In 1838, Catholic priests sold 272 enslaved individuals to support Georgetown University. "The 272" by Rachel L. Swarns delves into this historical event, focusing on the Mahoney family, whose lineage traces back to Ann Joice, a free Black woman turned indentured servant in the late 1600s. Her descendants, enslaved by Jesuit priests, carried the tale of her lost freedom through generations. The book highlights the family's struggles, including the sale of Harry Mahoney's children, Louisa and Anna, in 1838. While one daughter escaped, the other was sold to Louisiana, separating the family until modern journalism reunited them. This narrative sheds light on the Catholic Church's reliance on slavery for growth and the ongoing efforts for reparations and reconciliation.

In "Bitter and Sweet," two sisters, Mariah and Sabrina, find themselves at a pivotal moment in their lives. Mariah's world is turned upside down when her husband unexpectedly asks for a divorce and takes over the business she worked hard to build. Meanwhile, Sabrina is grappling with her own struggles, living out of her van and yearning to follow in her mother's footsteps as a baker. Their lives take an unexpected turn when their grandmother summons them to Georgetown, South Carolina, with a mysterious message. Instead of facing a family health crisis, the sisters are tasked with saving their family's restaurant. As they delve into letters from their great-great-grandmother, Tabitha, they uncover a poignant story of resilience and determination from the 1920s. Through Tabitha's experiences in Charleston during a time of racial oppression, Mariah and Sabrina find inspiration and guidance. The sisters must confront their own past traumas and bridge the emotional distance between them to forge a new path forward. Set against the backdrop of both historical and modern-day Charleston, "Bitter and Sweet" explores themes of love, family, and the enduring strength of heritage.

In this compelling narrative, the story unravels the haunting legacy of 272 enslaved individuals sold by a prominent university to secure its financial future in the 19th century. Through meticulous research and poignant storytelling, the book delves into the lives of these enslaved people and their descendants, exploring themes of identity, resilience, and the enduring impact of historical injustices. It sheds light on the complex interplay between institutions, slavery, and the ongoing quest for justice and reconciliation, offering a profound reflection on America's troubled past and its echoes in the present.