Erica Kennedy Boeken

In the world of hip-hop Lamont Jackson is a major player. He's CEO of Triple Large Entertainment and he's won his considerable reputation by signing some of the most successful and controversial young rappers in the business. But now he needs to find an R 'n' B crossover artist to prove to himself and his paymasters that he should succeed his mentor, Irv Greene, as head of Augusta Music. He thinks he's found it with half-Haitian, half-Italian Marie-Jean Castiglione. Stunningly beautiful, with a voice to match, Lamont intends to mould his discovery into the perfect ghetto fabulous superstar. Before long Mimi, as she's now to be known, is seduced by the clothes, the fame, the sophisticated lifestyle she could only dream of as a naive young girl growing up in Toledo. But as her career gathers momentum, she finds herself losing control of her life.

Set against the backdrop of a coastal town, the narrative explores the deep connections between family, community, and the ocean. It follows the intertwined lives of several characters as they navigate personal struggles, secrets, and the impact of their choices on one another. Themes of love, loss, and resilience are woven throughout, highlighting how the tides of life can both separate and unite people. With rich imagery and emotional depth, the story captures the essence of human relationships and the power of place in shaping identity.

Sydney Zamora, a self-made celebrity journalist in Manhattan, embodies fierce independence and strong feminist ideals, all while showcasing her unique fashion sense. Despite her success and assertive nature, she struggles with intimacy, having never fully allowed a man into her life. As she approaches her mid-thirties, a longing for connection grows, prompting her to reconsider her approach to relationships and love.