Creola Philogène dreams of a life beyond the steamy confines of her tiny fishing village and out from the watchful eye of her oppressive grandmother. Lonely and frightened of her own sexual awakening, Creola makes a decision that will change her life irrevocably. Before long, she becomes entangled with an older man who makes her a marriage proposal, offering to take her away to start anew in America. But instead of the protectorate Creola expected, her new husband becomes her tormentor. Once in New York, Creola realizes that fighting for her freedom is not enough; to maintain it, she must achieve her independence.
In the tradition of literature’s great heroines, with its powerful imagery and poetic language, Creola’s moving tale reminds us of the pains of self-discovery as well as the trials and tribulations of journeying into womanhood. Despite the emotional hardships and taboos she carries with her from childhood, Creola emerges triumphant and learns to control her own destiny. Creola’s story is, in essence, every woman’s story.