The Spirit of Josephine

Violet Fields, an ageing black American singer in Paris clubs and music halls, reflects on her life after decades of separation and alienation from her Louisville, Kentucky origins. Inspired by the legend of Josephine Baker, Violet is visited occasionally by the spirit of Josephine. Violet’s niece, Hope, visits from the US. and facilitates Violet’s renewal of family ties. This gripping story, set in Paris, delves into racial treatment, expat experience, social mobility of African Americans, and family reunion dynamics. It is a “deliciously evocative novel. . .sure to resonate with anyone who cherishes family and treasures Paris.”

Also by Florence Ladd, Sarah’s Psalm (Scribner)