Review Highlights Beyond Romance -- HISTORY AND CULTURAL L.A
Bad Billy Review (Musician)
This novel was compelling, mystical, witchy and arrogant! Ms. Godin has a very colorful way with words, the beatnik lengua of L.A. She paints a picture telling tales of love, romance, from rags to riches, success and failure. A love story of an artist spanning four decades. I like her use of expressions, old sayings and acronyms. Godin certainly has a flare with using American English.
Dawnbreaker (Accountant)
This novel brought back the feel and tone of the 70's -- vibrant and cultural. The Southwest, its native culture and the pain and pride of survival. I cried. I laughed. I ranted and I will rave to all of my friends about this story.
Totally Honest Review (Biologist)
I loved this book and could not wait to read it every evening. I was very sad when I hit the last chapter of the book and it came to a closing. I loved the story, the characters, the development of the characters, the creative descriptions. Cordi's wasp-like waist and many other ideas and relationships and descriptions that made me think that I could relate to: Cordi's relationship with her mother. I loved the details about the native community in southern California, many transplants for various reasons. I loved the period references and pop culture, Macy Gray, Rickie Lee Jones, etc. ... I really can't wait for the next novel by this author. I am really very picky about writing style, stories, facts used in fiction, history, a compelling/interesting story setting/place, female perspective and NATIVE STORIES!
Intergenerational-Trauma Driven Academic Review (High School Teacher)
Following this storyline of pain and healing was very emotional and moving. It speaks through the turbulence of finding success, and ultimately peace, against a backdrop of intense Intergenerational trauma, and despite injustices of the present, I found the description of Los Angeles to be particularly interesting and colorful. I also appreciated the witty moments of humor throughout the book. The author provides a true historical background for her characters. This history is not well known, though compelling. It illustrates how generations shape our lives--a narrative of resilience, empowerment and hope.
Introducing Antoinette Godin
A New Literary Voice
Antoinette Godin is a debut novelist based in Tacoma, Washington, who explores themes of Native American identity in her work. An enrolled member of the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe and a UCLA Law graduate, she has practiced tribal law for over three decades. Antoinette is also a proud finalist in the 2026 Next Generation Indie Book Awards (BIPOC), and the 2026 American Legacy Book Awards (ALBA), where her novel, 'Native Brush Strokes,' has garnered national attention.
Praise for Native Brush Strokes
"Through vivid, fast-paced storytelling, the novel explores the personal and cultural struggles of a Native artist, offering an authentic glimpse into the era that spans three decades of social landscape. A must read!"
-Amazon reviewer
"I was surprised at how compelling a read Native Brush Strokes is. The intricacy of the plot line, the historical descriptors of the time like the song references, and the apparent authenticity of the urban Indian experience were features of this work I quickly came to appreciate. "
-Amazon reviewer
This is a book by Antoinette Godin that keeps you constantly wondering how the story will unfold. The crescendo ending is a shocker, beautifully reflecting themes of Native American identity through the use of Native Brush Strokes.