← Back to search
Cover of A Free Man of Color

A Free Man of Color

Barbara Hambly (1997)

SubgenreHigh Fantasy
Age groupAdult 18+
Content ratingPG-13
Pages (Standard (250-400))
SeriesBenjamin January #1
Setting
CSM age16
Goodreads3.98

Content levels

ViolenceModerate
Sexual contentMild
LanguageMild

Protagonist archetypes

Vengeance-Driven

Synopsis

A historical mystery in 1830s New Orleans whose protagonist is a free man of color. Dr. Benjamin January, back in America after 15 years in Paris where he became a surgeon, goes to the help of a woman. In revenge, he is framed by her enemies for murder and must clear his name. A look at the complicated race relations of the period in New Orleans.

Is A Free Man of Color appropriate for my child?

Suitable for most readers 16 and up.

Historical mystery set in 1830s New Orleans features period-accurate racism, violence related to murder investigation, and complex racial themes. Appropriate for mature teens who can handle difficult historical content.

What to know going in

This book has moderate violence, mild sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include murder, racism, and violence (see the full list above).

Who'll love this

Teens interested in historical mysteries and social justice will appreciate this protagonist's fight to clear his name in a prejudiced society.

Tags

Historical MysteryHistorical FictionMurder MysteryAntebellum South