Author Trisha R. Thomas is tackling historical fiction in her much-anticipated new release. I recently spoke with her about What Passes as Love.
Tell me about your latest book.
In 1850 on a tobacco plantation in Virginia, Dahlia Holt is the mixed-race daughter of Lewis Holt, a plantation owner. Lewis Holt takes her from the slave quarters to live with he and his family at the behest of the matron of the Vesterville, Miss Rose. Dahlia grows up determined to find her place in the world. In doing so, she puts herself at risk by running off during an outing in the city and changing her name to Lily to pass as a young white woman. There, she meets two English brothers who set their sights on her for their own gain in very different ways. After discovering the brothers’ secrets, Dahlia finds herself on the run in a desperate attempt to save herself and someone she truly loves.
What inspired you to write it?
I was inspired by a photo archived in the Library of Congress. In 1861, three enslaved sisters were emancipated and photographed in their beautiful dresses and hats. I saw a story I wanted to tell. All three of the little girls could easily pass for white. But the youngest girl, Augusta, captured my attention. I imagined what her life would be if she were treated unfairly and took it upon herself to run off and make a new life for herself. A new identity as a young woman who deserved so much more than she was given. I had an Alice in Wonderland moment envisioning the adventures she would experience on her journey to freedom. Who would she meet? How would the people she met along the way change her life? How would passing as white change her life?
When did you fall in love with the written word?
I’ve loved writing as much as reading since I was in second grade. I have always wanted to write.
What’s the best part of being an author?
I get to be creative and tell stories. I’m fascinated with the backstory of people’s lives.
What books have you read lately and loved?
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
What’s next for you?
My next book is Miss DeVore’s School of Charm set in 1950’s Harlem and will be released August 2022.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of What Passes as Love.
To learn more about Trisha R. Thomas, visit her website.