Fiction – Historical – 20th Century – African American and Black

RELEASE DATE: 2/24/2026 (WILL SHIP DIRECTLY FROM OUR SUPPLIER’S WAREHOUSE)

Inspired by real-life legendary choreographer Katherine Dunhams groundbreaking expedition into the heart of Caribbean dance culture, this uniquely captivating novel imagines the experiences of three very different women who accompany her, hoping to find their destiniesyet find themselves forced to survive a historic event . . .

Chicago, 1935. Othella is an orphaned con artist who needs to escape the city’s brutal underworld… or else. Vivian Jean is a wealthy wife, student, and anthropologist eager to prove herself professionally and personally. Zinzi is a Jamaican labor union activist determined to bring change to her homeland’s plantation system. Thanks to a series of fortunate mishaps and coincidences, all three join Dunhams voyage to the Maroon village of Accompong in Jamaicas Cockpit Countryand perhaps discover what they desperately want most . . .

Through skill and curiosity, Othella becomes a valued member of the expedition, even as she struggles to conceal her past. Zinzi’s knowledge of the Cockpit allows the expedition to explore uncharted territory, even as a forbidden love and fierce resistance threaten everything she seeks to protect. As Vivian Jeans observations help Dunham make unprecedented discoveries, she grapples with her second husband’s guilt and accusations. Yet, amidst their private battles, nature presents an even greater challenge . . .

As deadly Hurricane Jrmie bears down on the island, imperiling the womens missionand their livesthey must form a difficult sisterhood. As the storm rages outside the small parish that is their shelter, they will need each other more than anyone or anything theyve ever needed.

AUTHOR BIO:

Denny S. Bryceis the award-winning author of historical fiction novels includingWild Women and the BluesandIn the Face of the Sun. A former professional dancer and public relations professional, she now is an adjunct professor in the MFA program at Drexel University, a book critic for NPR, and a freelance writer whose work has been published inUSA Today,Harper’s Bazaar,andFROLIC Media. She is a member of the Historical Novel Society, Women’s Fiction Writers Association, and Tall Poppy Writers. Originally from Chicago, she now resides in Savannah, Georgia and can be found online at DennySBryce.com.