The Diary of Sarah Forbes Bonetta: A Novel

This captivating novel tells the story of Sarah Forbes Bonetta, an orphaned African princess navigating life in Victorian England while searching for her identity.

In The Diary of Sarah Forbes Bonetta: A Novel, readers are introduced to the remarkable life of Sarah Forbes Bonetta, an orphaned African princess whose journey unfolds against the backdrop of Victorian England. This compelling narrative, set in 1860, explores Sarah's transition from the fallen Oyo Empire to becoming the protégé of Queen Victoria. Victoria Princewill skillfully weaves Sarah's story, highlighting her intelligence and multilingual abilities while grappling with her identity as a young black girl in a society that often marginalizes her existence.

As Sarah celebrates her seventeenth birthday, she learns her true heritage and name, Aina, which adds layers to her character and the challenges she faces. The novel delves into her struggles to reconcile her royal status with the societal constraints imposed on her due to her gender and race. Through Sarah's eyes, readers experience the emotional highs and lows of a girl caught between two cultures, striving to assert her identity and autonomy in a world that often feels at odds with her true self.

The Diary of Sarah Forbes Bonetta: A Novel is not just a historical retelling; it is a poignant exploration of the complexities of belonging and the fight for recognition. Victoria Princewill's engaging prose invites modern readers to connect with Sarah's story, shedding light on the often-overlooked narratives of Black women in history. This book promises to resonate with anyone interested in stories of resilience and empowerment.