Harlem Rhapsody

"Nothing a writer writes is just words. There's an intention behind every line." ~ 72%

Have you ever heard of Jessie Redmon Fauset? No? Then you are in for a Black history lesson when you read the new novel by Victoria Christopher Murray titled Harlem Rhapsody. Let's go back to 1919 when civil and social unrest gripped the nation. But there was a corner of the world where talented Blacks expressed their art, music, theater, fashion and writing. In the center is Jessie Redmon Fauset, literary editor of The Crisis magazine founded by W.E.B. Du Bois.

Harlem Rhapsody follows Jessie's task of discovering new writers and building the legacy of Harlem Renaissance. She had a dream of one day becoming the editor of the Negro magazine while overcoming sexism, racism, an ambitious drive and desire for her very married boss. Is love worth the cost of success?

It was uncomfortable reading Harlem Rhapsody. While I appreciated learning about the woman who'd discovered so many Harlem Renaissance writers, it was awkward reading about her affair with a historical hero, W.E.B. Du Bois. However, the author took great care in preserving their legacy. Murray proved that even our greatest have complicated lives and may fall short but we can still celebrate their contribution to Black culture. Well written!

Happy Pub Day, Victoria Christopher Murray! Harlem Rhapsody is now available.

Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins. ~LiteraryMarie

Title: Harlem Rhapsody
Author: Victoria Christopher Murray
Published: February 2025
Pages: 400
Edition: Galley
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤