Audacious Seminole

From Ashes to Oaks

By: F. L. Jumper

Narrated by: Stephanie Bowers Hiatt

F. L. Jumper, born on the Hollywood reservation of the Seminole Tribe, found herself living with her grandparents at six months old, after her mom divorced her dad. It was there that she learned what forgiveness looked like, sounded like, and felt like, which was helpful when she met her dad and her sister for the first time at age thirteen.

Over the course of her adulthood, she grew closer to her dad and learned what it meant to be a member of the Seminole Tribe. With her parents being remarried, she navigated a new reality with their new spouses. After her parents died, she found herself at a fork in the road, asking questions such as:

• How could she forgive the spouses of her parents after they betrayed her?
• What lessons from the history of her Seminole Tribe could help her move forward?
• How could she move beyond an overwhelming feeling of grief and pain?

Throughout this memoir, the author also celebrates her faith, which she discovered at an early age. The lessons she learned in church and from the Bible gave her the strength she needed to overcome obstacles in childhood and as an adult.

©2025 WestBow Press (P)2025 Stephanie Hiatt

Simpler, yet Complicated Times

I enjoyed the Audacious Seminole and the authors stories of growing up in the 80’s and 90’s. It was a simple time, that was complicated by family dynamics. However, the story is told with grace and perspective. I loved hearing the story read by the author, the characters were brought to life, I could hear her Grandpa’s gruff voice that was filled with the love and pride for his granddaughter. I was challenged by the authors desire to not grow bitter and to lean into forgiveness. She used spiritual practice from her Christian faith to give her strength and wisdom as she navigated one off the most difficult times of her life. I was inspired.