Black Auntie’s House of Ill Repute

A new historical novella by James R. Stevens, based on true events.

"One of Canada's master storytellers brings back to life an unforgettable heroine. It begins with Julia’s escape from slavery and continues through her feisty career as owner of Lakehead's best-known bordello. This true story includes love, bribery, murder, courtroom drama, and a horse race on the ice of Lake Superior."

– Graeme Ferguson, O.C.
Founder IMAX Corporation

"...a fascinating portrait of ‘Black Auntie’ and her Victorian era. The choice made by many women was the sex trade. No support to survive and prosper for this black woman. This is a rollicking page turner of a heroine. Black Auntie’s House Of Ill Repute gives the notion of “roughing it in the bush” a whole different set of earthly connotations."

– George Elliott Clarke
E.J. Pratt Professor of Canadian Literature
University of Toronto