Book Review: Dead, Dead Girls by Nekesa Afia (2021)

Dead, Dead Girls by Nekesa Afia is a compelling mystery-thriller novel that follows the story of an ambitious, determined, and resilient young woman named Louise Lloyd. The story is set in Harlem in the 1920s, and it centers around a series of murders that have been taking place, with the victims being young Black women. Louise is a journalist who has always been fascinated by … Continue reading Book Review: Dead, Dead Girls by Nekesa Afia (2021)

5 Mysteries with African-American Protagonists to Read During Black History Month

With the majority of works written during the golden age ignoring African-Americans at best or denigrating them at worst- here are five books written to celebrate African-American culture during a turbulent time in American history. Harlem Sunset by Nekesa Afia (A Harlem Renaissance Mystery, 2) It’s 1927, and Louise Llyod has the perfect job as the manager of the Dove nightclub, but when Louise’s girlfriend, … Continue reading 5 Mysteries with African-American Protagonists to Read During Black History Month

Short Story Saturday: John Archer’s Nose by Rudolph Fisher (1935)

“John Archer’s Nose” is a humorous and satirical short story written by Rudolph Fisher. The story is set in the 1920s and revolves around John Archer, a successful black lawyer in Harlem, who is known for his large and prominent nose. Fisher uses satire to comment on the prejudices and biases that existed in society at the time, particularly around physical appearances. He portrays John … Continue reading Short Story Saturday: John Archer’s Nose by Rudolph Fisher (1935)

Book Review: The Conjure-Man Dies by Rudolph Fisher (1932)

The Conjure-Man Dies, written by Rudolph Fisher and first published in 1932, is a classic murder mystery novel set in Harlem during the Harlem Renaissance. The novel features a diverse cast of characters and explores themes of race, class, and identity while keeping readers on the edge of their seats with its intricate plot and surprising twists. The story begins with the murder of a … Continue reading Book Review: The Conjure-Man Dies by Rudolph Fisher (1932)