Short Fiction
“Daughter of Orisha” The Aster Review, Vol 4, Spring 2021.
Currently Querying
Just Enough Trouble 100,000 word historical fiction
Tulsa, Oklahoma. 1969.
Chicago-transplant Elaine Russell earns a job as a reporter at a local broadcast news station but, as a closeted lesbian and the station’s second Black employee, she must work twice as hard while being twice as careful. Wendy Webster, the station’s Lifestyle Correspondent, feels unsatisfied in her role and jumps at the opportunity to fill in behind the anchor desk. Both women are tested in their new roles as the consciousness raising movements of the era dominate the broadcast waves. Elaine’s habit of pushing boundaries to get the scoop and her growing connection with the Black Panther Party leads to clashes with station leadership and law enforcement. Meanwhile, Wendy wrestles with the unexpected limitations of the anchor desk, the startling feelings she begins to develop for Elaine, and her personal relationship to the concept of liberation. Despite their differences, Elaine and Wendy find themselves drawn to each other as they work to uncover the truth in their shared city. However, they must decide the personal, professional, and political risks they’re willing to take as they discover new threats both inside and outside their newsroom.
Future Projects
Blood of the Ouachitas, 85,000 word Gothic novel
Bailey Brooks 