The Temptation of St. Rosalie

This is a powerful historical novel that immediately captures the reader's attention with its portrayal of the Antebellum South from the perspective of a Black slave owner. It is based upon the life of Andrew Durnford, who built a successful sugar plantation on the banks of the Mississippi, 35 miles below New Orleans. The author obtained his information for the novel from the old records of St. Rosalie Plantation, Durnford's letters, Probate Records, newspapers from the period, and historical accounts relating to New Orleans prior to the Civil War. Through his portrayal of Andrew Durnford, Daudert brings to the reader a better understanding of the various issues and attitudes that were common toward the institution of slavery during this era. Daudert has addressed slavery in an honest and unbiased manner, and The Temptation of St. Rosalie will impact readers directly with its representation of this controversial subject.