"""The reader is taken on a tour of (18th century)) Suriname, a country ruled by a few thousand whites, and serviced by thousands of African slaves. This novel takes place in an interesting and tumultuous period of the country's history. It is also a moving commentary on the complex societal situation during those troubled times. The author's close attention to detail and deep research into the background of this novel has paid dividends. She displays an ability to bring into focus the social mores and customs prevalent during that turbulent time."" - BOOKWIRE Review

""Historical fiction readers who look for strong female protagonists and compelling backgrounds will relish Elisabeth Samson, Forbidden Bride, based on the true story of a Free Negress who married a white man in 18th century Suriname, becoming the first woman to legally do so.

Elisabeth's actions and choices cause social and political strife on two continents. As she reveals her background, the wellspring of her decisions, and their impact on everyone around her, readers receive an exceptionally vibrant, descriptive story that requires no prior familiarity with the times, place, or politics in order to prove compelling. 

C.V. Hamilton does an outstanding job of integrating the journals for the original inspiration with a fictional overlay to create a personal, revealing, absorbing saga. From the country's history to how free individuals interact with those enslaved and the quandaries faced by whites and blacks alike, Hamilton's ability to portray influences and prejudices on all sides makes for a revealing, complex story that probes intention and attitude as well as how events evolved.

Whether it be romance and slavery, politics or home affairs, or family interactions with Colony interests, Hamilton brings Elisabeth's story to life with a solid attention to rich details that both educate and involve. These elements make Elisabeth Samson, Forbidden Bride highly recommended reading for historical fiction followers who like their stories firmly rooted in reality. The bibliographic references that conclude the story offer opportunities to relish all the nonfiction facts supporting the tale's dramatic fictional."" - Midwest Book Review

""(the author) has made reading her novel both enjoyable and enlightening. There is opulence and brutality, human kindness and primitive madness."" - Nevada Woman Magazine

""Astute historical novel that breathes life into the legendary Free Negress Elisabeth Samson...tightly woven, evenly weighted picture of Suriname."" - Linda Lane, author, Malibu 90265 and the memoir, Laser Lady Meets the Light Junkies

""A compelling history with an undercurrent of suspense."" - Dr. Michael Hogan, author of Abraham Lincoln and Mexico: A History of Courage, Intrigue and Unlikely Friendships

""Hamilton captures a colorful and disturbing period in the 18th-century history of the South American country, Suriname (formerly Dutch Guyana), Her story centers around the life of a free Negress, Elisabeth Samson, wealthy owner of sugar plantations and hundreds of slaves, and her struggle to gain legal permission from the reigning Dutch government to marry her white consort, a military captain. This is Hamilton's first novel, and she succeeds in bringing to life the prejudices, class struggles, atrocities, and the voice of the time."" - Las Vegas Sun"