Embark on an exhilarating journey into the heart of suspense and mystery with an eclectic selection of gripping novels penned by talented Black authors. From chilling thrillers to gripping whodunits, each page is infused with pulse-pounding action, unexpected twists, and unforgettable characters that will keep you hooked from beginning to end.
Enter the shadowy world of “Bad Men and Wicked Women” by the late Eric Jerome Dickey, where blackmail, lust, and family ties collide in a suspenseful tale of impossible decisions. Follow protagonist Ken Swift as he navigates a dangerous game orchestrated by shady bosses, where every choice could have deadly consequences.
Brendan Slocumb’s “Symphony of Secrets” takes readers on a thrilling journey into the world of classical music, where scholar Bern Hendricks uncovers a shocking revelation about the work of a famous composer. As Bern delves deeper into the mystery, he must confront powerful forces determined to keep the truth hidden at any cost.
Colson Whitehead’s “Harlem Shuffle” transports readers to the vibrant streets of 1960s Harlem, where family man Ray Carney finds himself entangled in a web of crime and deceit. As Ray navigates the dangerous world of his forebears, he must confront the dark secrets of his past while balancing on a knife edge between financial ruin and reputation.
In “The Other Black Girl” by Zakiya Dalila Harris, editorial assistant Nella Rogers is thrust into a sinister game of cat and mouse when threatening notes begin appearing on her desk at Wagner Books. As Nella navigates the treacherous world of corporate publishing, she must uncover the truth before it’s too late.
Attica Locke’s “Bluebird, Bluebird” follows Texas Ranger Darren Wilson as he investigates a series of murders in a small East Texas town, where racial tensions and political intrigue threaten to ignite a powder keg of violence.
Rachel Howzell Hall’s “And Now She’s Gone” offers a fresh take on the classic missing persons story, as PI Grayson Sykes embarks on a dangerous investigation that leads her into a web of lies and deception.
Nekesa Afia’s “Dead Dead Girls” introduces readers to amateur sleuth Louise Lloyd, who must confront her past trauma while investigating a series of murders in 1920s Harlem.
Walter Mosley’s “Fearless Jones” series follows Paris Minton and Fearless Jones as they navigate the dangerous streets of 1950s Los Angeles, unraveling mysteries and confronting adversaries at every turn.
Wanda M. Morris’s “All Her Little Secrets” delves into the dark underbelly of Atlanta’s legal world, as rising star Ellice Littlejohn is drawn into a web of murder and deception.
Alyssa Cole’s “When No One Is Watching” offers a chilling exploration of gentrification and urban displacement, as Sydney Green uncovers dark secrets lurking beneath the surface of her Brooklyn neighborhood.
S.A. Cosby’s “Blacktop Wasteland” delivers high-octane action and suspense as Bug Montage is drawn back into a life of crime, navigating domestic tensions and financial struggles while planning a daring heist.
Megan Giddings’s “Lakewood” explores themes of power and control in a chilling tale of violence and bodily autonomy, as protagonist Lena Johnson grapples with the consequences of a mysterious research project in the town of Lakewood.
With each gripping novel offering a fresh perspective and immersive storytelling, these page-turning thrillers and mysteries by Black authors promise to keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.
