ll get that when you read the book.
Talented and prolific author, Donna Hill is to be commended for this well-written story that will capture you from the first page to the the last. I highly recommend it for your reading pleasure. You will not want to put it down.
April 6, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read the book!! Just read it.
I was a little nervous given the whole “Amistad” slave aspect - (I don’t see slave/civil war/ black struggle as entertainment and always become enraged that I don’t enjoy myself - but this surprised me so much. It is NOT that type of story.
Spanning GENERATIONS of black women… beautifully told.
I love a full circle book.
I STAN A KINDRED SPIRIT type of love.
This story was so sweet. (And the sex was HOT gahhhh-lee!!
I only wish she was able to actually speak with her dad.
Why did her mom’s death and her assumptions about her dad keep her away? Guilt only? Hmmm.
Read the book!! Just read it.
I was a little nervous given the whole “Amistad” slave aspect - (I don’t see slave/civil war/ black struggle as entertainment and always become enraged that I don’t enjoy myself - but this surprised me so much. It is NOT that type of story.
Spanning GENERATIONS of black women… beautifully told.
I love a full circle book.
I STAN A KINDRED SPIRIT type of love.
This story was so sweet. (And the sex was HOT gahhhh-lee!!
I only wish she was able to actually speak with her dad.
Why did her mom’s death and her assumptions about her dad keep her away? Guilt only? Hmmm.
January 13, 2024
Really great story of endurance, overcoming, finding you, and being joyous through it all. I loved the connection through time. Kind of magical realism and fated mates. Really good read. Happy reading!
November 21, 2024
I absolutely did not want this book to end! Alessandra and Zach’s love story will live rent free in my mind and heart forever. The unique way this author created this love story was amazing. Romance , historical fiction, magical realism…. Yes please…sign me up every time!!!
May 28, 2023
A breathtaking historical fiction novel with a hint of spice about finding the way home no matter how long the journey takes. In the novel the author perfectly blends two timelines from the past and present creating an epic page-turner. I really loved how the narrative wove together two different eras simultaneously creating multiple viewpoints on this families history. Donna Hill has a real knack for taking past historical events and creating a modern relevancy with her storylines, researched documentation, and characters.
The novel follows Alessandra Fleming a woman who spent most of her life running from her past. With her aspiring career in photography and life in Manhattan she uses this as a distraction from the secrets and guilt she’s never been able to face. But after receiving a call regarding her father Alessandra must return home to Sag Harbor. For some returning home may be a good thing but for Ali it’s a constant reminder of the family she’s lost and the time she’ll never regain. Little does she know the answers and secrets of her family are hidden in their home waiting for her to return. But the only person who may be able to help her uncover the truth of the past is her father’s neighbor Zach. We watch as Alessandra discovers the truth of her family history and the documented lives of four generations of extraordinary women touched by tragedy and triumph, despair and hope.
The novel was superbly written, well-developed, and engaging to read. The pacing was fair and all of the characters gave balance to the story. The author spotlights the importance of knowing one’s family history, discovering themselves, and finding home. It also addresses different themes from slavery, family dynamics, generational trauma, and the historical injustices of African Americans.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book I found both Alessandra and Zach to be very compelling characters. It was their devotion to uncovering the truth and piecing their history together that I found so captivating. The novel was so layered from the detailed historical documents, flashback visions, moral family choices, and how both their backgrounds connected. It’s like the deeper you get into the novel the more information is revealed and you realize Ali and Zach were meant to find each other. Special thanks to the author, hearourvoicestours, & entangled_publishing for my gifted copy!!!
The novel follows Alessandra Fleming a woman who spent most of her life running from her past. With her aspiring career in photography and life in Manhattan she uses this as a distraction from the secrets and guilt she’s never been able to face. But after receiving a call regarding her father Alessandra must return home to Sag Harbor. For some returning home may be a good thing but for Ali it’s a constant reminder of the family she’s lost and the time she’ll never regain. Little does she know the answers and secrets of her family are hidden in their home waiting for her to return. But the only person who may be able to help her uncover the truth of the past is her father’s neighbor Zach. We watch as Alessandra discovers the truth of her family history and the documented lives of four generations of extraordinary women touched by tragedy and triumph, despair and hope.
The novel was superbly written, well-developed, and engaging to read. The pacing was fair and all of the characters gave balance to the story. The author spotlights the importance of knowing one’s family history, discovering themselves, and finding home. It also addresses different themes from slavery, family dynamics, generational trauma, and the historical injustices of African Americans.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book I found both Alessandra and Zach to be very compelling characters. It was their devotion to uncovering the truth and piecing their history together that I found so captivating. The novel was so layered from the detailed historical documents, flashback visions, moral family choices, and how both their backgrounds connected. It’s like the deeper you get into the novel the more information is revealed and you realize Ali and Zach were meant to find each other. Special thanks to the author, hearourvoicestours, & entangled_publishing for my gifted copy!!!
May 29, 2023
The author did a good job linking the past to the present. The romance was cute and seemed to develop organically. This book was full of rich history.
That being said, this book wasn't for me. I felt the drama wasn't really dramatic. The rift between Alexandra and her dad didn't make sense. I also didn't understand the turmoil about looking into her past (i.e. Ali scared to open the chest). I just expected more from this book. I thought her mother's secret was going to be something else, so I was kind of let down by this one overall.
That being said, this book wasn't for me. I felt the drama wasn't really dramatic. The rift between Alexandra and her dad didn't make sense. I also didn't understand the turmoil about looking into her past (i.e. Ali scared to open the chest). I just expected more from this book. I thought her mother's secret was going to be something else, so I was kind of let down by this one overall.
March 23, 2025
I have never read a love story quite like this one. The mixed bag of historical, romance, and magical realism was done so beautifully. These tropes sound too simplistic for what this book truly is! The determination of these souls to find each other again is so beautiful. Please read this book!
May 22, 2023
This book had me in tears. Donna Hill is so talented and her writing makes you just want to keep reading more and more. In this book we are featured the main character Alessandra who is a photographer and has a big exhibit coming up in New York City. But as she is trying to prepare her photos that’s she will be using for the exhibit she soon receives a phone call about her father, which instantly that’s when the story is in motion. So she travels to Sag Harbor and she couldn’t stand the place, but she couldn’t stand her father based on certain situations that happened in the past with her mother. So she arrives and she met Zach and as they both lock eyes with one another it’s like they known each other for a very long time even this is their first meeting. I honestly don’t want to give out any spoilers, but I highly recommend everyone to read this book. Just reading this book alone taught me the importance of family and always keep telling the stories of your ancestors to keep their spirits alive. To me this is a life changing book that people must pick up and read because you don’t want to miss this beautifully written book that takes you on a journey that you can never forget.
May 28, 2023
A breathtaking historical fiction novel with a hint of spice about finding the way home no matter how long the journey takes. In the novel the author perfectly blends two timelines from the past and present creating an epic page-turner. I really loved how the narrative wove together two different eras simultaneously creating multiple viewpoints on this families history. Donna Hill has a real knack for taking past historical events and creating a modern relevancy with her storylines, researched documentation, and characters.
The novel follows Alessandra Fleming a woman who spent most of her life running from her past. With her aspiring career in photography and life in Manhattan she uses this as a distraction from the secrets and guilt she’s never been able to face. But after receiving a call regarding her father Alessandra must return home to Sag Harbor. For some returning home may be a good thing but for Ali it’s a constant reminder of the family she’s lost and the time she’ll never regain. Little does she know the answers and secrets of her family are hidden in their home waiting for her to return. But the only person who may be able to help her uncover the truth of the past is her father’s neighbor Zach. We watch as Alessandra discovers the truth of her family history and the documented lives of four generations of extraordinary women touched by tragedy and triumph, despair and hope.
The novel was superbly written, well-developed, and engaging to read. The pacing was fair and all of the characters gave balance to the story. The author spotlights the importance of knowing one’s family history, discovering themselves, and finding home. It also addresses different themes from slavery, family dynamics, generational trauma, and the historical injustices of African Americans.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book I found both Alessandra and Zach to be very compelling characters. It was their devotion to uncovering the truth and piecing their history together that I found so captivating. The novel was so layered from the detailed historical documents, flashback visions, moral family choices, and how both their backgrounds connected. It’s like the deeper you get into the novel the more information is revealed and you realize Ali and Zach were meant to find each other. Special thanks to the author, @hearourvoicestours, & @entangled_publishing for my gifted copy!!!
The novel follows Alessandra Fleming a woman who spent most of her life running from her past. With her aspiring career in photography and life in Manhattan she uses this as a distraction from the secrets and guilt she’s never been able to face. But after receiving a call regarding her father Alessandra must return home to Sag Harbor. For some returning home may be a good thing but for Ali it’s a constant reminder of the family she’s lost and the time she’ll never regain. Little does she know the answers and secrets of her family are hidden in their home waiting for her to return. But the only person who may be able to help her uncover the truth of the past is her father’s neighbor Zach. We watch as Alessandra discovers the truth of her family history and the documented lives of four generations of extraordinary women touched by tragedy and triumph, despair and hope.
The novel was superbly written, well-developed, and engaging to read. The pacing was fair and all of the characters gave balance to the story. The author spotlights the importance of knowing one’s family history, discovering themselves, and finding home. It also addresses different themes from slavery, family dynamics, generational trauma, and the historical injustices of African Americans.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book I found both Alessandra and Zach to be very compelling characters. It was their devotion to uncovering the truth and piecing their history together that I found so captivating. The novel was so layered from the detailed historical documents, flashback visions, moral family choices, and how both their backgrounds connected. It’s like the deeper you get into the novel the more information is revealed and you realize Ali and Zach were meant to find each other. Special thanks to the author, @hearourvoicestours, & @entangled_publishing for my gifted copy!!!
December 9, 2024
I crieeddd a few times. From the shocking family secrets to the intimate/passionate love scenes, and acknowledgment of history, I would reread again and again and again. Beautiful story ♥️
If listening on audiobook, just know that the narrator could use a better tone. The men sounded too sassy, just from how the narrator talks. But overall, I love the book for its historical fiction.
If listening on audiobook, just know that the narrator could use a better tone. The men sounded too sassy, just from how the narrator talks. But overall, I love the book for its historical fiction.
May 10, 2023
I’ll be back after I collect my thoughts
A story. With movement. A story. Of love. A story of time.
This is a historical, a romance, and women's fiction all rolled into one full story.
Alessandra is a photographer that has a different kind of sight. She gets a call to go home to Sag Harbor because her father has had an emergency. Her father she hasn’t spoken to in 2 years and hadn’t been home to see in much longer than that. She drops everything to go “home”. Upon arrival she meets Zach outside of her fathers home. He’s an anthropologist and whenever he’s in town to visit his grandmother he checks in on Alessandra’s father also.
Since she’s been back home her sight or visions are more frequent and she can’t suppress them like her mother told her to do when she was a girl. Her mother wanted nothing to do with the past, so Alessandra knows nothing of her family or their past. She visits her father in the hospital and he leads her to her family’s past.
While Zach is working on a project for the Smithsonian on a Maroon community suspected to have been near Sag Harbor he’s also working on tracing his own family’s roots. Zach and Alessandra have an instant connection. He jumps right in with whatever she needs sometimes before she knows she needs it. A chemistry they can’t explain.
As she tries to uncover the story of her family and he works to uncover the maroon community they realize that both stories are the same. They each have a missing piece to the story. That ties them both together trough centuries, through horror , through love.
A story that brings two people together that had been searching for 2 centuries for each other. Once they find their souls they recognize each other. This is the true story of soul mates. A heart. A love.
I recommend this story. Is well written, the characters are full. And there is lots of movement. They also have nasty sex, the good kind.
A story. With movement. A story. Of love. A story of time.
This is a historical, a romance, and women's fiction all rolled into one full story.
Alessandra is a photographer that has a different kind of sight. She gets a call to go home to Sag Harbor because her father has had an emergency. Her father she hasn’t spoken to in 2 years and hadn’t been home to see in much longer than that. She drops everything to go “home”. Upon arrival she meets Zach outside of her fathers home. He’s an anthropologist and whenever he’s in town to visit his grandmother he checks in on Alessandra’s father also.
Since she’s been back home her sight or visions are more frequent and she can’t suppress them like her mother told her to do when she was a girl. Her mother wanted nothing to do with the past, so Alessandra knows nothing of her family or their past. She visits her father in the hospital and he leads her to her family’s past.
While Zach is working on a project for the Smithsonian on a Maroon community suspected to have been near Sag Harbor he’s also working on tracing his own family’s roots. Zach and Alessandra have an instant connection. He jumps right in with whatever she needs sometimes before she knows she needs it. A chemistry they can’t explain.
As she tries to uncover the story of her family and he works to uncover the maroon community they realize that both stories are the same. They each have a missing piece to the story. That ties them both together trough centuries, through horror , through love.
A story that brings two people together that had been searching for 2 centuries for each other. Once they find their souls they recognize each other. This is the true story of soul mates. A heart. A love.
I recommend this story. Is well written, the characters are full. And there is lots of movement. They also have nasty sex, the good kind.
May 31, 2023
Book: I am Ayah
Author: Donna Hill
Pgs: 336
Genre: Historical Fiction/Romance
Synopsis:
Set amid Sag Harbor’s vibrant African American history, bestselling author Donna Hill weaves a stunningly rich story about finding the way home…no matter how long the journey takes. Alessandra Fleming has spent most of her life running from her past. Her budding photography career, her life in Manhattan, all serve to distract from the secrets and guilt she’s never been able to face. Then the call. Her estranged father is in the hospital…and Alessandra must return home to Sag Harbor, crumbling the first wall between her past and her present. For some, coming home is a relief. For Alessandra, it’s a reminder of the family she’s lost, of the time she’ll never regain. But the answers—the secrets—of her family are hidden in the house, waiting for her. And the only one who may be able to help her uncover them is her father’s neighbor, Zach, who brings with him an attraction that’s intense and instantaneous, yet oddly familiar. Now Alessandra is being pulled back not only into her own complex family history, but into the richly documented lives of four extraordinary women. Generations touched by tragedy and triumph, despair and hope. And it’s in these aching echoes of the past that Alessandra’s own story—her mistakes and her capacity to love—will take shape, guiding her to the life she’s meant to live…and the extraordinary person she will become.
Review! This book really surprised me. I love a good historical Matrilineal family history especially with black women. Great mix of romance, history, and magic realism. This book was thoroughly researched and put together well. I especially liked the mention of the Maroons, which where hidden communities of enslaved people, showing a great resistance to white supremacy. Great character arc for both main characters as well.
Highly recommended! Thanks @hearourvoicestours for letting me be a part of this tour.
March 31, 2024
3.5⭐️
I really wanted this to be 4 stars but there were many moments where I was able to put the book down for days at a time. There were ebbs and flows that were just enough to keep me engaged but it felt like it rambled toward the end. There was a bit of romance that was welcomed as I like a little spice but I often questioned its place in the book, made it feel like a historical fiction/ steamy romance. The ending was nothing spectacular and kind of predictable. I’m indifferent on whether I would recommend this as a must read.
I really wanted this to be 4 stars but there were many moments where I was able to put the book down for days at a time. There were ebbs and flows that were just enough to keep me engaged but it felt like it rambled toward the end. There was a bit of romance that was welcomed as I like a little spice but I often questioned its place in the book, made it feel like a historical fiction/ steamy romance. The ending was nothing spectacular and kind of predictable. I’m indifferent on whether I would recommend this as a must read.
September 15, 2023
Great storyline, a little too long
As an archivist and history lover, I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline of the book. Documenting genealogical history is so important. I do feel the book could've been about 100 pages shorter. I definitely struggled through the first half. It took a bit too long to get to the the actual base of the story.
As an archivist and history lover, I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline of the book. Documenting genealogical history is so important. I do feel the book could've been about 100 pages shorter. I definitely struggled through the first half. It took a bit too long to get to the the actual base of the story.
June 2, 2024
I love a well written book that can seamlessly weave a tale of the past with present day. This story captured the essence of Alessandra's present life experiences with those of her ancestors. The author, Donna Hill, told a beautiful story of courage, forgiveness, love, and the power of embracing our past. I'll be reading more from this gifted storyteller.
August 8, 2023
This Journey Blessed
What an absolutely wonderful fulfilling ourney to travel with Ali, Zach, the families, and all the ancestors that came before. Those who shared their journey so that we could have this experience and Remember we come from amazing People. Asante Sana Donna Hill and team for making this journey possible. The moments moved me; I FELT THEM ALL THROUGH THEM ALL. Well done. I'll enjoy a revisit/ journey through Sag Harbor and all her memories again, real soon. Say her name and remember...Ayah! I say his name and remember... Kwaku! And I say Ashe. Ashe. Ashe.
What an absolutely wonderful fulfilling ourney to travel with Ali, Zach, the families, and all the ancestors that came before. Those who shared their journey so that we could have this experience and Remember we come from amazing People. Asante Sana Donna Hill and team for making this journey possible. The moments moved me; I FELT THEM ALL THROUGH THEM ALL. Well done. I'll enjoy a revisit/ journey through Sag Harbor and all her memories again, real soon. Say her name and remember...Ayah! I say his name and remember... Kwaku! And I say Ashe. Ashe. Ashe.
January 13, 2024
4.5⭐
I absolutely loved the storytelling in this beautifully written book. We should all be so fortunate to reclaim the history of our descendants.
I absolutely loved the storytelling in this beautifully written book. We should all be so fortunate to reclaim the history of our descendants.
May 27, 2025
Wow. This was a beautiful story. This was my first ever Donna Hill read and it will not be my last.
September 14, 2023
This was my first Donna Hill book. It was beautifully written and a easy read. My confusion would come at times with the back and forth storyline between present day and the past… thru her ancestors. Especially during the beginning with the Amistad ship.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2023
Rarely do I give 5 stars. This was one of the most beautiful stories I've ever read/listened to. From 1839 to present day was brought together so magically and beautifully it gave me goosebumps in the end. Ms. Donna Hill outdid herself, AGAIN!
October 11, 2023
definitely exceeded my expectations. switching from past to present and how the story unfolded was just so beautiful. I love ali and zach together and their love was just unmatched 🥺
July 17, 2023
a necessary read…
Beautifully and meticulously captivating, emotionally charged and skillfully created romance and historical fiction read naming the importance of oral history, family and love.
5 out 5 well deserving stars 🌟
“The story of how I come to be here in this foreign land. Sometimes what I tell you will make no sense. Sometimes it will sound absurd. But in between those moments of doubts and dismissal, you may come to believe it possible that within each of us lives the essence of our existence - beginnings, middles and endings…”
The read is told through the history of the past unfolding in the present - seamlessly transcending time through separation, survival and love.
It literally gave me goosebumps and left me in awe.
Beautifully and meticulously captivating, emotionally charged and skillfully created romance and historical fiction read naming the importance of oral history, family and love.
5 out 5 well deserving stars 🌟
“The story of how I come to be here in this foreign land. Sometimes what I tell you will make no sense. Sometimes it will sound absurd. But in between those moments of doubts and dismissal, you may come to believe it possible that within each of us lives the essence of our existence - beginnings, middles and endings…”
The read is told through the history of the past unfolding in the present - seamlessly transcending time through separation, survival and love.
It literally gave me goosebumps and left me in awe.
October 22, 2023
I liked the historical research but the romance didn’t fit in at all and the story felt like it was dragging on
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