To my Auntie Temieka, and my wonderful grandparents, Granny, Papa, and Grandma Sallie, thank you for constantly supporting me, even if my books were a bit much. Y’all still bought them from me and cheered me on every step of the way. (This one is not raunchy, I promise). To my Heavenly grandparents, Mr. Lenwood and Grandma Ann, love and miss you bunches. I hope I’m making you proud. To my aunts, uncles, cousins, I love all one million and seventy-three of y’all.

To my girl, my forever Angel, and sister in Heaven, Paige Christina, as always, everything I do, it’s in your honor, Sis. Remember when you used to tease me about never finishing my novels? Lol. I wish you were here just so I could gloat a li’l bit. I push myself for you, my girl. Always.

To my baby sister River and my brother Malachi, y’all are too young for this but I hope one day you can look back and smile knowing that big sister has written a book or two. To my nephews Gavin and Gabriel, TiTi Bri loves you more than you’ll ever know. God has you. Please remember that. Your mom is watching over you, and so are we. And to my in-laws, thank you for welcoming me into your wonderful family with open arms and hearts. Our like-minded creativity and entrepreneurial spirits brought us together way before Ben knew I belonged with you. Sorry, Ben. They’re my family now.

To the illustrious Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., with special attention to the Henry County Alumnae Chapter and extra, extra special attention to the 56 D.D.C.C. I love you, Sawrahs.

To my super-agent, N’Tyse, we are working, girl! Four years ago, you said we were about to make magic. Now look at us. Thank you for bringing me on and giving me the wings to soar. To my phenomenal Kensington Family, especially my editor, Esi, thank you so much for believing in me and giving me the creative freedom to thrive in my craft. You all continue to amaze me with your publishing efforts to bring my books to life and I am honored to be part of the team. To my publicity team at BookSparks, y’all have shown out with expanding my brand and elevating my readership. I cannot thank you enough!

And of course, to my bomb ass Brigade! All my readers and supporters who have rocked with me in any way over my career. Whether it’s buying a book, sharing my post, or telling someone about me, thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!! I’m passionate about my work because you’re passionate about me. I promise to keep bringing my all with every endeavor. I owe that to you. Let’s ride this thing until the wheels fall off!

“The eye is always caught in the light, but shadows
have more to say.”

—Gregory Maguire

Prologue

Prologue