Originally published in 1808, when it was reviewed in three literary publications, proving it was known and read, this novel explores issues of race and privilege openly during a time when abolition was the hot topic in Britain. The editor makes clear that the  realistic, intimate observations of life in the West Indies and in Britain show that the anonymous novel could really have been written by a woman of color. A wealthy heiress, daughter of a white plantation owner and his African slave, has restrictions in her father's will that force her to leave Jamaica for England. She must marry a cousin or lose her independence to another cousin. Intrigue and betrayal follow. Don't skip the insightful introduction that provides valuable historial background. Appendices include contemporary reviews of the novel, historical documents on race and inheritance in Jamaica, and examples of other women of color in early British prose fiction. Broadview Press. 2008. Paper. NEW. $24.00