Author Tarris Marie is paying tribute to her grandparents while shining a light on strong Black women. I recently spoke with her about Empress Creed.
Tell me about Empress Creed.
Empress Creed is a love letter to my grandparents who raised me in the Midwest and grew up in the 1930’s depression. Empress reigns as 1930’s Chicago’s cunning Queen Pin, yet sultry Dulce Ella Monroe still longs for freedom from oppression her criminal empire provides. But when rivals threaten all that the influential and glamorous Empress [has] built, her last hope of defense walks through the door in sharp-shooting ex-lover Snipes Creed, now a foe for hire bound to the enemy.
Facing off on opposing sides yet still bound by unbreakable passion, past promises, and present perils, Snipes and the notorious Empress must determine if their romance can rise again or if devastation will strike when luck inevitably runs dry.
Female-driven crime thrillers are gaining more prominence. What inspired you to write this story?
I have been surrounded by flawed, yet strong, black women all of my life. I am passionate about giving a voice to those who may be lost in the dark and are searching for the light. I was inspired to write by God when I was suffering from depression.
Who is your favorite character and why?
Mama Lee, the woman who raised Empress, is my favorite character. Mama Lee represents the backbone of the black community. She took care of others, was a woman of faith who stood up for what was right, and embodied the arts and culture of the time.
When did you fall in love with the written word?
I’ve loved the arts for as long as I can remember. My grandfather bought me a book called Brown Sugar by Donald Bogle, and it changed my life. In that book, I was able to see and read about hundreds of black women who have changed the world through their artistry. I first unlocked my imagination to write stories and movies when I was in the fourth grade, but I didn’t pursue my dream to become a writer until 2020.
What author would you fangirl over?
Octavia E. Butler had versality and an imagination that was out of this world.
What books have you read lately and loved?
The Book of Night Women by Marlon James had me hooked and in awe, and Our Secret Society by Tanisha C. Ford is a gem. I am currently reading and loving Christmas in Spite of You by K.C. Mills.
Your publisher, Black Odyssey Media, is a huge proponent of script-to-screen. How do you envision Empress Creed beyond the book?
I am blessed to be part of the Black Odyssey family, and I see Empress Creed as a drama series on many networks. An idea of Empress Creed gracing the Broadway stage was mentioned to me in another interview, and I would love the opportunity. I believe in the power of our words, so I am manifesting it will all happen.
What do you hope readers gain from your work?
It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, you are a gift from God and worthy to reign anywhere in this world.
What’s next for you?
I would like my first novel, Blaque Pearle, to be brought to life on film this year. Also, I have a third novel, Blaque Juliette, which will be released in Fall/Winter 2026.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Empress Creed.
To learn more about creator Tarris Marie, visit her website or connect with her on social media:
Website: www.tarrismarie.com
All social media platforms: @tarrismarie
For more information on Black Odyssey Media, visit them at WWW.BLACKODYSSEY.NET