Victoria Christopher Murray is the author of nine Essence bestselling novels. Her works often explore complex social themes with a penetrating insight. Murray is recognized for her distinctive writing style, which has garnered her acclaim within African American literature. Her novels offer readers deep reflections on the human experience.
The story revolves around Kyla and Jefferson Blake, who cherish their 16-year marriage filled with passion and joy. They celebrate their loving relationship, the happiness brought by their daughter, Jefferson's successful medical career, and the support of their loyal friends. Their life together is depicted as a beautiful blessing, highlighting themes of love, family, and friendship.
In her twenties, Belle da Costa Greene is hired by J. P. Morgan to curate a collection for his newly built Pierpont Morgan Library. Belle becomes a fixture on the New York society scene and one of the most powerful people in the art and book world as she helps build a world-class collection. But Belle has a secret, one she must protect at all costs. She is the daughter of Richard Greener, the first Black graduate of Harvard and a well-known advocate for equality. Belle's complexion isn't dark because of her alleged Portuguese heritage that lets her pass as white - her complexion is dark because she is African American
In 1919, a high school teacher from Washington, D.C arrives in Harlem excited to realise her lifelong dream. Jessie Redmon Fauset has been named the literary editor of The Crisis. The first Black woman to hold this position at a preeminent Negro magazine, Jessie is poised to achieve literary greatness. But she holds a secret that jeopardizes it all. W. E. B. Du Bois, the founder of The Crisis, is not only Jessie's boss, he's her lover. And neither his wife, nor their fourteen-year-age difference can keep the two apart. Amidst rumours of their tumultuous affair, Jessie is determined to prove herself. She attacks the challenge of discovering young writers with fervour, finding sixteen-year-old Countee Cullen, seventeen-year-old Langston Hughes, and Nella Larsen, who becomes one of her best friends. Under Jessie's leadership, The Crisis thrives... every African American writer in the country wants their work published there. When her first novel is released to great acclaim, it's clear that Jessie is at the heart of a renaissance in Black music, theatre, and the arts. She has shaped a generation of literary legends, but as she strives to preserve her legacy, she'll discover the high cost of her unparalleled success.
A novel explores the extraordinary partnership between First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and civil rights activist Mary McLeod Bethune—an unlikely friendship that transformed the world. The daughter of formerly enslaved parents, Mary McLeod Bethune stands firm against white supremacists, emerging as a prominent activist and educator. Her growing reputation earns her admiration from business leaders and recognition from U.S. Presidents, including Eleanor Roosevelt, who is eager to meet her. United by their commitment to women’s rights and education, Mary and Eleanor quickly become confidantes, sharing their secrets, hopes, and dreams while supporting each other through challenges and victories. As Franklin Delano Roosevelt becomes president, the two women collaborate more closely, especially as Eleanor begins to pursue her own initiatives following the painful discovery of her husband's affair. Eleanor's outspoken nature on civil rights makes her a controversial First Lady, and threats against her due to her association with Mary only strengthen their resolve to fight for justice and equality. This narrative highlights the profound impact of their friendship, showcasing how two passionate and committed women laid the groundwork for the modern civil rights movement.