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Freedman/Johnson #4
Scarlet Carnation
In an early twentieth-century America roiling with racial injustice, class divides, and WWI, two women fight for their dreams in a galvanizing novel by the bestselling author of Golden Poppies.
1915. May and Naomi are extended family, their grandmothers’ lives inseparably entwined on a Virginia plantation in the volatile time leading up to the Civil War. For both women, the twentieth century promises social transformation and equal opportunity.
May, a young white woman, is on the brink of achieving the independent life she’s dreamed of since childhood. Naomi, a nurse, mother, and leader of the NAACP, has fulfilled her own dearest desire: buying a home for her family. But they both are about to learn that dreams can be destroyed in an instant. May’s future is upended, and she is forced to rely once again on her mother. Meanwhile, the white-majority neighborhood into which Naomi has moved is organizing against her while her sons are away fighting for their country.
In the tumult of a changing nation, these two women―whose grandmothers survived the Civil War―support each other’s quest for liberation and dignity. Both find the strength to confront injustice and the faith to thrive on their chosen paths.
1915. May and Naomi are extended family, their grandmothers’ lives inseparably entwined on a Virginia plantation in the volatile time leading up to the Civil War. For both women, the twentieth century promises social transformation and equal opportunity.
May, a young white woman, is on the brink of achieving the independent life she’s dreamed of since childhood. Naomi, a nurse, mother, and leader of the NAACP, has fulfilled her own dearest desire: buying a home for her family. But they both are about to learn that dreams can be destroyed in an instant. May’s future is upended, and she is forced to rely once again on her mother. Meanwhile, the white-majority neighborhood into which Naomi has moved is organizing against her while her sons are away fighting for their country.
In the tumult of a changing nation, these two women―whose grandmothers survived the Civil War―support each other’s quest for liberation and dignity. Both find the strength to confront injustice and the faith to thrive on their chosen paths.
319 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2022
3178 people are currently reading
7252 people want to read
About the author
Laila Ibrahim
10 books2,210 followersMy education and experience in multiracial, developmental psychology and attachment theory provide ample fodder for my novels. My passion for early childhood education, child birth and religious education are reflected in my writing.
I was the founder and director of Woolsey Children's School where I had first hand experience loving children that were not my own. There are scenes in Yellow Crocus that were largely influenced interactions I had with children from Woolsey.
As a birth doula I had the privilege of witnessing the intensity and joy of childbirth. You can see that my birth experiences are reflected in my novels.
Spiritual themes that cross over multiple religious traditions come directly from working as the Director of Children and Family Ministries at the First Unitarian Church in Oakland.
I live in a small co-housing community in Berkeley, California, with my wonderful wife, Rinda and our beloved dog, Hazel. Our young adult children are our pride and joy.
I'm very grateful to be a full time writer starting in 2015.
I was surprised when the writing bug bit me. The idea for the story came to me in 1998, I was with a group of people talking about Tiger Woods. Someone mentioned that he identifies as much as an Asian person as an African-American person. I thought to myself, "Of course he does, his mother is Asian. You form your core identity in relationship to your primary caregivers. It's a basic part of the attachment process."
Then the image of Lisbeth, a white baby, breastfeeding in the loving arms of Mattie, an enslaved wetnurse came to me in a flash. I thought about what it would be like for Lisbeth to dearly love Mattie and then be taught by society that she wasn't a full person. I wondered how it would feel for Mattie to be forced to abandon Samuel, her own child, in the slave Quarters. Then I imagined what the experience would be like for Miss Anne, the birth mother, to have her own child twist away from her to get into Mattie's arms. These characters started to haunt me. Various scenes popped into my head. Though I had never written anything, I was being called to tell this story. For my fortieth birthday, I began the personal marathon of writing my first novel. I hope you will come to love these characters as much as I have.
At face value Living Right seems like a big leap from Yellow Crocus, but it deals with the same themes: a caregiver loving across a huge societal barrier.
I LOVED returning to Mattie, Lisbeth and Jordan for Mustard Seed. The story of finding faith in hopeless times really resonates for me. I plan to return to their families' ongoing journey after I finish my current novel-Paper Wife.
Paper Wife focuses on Mei Ling, a young Chinese woman immigrating to San Francisco through Angel Island a in the early 1920's. Reactionary anti-immigration laws in the United States and warfare in China caused people desperate for survival to be misleading about their identities so they could be united with family and have access to work. Mei Ling yearns to have a life of integrity though it was built on a foundation of lies.
Golden Poppies returns to the Freedman and Johnson families. It was fascinating to bring them to California, to look at the suffrage movement, and to see how they could keep their connection strong in spite of the very different social worlds they occupied.
I'm feeling a tug to bring the descendants of these families to the 2000s. Scarlet Carnation gets us to World War 1. I'm just starting the World War 2 era novel.
I was the founder and director of Woolsey Children's School where I had first hand experience loving children that were not my own. There are scenes in Yellow Crocus that were largely influenced interactions I had with children from Woolsey.
As a birth doula I had the privilege of witnessing the intensity and joy of childbirth. You can see that my birth experiences are reflected in my novels.
Spiritual themes that cross over multiple religious traditions come directly from working as the Director of Children and Family Ministries at the First Unitarian Church in Oakland.
I live in a small co-housing community in Berkeley, California, with my wonderful wife, Rinda and our beloved dog, Hazel. Our young adult children are our pride and joy.
I'm very grateful to be a full time writer starting in 2015.
I was surprised when the writing bug bit me. The idea for the story came to me in 1998, I was with a group of people talking about Tiger Woods. Someone mentioned that he identifies as much as an Asian person as an African-American person. I thought to myself, "Of course he does, his mother is Asian. You form your core identity in relationship to your primary caregivers. It's a basic part of the attachment process."
Then the image of Lisbeth, a white baby, breastfeeding in the loving arms of Mattie, an enslaved wetnurse came to me in a flash. I thought about what it would be like for Lisbeth to dearly love Mattie and then be taught by society that she wasn't a full person. I wondered how it would feel for Mattie to be forced to abandon Samuel, her own child, in the slave Quarters. Then I imagined what the experience would be like for Miss Anne, the birth mother, to have her own child twist away from her to get into Mattie's arms. These characters started to haunt me. Various scenes popped into my head. Though I had never written anything, I was being called to tell this story. For my fortieth birthday, I began the personal marathon of writing my first novel. I hope you will come to love these characters as much as I have.
At face value Living Right seems like a big leap from Yellow Crocus, but it deals with the same themes: a caregiver loving across a huge societal barrier.
I LOVED returning to Mattie, Lisbeth and Jordan for Mustard Seed. The story of finding faith in hopeless times really resonates for me. I plan to return to their families' ongoing journey after I finish my current novel-Paper Wife.
Paper Wife focuses on Mei Ling, a young Chinese woman immigrating to San Francisco through Angel Island a in the early 1920's. Reactionary anti-immigration laws in the United States and warfare in China caused people desperate for survival to be misleading about their identities so they could be united with family and have access to work. Mei Ling yearns to have a life of integrity though it was built on a foundation of lies.
Golden Poppies returns to the Freedman and Johnson families. It was fascinating to bring them to California, to look at the suffrage movement, and to see how they could keep their connection strong in spite of the very different social worlds they occupied.
I'm feeling a tug to bring the descendants of these families to the 2000s. Scarlet Carnation gets us to World War 1. I'm just starting the World War 2 era novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 440 reviews
June 7, 2022
After enjoying Yellow Crocus, I was super excited to see a new book by Laila Ibrahim.
Scarlet Carnation takes place in the early 1900s. It’s the story of May and Naomi connected by their grandmothers who grew up on a plantation in Virginia prior to the Civil War. The racial divide is deep as May, a white woman, seeks an independent life, and Naomi, a Black nurse and leader of the NAACP, is also looking for independence and freedom in the form of buying a home for her family. It’s a time ripe with change, but full of reminders of how far there is yet to go.
My biggest takeaway is just that- there’s a long way to go. While this book is set over 100 years ago, many of the issues addressed are front and center today. The influenza pandemic also makes an appearance. What I enjoyed most about the book was its focus on mothers, and it is a timely release near Mother’s Day. My mom and I often read the same books, and this is definitely one I will be sharing with her.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
Scarlet Carnation takes place in the early 1900s. It’s the story of May and Naomi connected by their grandmothers who grew up on a plantation in Virginia prior to the Civil War. The racial divide is deep as May, a white woman, seeks an independent life, and Naomi, a Black nurse and leader of the NAACP, is also looking for independence and freedom in the form of buying a home for her family. It’s a time ripe with change, but full of reminders of how far there is yet to go.
My biggest takeaway is just that- there’s a long way to go. While this book is set over 100 years ago, many of the issues addressed are front and center today. The influenza pandemic also makes an appearance. What I enjoyed most about the book was its focus on mothers, and it is a timely release near Mother’s Day. My mom and I often read the same books, and this is definitely one I will be sharing with her.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
May 26, 2025
May was a young woman in her early twenties in 1915, in love with a young man she was sure would propose. Naomi, a cousin, was a midwife working at a nearby hospital, whose husband Willie worked on the railways, while their two sons, Cedric and Joseph, along with youngest, daughter Maggie, were happy in their lives of school and work. Naomi's biggest dream was to own their home, getting out of the rental they'd been in all their married lives.
But May's life changed dramatically, and living with her Momma and Nana Lisbeth was her only option. And with WW1 on their doorstep, and volunteers called for, Cedric and Joseph went off to fight for their country, the USA, under the stars and stripes. But racial prejudice was everywhere - directed at the Negro soldiers; at anyone of colour who owned their own home; even visiting the theatre. It was heartbreaking...
Scarlet Carnation is the 4th in the Freedman/Johnson series by Laila Ibrahim and I enjoyed it very much. The author's notes at the end were deeply interesting, and once again the characters had determination, spirit and empathy. I read the first in the series - Yellow Crocus - back in 2019, and have gradually worked my way to this one, which I'm pretty sure is the final in the series. The photo on the cover of Yellow Crocus is significant in Scarlet Carnation. A thoroughly enjoyable series, which I recommend highly.
But May's life changed dramatically, and living with her Momma and Nana Lisbeth was her only option. And with WW1 on their doorstep, and volunteers called for, Cedric and Joseph went off to fight for their country, the USA, under the stars and stripes. But racial prejudice was everywhere - directed at the Negro soldiers; at anyone of colour who owned their own home; even visiting the theatre. It was heartbreaking...
Scarlet Carnation is the 4th in the Freedman/Johnson series by Laila Ibrahim and I enjoyed it very much. The author's notes at the end were deeply interesting, and once again the characters had determination, spirit and empathy. I read the first in the series - Yellow Crocus - back in 2019, and have gradually worked my way to this one, which I'm pretty sure is the final in the series. The photo on the cover of Yellow Crocus is significant in Scarlet Carnation. A thoroughly enjoyable series, which I recommend highly.
March 1, 2022
Reunite with families from the “Yellow Crocus” series. This is a standalone, no need to have read any of the others to enjoy this book.
Now living in California, these characters are living life in the early 20th century. America in trying to decide whether or not to enter WW1, the NAACP is in its early formation as is the women’s movement, aka, Suffragettes. All of these take part in author, Laila Ibrahim’s historical saga.
Two related women tell the story: May & Naomi. May is white and convinced she is to be wed to a newly graduated professor. Things don’t go so well for her. Naomi is black, mother of three, a nurse and desperately wants to improve the living situation for her family but her husband doesn’t like change.
Ibrahim tells this story by alternating POV’s in well marked chapters. Her characters are well developed and the historical research is extensive. Make sure to read the author’s note and questions at the end of the book. It’s been 100 years since the time this story took place yet there are many relevant similarities.
Included in the story are elements of politics, race, history, family, mystery and love; a little something for everyone. It’s perfectly without violence, descriptive sexual content or foul language. A gentle read for those who enjoy historical fiction📚
Now living in California, these characters are living life in the early 20th century. America in trying to decide whether or not to enter WW1, the NAACP is in its early formation as is the women’s movement, aka, Suffragettes. All of these take part in author, Laila Ibrahim’s historical saga.
Two related women tell the story: May & Naomi. May is white and convinced she is to be wed to a newly graduated professor. Things don’t go so well for her. Naomi is black, mother of three, a nurse and desperately wants to improve the living situation for her family but her husband doesn’t like change.
Ibrahim tells this story by alternating POV’s in well marked chapters. Her characters are well developed and the historical research is extensive. Make sure to read the author’s note and questions at the end of the book. It’s been 100 years since the time this story took place yet there are many relevant similarities.
Included in the story are elements of politics, race, history, family, mystery and love; a little something for everyone. It’s perfectly without violence, descriptive sexual content or foul language. A gentle read for those who enjoy historical fiction📚
June 29, 2022
Scarlet Carnation by Laila Ibrahim had richly developed characters. As always Laila Ibrahim went into the racism of Blacks during WW I era. I felt like there wasnt as much racism as I would have expected. Perhaps bc it took place in Oakland, Ca. I told the story of a young Caucasian girl who listened to the seductions of a man who dumped her as soon as he found out she was pregnant. She struggled with what to do for herself and child. During this time Naomi a black midwife met May, the single mom. The struggles a black family goes through during this era due to racism.
I didn’t enjoy this book #4 in the series as I did the first 3. I gave the book 4🌟 because I really like the author and the subject matter.
I didn’t enjoy this book #4 in the series as I did the first 3. I gave the book 4🌟 because I really like the author and the subject matter.
August 24, 2023
I absolutely loved all 4 of these books in this series! You will get angry, cry, laugh and feel all kinds of emotions with them. Beautiful writing and I will read everything Laila writes from now on..
March 8, 2022
Well Written
This was a exceptionally well crafted book. I loved how Laila Ibrahim balanced the Woman's Sufferage movement with the oppression of Blacks in this WWI era book.
It was easy to read.
This was a exceptionally well crafted book. I loved how Laila Ibrahim balanced the Woman's Sufferage movement with the oppression of Blacks in this WWI era book.
It was easy to read.
February 14, 2022
I was fortunate enough to be one those lucky people who got to read this wonderful novel ahead of its publication in April 2022.
Each of Laila Ibrahim’s books deals with a controversial and uncomfortable topic. In Yellow Crocus, we see the relationship between Mattie, a colored wet nurse and Lisbeth, the daughter of a rich plantation owner blossom against all odds. In Mustard Seed we are presented with the cruel truths of a post-abolition society, while in Golden Poppies we find our beloved characters fighting for their rights as women. Scarlet Carnation takes these ideas further, but also introduces new ones.
Scarlet Carnation by Laila Ibrahim, I think, is dedicated to mothers first and foremost. The glue that holds the story together is the motherly love that each of the characters feel for their children. Ibrahim places the pressing issues of the time against this confronting backdrop of peace and safety of a mother’s love. May's character sheds light on the many different (and beautiful) ways in which someone can become a mother. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter how someone was conceived if they are loved and cherished.
Motherhood, it seems to me, is at the roots of this book, but also of the series as a whole. With Scarlet Carnation, I felt like whatever was happening in the outside world, it still was organically connected to this foundation of affection that Mattie started building in the very first book.
I loved this book very much and I hope with all my heart that this isn't the last one of the series! I can't recommend it enough! If it was possible, I'd give it six stars.
If you would like to read my full review of Scarlet Carnation, you can do so by clicking on the link below:
Scarlet Carnation by Laila Ibrahim, a review by CrafterFox
Each of Laila Ibrahim’s books deals with a controversial and uncomfortable topic. In Yellow Crocus, we see the relationship between Mattie, a colored wet nurse and Lisbeth, the daughter of a rich plantation owner blossom against all odds. In Mustard Seed we are presented with the cruel truths of a post-abolition society, while in Golden Poppies we find our beloved characters fighting for their rights as women. Scarlet Carnation takes these ideas further, but also introduces new ones.
Scarlet Carnation by Laila Ibrahim, I think, is dedicated to mothers first and foremost. The glue that holds the story together is the motherly love that each of the characters feel for their children. Ibrahim places the pressing issues of the time against this confronting backdrop of peace and safety of a mother’s love. May's character sheds light on the many different (and beautiful) ways in which someone can become a mother. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter how someone was conceived if they are loved and cherished.
Motherhood, it seems to me, is at the roots of this book, but also of the series as a whole. With Scarlet Carnation, I felt like whatever was happening in the outside world, it still was organically connected to this foundation of affection that Mattie started building in the very first book.
I loved this book very much and I hope with all my heart that this isn't the last one of the series! I can't recommend it enough! If it was possible, I'd give it six stars.
If you would like to read my full review of Scarlet Carnation, you can do so by clicking on the link below:
Scarlet Carnation by Laila Ibrahim, a review by CrafterFox
March 8, 2022
Kudos to the author for doing so much research! Unfortunately the story and characters seemed to be mere hooks to hang the history lessons on. This author might want to write history texts as I think she would be good at it. Novels, not so much.
March 30, 2022
This book is a continuation of a family saga series that I just absolutely love! It starts with Yellow Crocus, set in the 1800s and follows the life of two women, Lisbeth, a white plantation daughter, and Mattie, a slave and wet nurse. Each book after that one continues to follow those women and their descendants. I would absolutely recommend that you start at the beginning of this series, but I think you could read this as a stand-alone if you really wanted to.
With Scarlet Carnation, it's 1915, and we follow May and Naomi. May finds herself in a difficult situation and needs to rely on her family to help her through. Naomi is such a supportive and loving person, and I enjoyed her in this story. She's there for May, and she's there for her whole family. I loved seeing her work toward her goals.
This series continues to speak to racial inequality, and I really appreciate Laila Ibrahim's way of telling a story and bringing the issues to light. With one white and one black main character in each book, she shows the vast differences that each one experiences.
This story is told through alternating POVs between May and Naomi, and I enjoyed each view as they told their stories. The pace is pretty fast, so it felt like a quick read. I would highly recommend this one for readers that enjoy historical fiction!
I was provided a gifted copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
With Scarlet Carnation, it's 1915, and we follow May and Naomi. May finds herself in a difficult situation and needs to rely on her family to help her through. Naomi is such a supportive and loving person, and I enjoyed her in this story. She's there for May, and she's there for her whole family. I loved seeing her work toward her goals.
This series continues to speak to racial inequality, and I really appreciate Laila Ibrahim's way of telling a story and bringing the issues to light. With one white and one black main character in each book, she shows the vast differences that each one experiences.
This story is told through alternating POVs between May and Naomi, and I enjoyed each view as they told their stories. The pace is pretty fast, so it felt like a quick read. I would highly recommend this one for readers that enjoy historical fiction!
I was provided a gifted copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
June 16, 2022
I've loved this author's storytelling ever since I read the first book in this series (Yellow Crocus). I've enjoyed every book in this series. Scarlet Carnation is the 4th book, but not sure if it will be the last. The ending could easily have wrapped up this story, but there could definitely be more to tell. I certainly wouldn't be disappointed to continue with the story of the Freeman/Johnson Families.
It was great catching up with the character's that I have come to care for. As I finished this book during my lunch hour today, I had to read through the tears I shed during the last chapters.
Personally, I do not agree with reviews that state this book can be a "stand alone". To fully understand the characters and their connection through history, the series needs to be read in order.
I highly recommend this series, but please read them in order:
1. Yellow Crocus
2. Mustard Seed
3. Golden Poppies
4. Scarlet Carnation
It was great catching up with the character's that I have come to care for. As I finished this book during my lunch hour today, I had to read through the tears I shed during the last chapters.
Personally, I do not agree with reviews that state this book can be a "stand alone". To fully understand the characters and their connection through history, the series needs to be read in order.
I highly recommend this series, but please read them in order:
1. Yellow Crocus
2. Mustard Seed
3. Golden Poppies
4. Scarlet Carnation
March 9, 2022
I read Scarlet Carnation by Laila Ibrahim, who also wrote The Yellow Crocus ( which I didn't read). I wasn't impressed by this one. It's written very simplisticly and was, in my opinion, preachy. It's the story of two women in the Oakland area around 1915. They are distantly related due to a sexual encounter (aka rape) between a slave owner and a slave on the family plantation years before. One woman is white and the other is black. The story addresses racial inequality, war, women's suffrage, abortion, women's roles, etc. Also had a bit too many religious references for my taste. The story was predictable and at the same time unbelievable. I got this as a free book for being a Prime member. I assume the first book was like this one. If you read and liked Yellow Crocus I'd love to hear your thoughts.
May 18, 2022
4.5 stars for this beautifully woven tale.
This story feels so poignant right now. As the world slowly comes out of a pandemic, this one deals with a character that comes down with tuberculosis as well as the 1918 influenza. There’s a lot of talk of racial tension here which has also become so much more prevalent in recent years.
This book was told in alternating POVs - May and Naomi, two very strong and resilient women , who are related despite the fact that one is “colored” (whoever thought this was a good way to describe people?) and the other is not. But they are related because of the atrocities of slavery.
I loved the writing in this one. I absolutely adored the characters, especially Kay Lynn, May’s little disabled daughter. Reading about the attitudes of people, even doctors, towards disabilities in this time period was especially horrifying to me as a special needs mom.
The author wove this tale beautifully and seamlessly. I was so invested in May, Naomi, and their families.
I will definitely be going back to read Laila’s previous novel, Yellow Crocus, and will be looking for other novels to come!
This story feels so poignant right now. As the world slowly comes out of a pandemic, this one deals with a character that comes down with tuberculosis as well as the 1918 influenza. There’s a lot of talk of racial tension here which has also become so much more prevalent in recent years.
This book was told in alternating POVs - May and Naomi, two very strong and resilient women , who are related despite the fact that one is “colored” (whoever thought this was a good way to describe people?) and the other is not. But they are related because of the atrocities of slavery.
I loved the writing in this one. I absolutely adored the characters, especially Kay Lynn, May’s little disabled daughter. Reading about the attitudes of people, even doctors, towards disabilities in this time period was especially horrifying to me as a special needs mom.
The author wove this tale beautifully and seamlessly. I was so invested in May, Naomi, and their families.
I will definitely be going back to read Laila’s previous novel, Yellow Crocus, and will be looking for other novels to come!
April 19, 2022
I’ve read every book by this author except “Living Right” which I do not plan on reading. I loved the characters and storyline in Yellow Crocus and Mustard Seed. Golden Poppies was very good too. I was so excited about Scarlet Carnation (and what a stunningly beautiful cover!).
I’d never recommend this title as a stand-alone to anyone. That’s not a bad thing. But even having read, loved, and discussed the earlier titles in this series, I found it difficult at times to keep the characters straight.
The preaching from the author about social issues really dragged the book down. Rather than allowing the story to tell itself as she allowed to happen in the other books, it felt like the author was pushing her opinions upon her readers at every turn and on multiple issues. She is the author, that is her right. This book had what I can best describe as an angry tone. I realize that is very on trend in certain circles. Sadly, it was enough to discourage me from reading any additional books in this series (should she write more). If she publishes another about the next generation, I’ll make the decision then.
I love the characters, am invested in them, but am glad I received this book for free from Amazon as a First Reads Book.
I’d never recommend this title as a stand-alone to anyone. That’s not a bad thing. But even having read, loved, and discussed the earlier titles in this series, I found it difficult at times to keep the characters straight.
The preaching from the author about social issues really dragged the book down. Rather than allowing the story to tell itself as she allowed to happen in the other books, it felt like the author was pushing her opinions upon her readers at every turn and on multiple issues. She is the author, that is her right. This book had what I can best describe as an angry tone. I realize that is very on trend in certain circles. Sadly, it was enough to discourage me from reading any additional books in this series (should she write more). If she publishes another about the next generation, I’ll make the decision then.
I love the characters, am invested in them, but am glad I received this book for free from Amazon as a First Reads Book.
March 31, 2022
History repeats itself, over and over, and over. In her fourth installment in the series which began with Yellow Crocus, Laila Ibrahim reminds us that we often find ourselves stalled or creeping backwards as a society. The time period of Scarlet Carnation immediately piqued my interest as my novel also covers the tumultuous years of 1915-1919. I am well versed from my research in the key events which impacted the lives of Americans. From the Spanish influenza pandemic to the suffrage movement and ratification of the 19th Amendment to involvement in a global war, the main characters, cousins May and Naomi and their women-led families, navigate their lives from a female perspective, influenced by these events. They lean on each other and find strength from their familial ties, despite differences in their racial backgrounds. Ibrahim succeeds in teasing out the impact of those events in a seamless storyline while adding in lesser-known history, such as the turmoil on the Mexican border, residential zoning by race, and the emergence of the eugenics movement. I was a bit surprised to read references to Margaret Sanger in the same chapter as mentions of eugenics since Sanger went on to be accused of promoting birth control as means to control certain populations. There were also a few instances where significant issues were raised and then disappeared without resolution. At times, I found the parallels to our current events of recent years to be overly called out with a political slant: “It seems as if pain should be sprinkled throughout a life, but sometimes it’s pressed in all at once, too much to bear. Like in our nation right now: a hateful president, and a war, and a flu pandemic.” There were enough instances of showing those parallels (Auntie Diana is going to make as many masks as possible), that the overt opinions weren’t necessary. Overall, I recommend Scarlet Carnation as a successful sequel, which can also be read as standalone, to learn more about this important time in our history and how women found their place and peace within those tumultuous days.
I received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for my honest review.
I received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for my honest review.
February 15, 2022
I never want this series to end! I have become so connected with the characters in her series that I will be very sad when it ends. These novels are so well written! Another amazing story following the Freedman and Wainwright families generations and a century later in California- the fight for women's right and suffrage and there is whispers of a war but can the next election change either of those current outcomes? May Wagner knows nothing other than how her mother and grandmother have raised her so far in Oakland, CA and she is on the brink of adulthood and new achievement with her college ambitions when one decision will change the course of her life forever. Naomi Smith has a lot to be thankful for, but there is still along way to go for coloreds and immigrants to have rights and to be "free". On the brink of women having voting rights, Naomi has fought hard for herself and her children to have what her parents and grandparents never had, yet they have worked hard to get where they have and the life they current live. Her being a nurse, her husband a decent job and the possibility of them owning their own house but war is not ever far from her mind and now they not only have the war they are fighting on their own soil there is a war starting in Europe. Will her family ever be safe and free? Thank you to Lake Union for the free ARC. This is one of my favorite series, I cannot see what the family faces next, although this was a bit of a tear jerker!
May 4, 2022
I truly enjoyed how this story about two women, May and Naomi, was framed by the events of history, their own and a nation at war.
May and Naomi are distant relatives; their family lines forever braided together with their grandmothers on a plantation during the Civil War Era.
Now in 1915, May is young, single, and white. She dreams of being married and living independently of her parents when her boyfriend proposes.
Naomi is a black woman. She is a nurse, mother, and leader of the NAACP. She has dreams of owning her own home while continuing to help make progressive changes.
Hearing May and Noami’s POVs made this story much more rich and realistic, and the narrative felt very true to the era. The author brings in some heavy topics such as unwed mothers, eugenics, racism, disability, and WWI. Yet she tackles these issues without violence and with no major triggers.
A remarkable story about strong, determined women. Now I need to go back and read the rest of the series.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @lakeunionauthors for a spot on tour and a gifted copy.
May and Naomi are distant relatives; their family lines forever braided together with their grandmothers on a plantation during the Civil War Era.
Now in 1915, May is young, single, and white. She dreams of being married and living independently of her parents when her boyfriend proposes.
Naomi is a black woman. She is a nurse, mother, and leader of the NAACP. She has dreams of owning her own home while continuing to help make progressive changes.
Hearing May and Noami’s POVs made this story much more rich and realistic, and the narrative felt very true to the era. The author brings in some heavy topics such as unwed mothers, eugenics, racism, disability, and WWI. Yet she tackles these issues without violence and with no major triggers.
A remarkable story about strong, determined women. Now I need to go back and read the rest of the series.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @lakeunionauthors for a spot on tour and a gifted copy.
April 26, 2022
Life was hard in 1915, especially for women, and particularly for black women. Scarlet Carnation explores the lives of two women who are struggling with different situations of those times. One white, one black, tied together through their pasts and their grandmothers, they find themselves fighting the injustices forced upon them.
May and Naomi are family and through the pages of the book, I came to feel like family to them as well. This was a hard book to read at times, just because of the struggles they each were having to endure, but uplifting and beautiful at the same time. These were two very strong and resilient women who did whatever they needed to do for their families.
Scarlet Carnation is an outstanding historical fiction story, demonstrating the hard times of the early twentieth-century and the resiliency of the people that lived through it. I highly recommend it!
May and Naomi are family and through the pages of the book, I came to feel like family to them as well. This was a hard book to read at times, just because of the struggles they each were having to endure, but uplifting and beautiful at the same time. These were two very strong and resilient women who did whatever they needed to do for their families.
Scarlet Carnation is an outstanding historical fiction story, demonstrating the hard times of the early twentieth-century and the resiliency of the people that lived through it. I highly recommend it!
June 23, 2022
Sadly my enjoyment of this series declines with each book. This one continues the fight for suffrage and equal rights for people of colour and all women. It also covers WW1 and the growing movement towards segregation. However these issues are awkwardly addressed and although posing some jeopardy for our key characters don’t ultimately cause them grief. Three children are born in the 5 years of this book. Each birth is graphically described, unnecessarily so, I thought. The women are strong and support each other through life’s trials but never seem to have a proper conversation. - just’ trust your heart’ doesn’t seem adequate guidance for a young woman contemplating marriage to a man she doesn’t love but who could provide for her and their child better than she can do alone.
This was quite a gloomy book but lacking drama despite the dramatic events forming the backdrop.
This was quite a gloomy book but lacking drama despite the dramatic events forming the backdrop.
March 2, 2022
Dual pasts
This was such a moving story. I had tears flow throughout this special book. The mix of races and the history that is so disheartening makes this educational.
Thank you Ms . Ibrahim for such an eye opening book!!!!
This was such a moving story. I had tears flow throughout this special book. The mix of races and the history that is so disheartening makes this educational.
Thank you Ms . Ibrahim for such an eye opening book!!!!
February 4, 2025
I have loved this series, but wish so much time hadn’t gone by between this one and the original trilogy. I had a vague recollection of some of the characters, but the relationships and back stories were hinted at, but not easy enough to recall in detail. It would have helped to have a family tree or prologue as a reminder. I loved the history that was covered, though.
April 19, 2022
Read 30% good book. Two women making tough choices, trying to do the right thing. Good read so far.
March 15, 2022
This is my 4th book I’ve read by this author who I wish could be my friend!!
March 16, 2022
3 or maybe 3.5 stars. I do not regret reading this book, especially since it was my March 2022 Kindle First Reads book. Here's what I liked:
Lots of historical research, lots of great detail about life 100 years ago, primarily in the California Bay Area. Well done.
Women are the main characters, strong women. I don't mean they have all the answers, but they work hard, put family and themselves first.
Lots of focus on various areas of social, economic, racial, political, women's reproductive and people with disabilities' rights. In some ways, things were not so different in the years between 1915 and 1918, at least in that setting.
The plot has two major strands, each with its female lead. One is May, a young woman who's about 20 years old or so. She is about to start her life as an adult, when she finds herself unmarried and pregnant. She has a lot of decisions to make, a lot of questions about her family's past, and a lot of support from other women in her close and extended family. I enjoyed the pregnancy and delivery scenes, much like watching Call the Midwife.
The other character is Naomi, a generation older than May and a distant cousin. The thing is, Naomi is Black; they're related because of a common slave owner ancestor, but the two families have stayed close, and even moved together from the South to Oakland, CA. (Was this a thing back then?) Naomi is a nurse (she delivers May's baby), a member of the NAACP, an ardent fighter for Black rights, voting rights. She has grown children, two of whom serve in WWI.
Yes, it's a lot. The transitions between May's and Naomi's stories are not too smooth (and in some scenes, both characters appear). In fact, the writing needs some polish. It's very descriptive. While I enjoy envisioning the homes, the daily lives from 100 years ago, there's a lot of detail. There's a lot of tea and tears. Here's a line from one chapter:
"She wrapped her hands around the tin cup, full of warm, soothing liquid." (That's tea.) This one made me stop and read again to make sure I understood it right, never a good sign.
Here's another exchange:
"'Can you visit over tea and lemon-poppy seed cake?'
'That would be lovely,' Lisbeth agreed, her white hair pulled back in a chignon." What? How do those two clauses relate to each other? Where's the editor?
And did people say "okay" all the time back then? (Maybe, I don't know, but the language sounded a tad too 21st century.) The male characters are forgettable, and basically place-holders. The women are similar to each other in their goodness, steadfastness, hard-working attitudes.
Okay, I've complained enough. I did enjoy "visiting" the early 20th century and experiencing the daily life, health, politics, fashion and décor, food, and other aspects of life.
Bottom line: While the book is readable, I think it would have benefitted from a tighter focus. Pick one or two social issues and develop them. Have the characters grow and mature in natural ways, and give them depth. That would make a classic blockbuster, not a Hallmark Channel story.
Lots of historical research, lots of great detail about life 100 years ago, primarily in the California Bay Area. Well done.
Women are the main characters, strong women. I don't mean they have all the answers, but they work hard, put family and themselves first.
Lots of focus on various areas of social, economic, racial, political, women's reproductive and people with disabilities' rights. In some ways, things were not so different in the years between 1915 and 1918, at least in that setting.
The plot has two major strands, each with its female lead. One is May, a young woman who's about 20 years old or so. She is about to start her life as an adult, when she finds herself unmarried and pregnant. She has a lot of decisions to make, a lot of questions about her family's past, and a lot of support from other women in her close and extended family. I enjoyed the pregnancy and delivery scenes, much like watching Call the Midwife.
The other character is Naomi, a generation older than May and a distant cousin. The thing is, Naomi is Black; they're related because of a common slave owner ancestor, but the two families have stayed close, and even moved together from the South to Oakland, CA. (Was this a thing back then?) Naomi is a nurse (she delivers May's baby), a member of the NAACP, an ardent fighter for Black rights, voting rights. She has grown children, two of whom serve in WWI.
Yes, it's a lot. The transitions between May's and Naomi's stories are not too smooth (and in some scenes, both characters appear). In fact, the writing needs some polish. It's very descriptive. While I enjoy envisioning the homes, the daily lives from 100 years ago, there's a lot of detail. There's a lot of tea and tears. Here's a line from one chapter:
"She wrapped her hands around the tin cup, full of warm, soothing liquid." (That's tea.) This one made me stop and read again to make sure I understood it right, never a good sign.
Here's another exchange:
"'Can you visit over tea and lemon-poppy seed cake?'
'That would be lovely,' Lisbeth agreed, her white hair pulled back in a chignon." What? How do those two clauses relate to each other? Where's the editor?
And did people say "okay" all the time back then? (Maybe, I don't know, but the language sounded a tad too 21st century.) The male characters are forgettable, and basically place-holders. The women are similar to each other in their goodness, steadfastness, hard-working attitudes.
Okay, I've complained enough. I did enjoy "visiting" the early 20th century and experiencing the daily life, health, politics, fashion and décor, food, and other aspects of life.
Bottom line: While the book is readable, I think it would have benefitted from a tighter focus. Pick one or two social issues and develop them. Have the characters grow and mature in natural ways, and give them depth. That would make a classic blockbuster, not a Hallmark Channel story.
April 19, 2022
"Scarlet Carnation" by Laila Ibrahim seems to be a continuation of the story we were introduced to in "Mustard Seed" and "Yellow Crocus." I enjoyed both those books so knew this one would be just as good. We're introduced to Naomi and May, granddaughters of two very brave women who survived the Civil War, but in very different ways. One black, one white but both inseparable friends. The book brings their lives full circle, you could say.
As the story evolves the reader gets a glimpse into the lives of these women who are living through their own struggles of poor decisions, inequality and racism. May, the white woman, gets into some trouble and must make a life changing decision that will affect the rest of her life, and Naomi the black woman fights for equality with the NAACP. War is looming and the Spanish Flu pandemic is threatening the city, but through all this these two women continue to stand strong in the face of adversity.
It's been a while since I read the other Ibrahim books, so I had to refresh my memory by reading my reviews. It's a great story and this one could easily be read as a stand-alone but having read the other two really helped with the background of these woman and explained their relationship, which could be confusing if you don't know about their grandmothers, in my opinion. Either way, it's a really good story of survival, redemption and of course friendship and love. Happy Reading!
As the story evolves the reader gets a glimpse into the lives of these women who are living through their own struggles of poor decisions, inequality and racism. May, the white woman, gets into some trouble and must make a life changing decision that will affect the rest of her life, and Naomi the black woman fights for equality with the NAACP. War is looming and the Spanish Flu pandemic is threatening the city, but through all this these two women continue to stand strong in the face of adversity.
It's been a while since I read the other Ibrahim books, so I had to refresh my memory by reading my reviews. It's a great story and this one could easily be read as a stand-alone but having read the other two really helped with the background of these woman and explained their relationship, which could be confusing if you don't know about their grandmothers, in my opinion. Either way, it's a really good story of survival, redemption and of course friendship and love. Happy Reading!
October 15, 2022
Always such a delight to read Laila Ibrahim's emotional stories. This book did not move me as much as the Yellow Crocus trilogy vut I was so excited to meet some characters I knew si h as Mattie and Jordan ❤️
I loved May's story about her deception as a young ,oman finding out that the man who courts her is not seeing his future the way she is. As a results, she has to make tough decisions that will shape her future indelibly. I loved the theme of putting her child up for adoption until you see that she is handicapped and decide to keep her in order to protect her. I also loved the theme of listening to your heart and do what's best for you instead of what you or society expects you to do.
The Ishi character brief appearance in the beginning of the story brought realness yo the time period (pre-WWI) and I learned about Eugenics, which I will definitely read more about in the near future.
I loved May's story about her deception as a young ,oman finding out that the man who courts her is not seeing his future the way she is. As a results, she has to make tough decisions that will shape her future indelibly. I loved the theme of putting her child up for adoption until you see that she is handicapped and decide to keep her in order to protect her. I also loved the theme of listening to your heart and do what's best for you instead of what you or society expects you to do.
The Ishi character brief appearance in the beginning of the story brought realness yo the time period (pre-WWI) and I learned about Eugenics, which I will definitely read more about in the near future.
March 28, 2022
Thank you to Wunderkind PR for reaching out and for my gifted copy!
This was a beautiful story and I was honestly hooked after a few pages. There’s a dual POV, one from Naomi and one from May. Naomi’s story is about her sons going off to war and the societal wars she fights related to segregation. May’s story is more about her own personal journey has a single mother. I loved reading their stories and was equally invested in both of them.
This book touches on a lot of heavy topics, but one near the end that I found especially interesting was the Spanish flu. There were so many parallels to our pandemic now and it’s crazy to think that other people have gone through similar things before.
I think my favourite character would probably be May. She was just so raw and real and often didn’t know what to do (and wanted other people to make her decisions for her). I could relate to her a lot and I thought her story was really well done. I would’ve loved to read more about her love story, but I don’t think the focus of this book was meant to be there. Maybe in a followup novel…?
I really enjoyed this one and would recommend to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. This one comes out beginning of April so be on the lookout!!
This was a beautiful story and I was honestly hooked after a few pages. There’s a dual POV, one from Naomi and one from May. Naomi’s story is about her sons going off to war and the societal wars she fights related to segregation. May’s story is more about her own personal journey has a single mother. I loved reading their stories and was equally invested in both of them.
This book touches on a lot of heavy topics, but one near the end that I found especially interesting was the Spanish flu. There were so many parallels to our pandemic now and it’s crazy to think that other people have gone through similar things before.
I think my favourite character would probably be May. She was just so raw and real and often didn’t know what to do (and wanted other people to make her decisions for her). I could relate to her a lot and I thought her story was really well done. I would’ve loved to read more about her love story, but I don’t think the focus of this book was meant to be there. Maybe in a followup novel…?
I really enjoyed this one and would recommend to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. This one comes out beginning of April so be on the lookout!!
January 11, 2024
This is an epic, heart-wrenching historical fiction story about two families, one Black and one White, whose lives have been interconnected for many generations. This 4th and final book in the series takes place in the early twentieth century and brings up issues of racial injustice, women's rights, gentrification, WWI and the influenza pandemic, all while focusing on the specific lives and struggles of two main characters, May and Naomi.
This is the first book I've read by Laila Ibrahim, and I really enjoyed the story but felt so much for both the main characters that I now want to go back and read the whole series and find out more about what their ancestors lived through. I wish it was more widely available at libraries, I will be asking if my local library would be willing to purchase a copy!
This is the first book I've read by Laila Ibrahim, and I really enjoyed the story but felt so much for both the main characters that I now want to go back and read the whole series and find out more about what their ancestors lived through. I wish it was more widely available at libraries, I will be asking if my local library would be willing to purchase a copy!
April 30, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. It was a story of resilience and how the women faced challenges with strength and vulnerability when life has dealt harshly. I found myself tearing up several times as the book addresses racism (set around 1918), dealing with sending off sons to fight in the military, and loving your children unconditionally when disabilities are present.
I have not read the other books in this series. For the most part, I thought this book did very well as a standalone. There were some parts of the family history that I didn't fully understand, but it does make me interested in the earlier books. The author does a very good job of researching the time period and incorporating it into the story.
I have not read the other books in this series. For the most part, I thought this book did very well as a standalone. There were some parts of the family history that I didn't fully understand, but it does make me interested in the earlier books. The author does a very good job of researching the time period and incorporating it into the story.
March 23, 2022
Not my favorite among those I've read from Laila Ibrahim but worth reading. There are a multitude of stories written about living in the terrible slavery and Civil War periods but there aren't nearly as many that take place during the post-war years up to WWI. Starting in 1915 and including characters that were born into slavery this book takes a tiny look at what being black was like for a nurse in a progressive city 50 years after the war between the states. It's also a story about a young white woman and what she faces after a decision that changes her place in society. Love of family is evident throughout.
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May 26, 2022Scarlet Carnation by Laila Ibrahim follows two families, one black, one white.
The setting is California in the early 1900's.
This historical fiction was well written with complex characters.
The story is timely as the Spanish Flu and TB are both topics in this book.
The author did an incredible amount of research on the topic.
The repression of women and African Americans was heartbreaking to read
The story was also full of love and hope.
A well written story that I really enjoyed.
The setting is California in the early 1900's.
This historical fiction was well written with complex characters.
The story is timely as the Spanish Flu and TB are both topics in this book.
The author did an incredible amount of research on the topic.
The repression of women and African Americans was heartbreaking to read
The story was also full of love and hope.
A well written story that I really enjoyed.
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