From a fiercely talented stylist comes a roaring epic chronicling the life and secrets of a notorious artist. When X, an iconoclastic figure and polarizing shape-shifter, dies unexpectedly, her widow, overwhelmed with grief, embarks on writing a biography of the woman she idolized. Despite X’s status as a pivotal creative force, she meticulously guarded her life story, leaving even CM, her wife, unaware of her origins. In her quest for the truth, CM uncovers a Pandora’s box of secrets and betrayals. Simultaneously, she delves into the history of the Southern Territory, a fascist theocracy that separated from the rest of the country post-World War II, now facing an uneasy reunification. This masterfully crafted literary adventure, featuring original images curated by CM, follows her journey to comprehend the woman who captivated her. CM traces X’s tumultuous path across decades, from Europe to the remnants of America’s divided territories, navigating collaborations and conflicts with figures like Bowie and Sontag. As she unravels the extent of X’s artistic endeavors, CM confronts the harsh reality of her wife’s deceptions. Blending nonfiction and fiction, this ambitious novel explores the depths of grief, art, and love, revealing the fragility of the narratives we create for ourselves.
