Reviews
There are few figures in New Orleans history as alluring as Marie Laveau...a figure who stood at the very nexus of religion, magic, commerce, and history and this fascinating, well-documented volume is the worthy result. [T]his biographer, determined as she is to get at the facts about this mysterious woman, understands the appeal of the legend--the reason for its survival--even as she painstakingly dismantles it.
--New Orleans Times-Picayune
…compelling…
--The Birmingham Times
In an era when most black Southern women were slaves, this savvy woman found not only freedom but tremendous power through her resourcefulness.
--Deep
…a fine book, amply researched and well written…a labor of love…
--Catholic Southwest: A Journal of History & Culture
" Like the New Orleanians she so admires, Long has made an important contribution to the city's cultural revival. Her book's cornucopia of documentary evidence reaches well beyond the specifics of Laveau and her family. It is a vital new thread in the rich tapestry of New Orleans history."
--Journal of Southern History
" Long begins to pierce the legend(s) and approach a biography that is neither scandalous or hagiographic. Long provides more facts and artifacts than any of her predecessors. Manages to bring together scant facts into a narrative."
--Ashe Journal
" Long has brought Marie Laveau closer to life and, in doing so, has reveled many of the specificities of New Orleans and its society through history."
--Caribbean Studies
" An intriguing and well-researched study not only of Marie Laveau, but also of the history and folkways of old New Orleans."
--Louisiana History