Prolific author Vanessa Miller is visiting unchartered territory with her first historical fiction release. I recently spoke with her about The American Queen.
Tell me about your latest book.
The American Queen is simply the best thing I have ever written, and it’s a true story about the only queen to every rule on American soil. Here’s the synopsis…
There is only one known queen who truly ruled a kingdom on American soil.
Transformative and breathtakingly honest, The American Queen is based on actual events that occurred between 1865–1889 and shares the unsung history of a Black woman who built a kingdom as a refuge for the courageous people who dared to dream of a different way of life.
Over the 24 years she was enslaved on the Montgomery Plantation, Louella learned to feel one thing: hate. Hate for the man who sold her mother. Hate for the overseer who left her daddy to hang from a noose. Hate so powerful there’s no room in her heart for love, not even for the honorable Reverend William, whom she likes and respects enough to marry.
But when William finally listens to Louella’s pleas and leads the formerly enslaved people off the plantation, Louella begins to replace her hate with hope. Hope that they will find a place where they can live free from fear. Hope that despite her many unanswered prayers, she can learn to trust for new miracles.
Soon, William and Louella become the appointed king and queen of their self-proclaimed Kingdom of the Happy Land. And though they are still surrounded by opposition, they continue to share a message of joy and goodness—and fight for the freedom and dignity of all.
The American Queen weaves together themes of love, hate, hope, trust, and resilience in the face of great turmoil. With every turn of the page, you will be transported to a pivotal period in American history, where oppressed people become extraordinary heroes.
How long did it take you to write it?
The American Queen took about six months to write and three months to edit and rewrite.
Which character could you relate to the most and why?
I loved, loved, loved Louella Montgomery. Researching her gave me a whole new perspective on the hopes and dreams of formerly enslaved people. She wanted dignity for her people and that resonated with me in a deep and enduring way.
How are you celebrating the book’s release?
I will be doing a book release event at Barnes & Noble at the Pineville Mall on the outskirts of Charlotte, North Carolina. I hope many readers will come out that day and pack the house to celebrate this wonderful true story of Queen Louella.
What is the most valuable piece of writing advice you’ve received?
The most valuable thing I’ve ever been told is too never stop studying my craft and continue to grow as an author. I’ve tried to do that with each book I’ve written, and I hope my readers have seen my growth with each book.
What books have you read lately and loved?
One of my favorite books of 2023 was The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson. I also loved The Thing About Home by Rhonda McKnight.
What books are you excited to read?
I started The Queen of Exiles, but had to put it down to finish my book. So, I will be finishing that one this year. I’m also excited to read Rhonda McKnight’s Bitter & Sweet.
What’s next for you?
The next thing on my plate is a tour for The American Queen. This book is so important to me that I will be on the road for two to three months telling everyone who will listen about the only queen to ever rule on American soil.
I am also working on my next historical based on true historical events about the Tulsa race massacre in 1921. The Filling Station will release in February 2025.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
I just want readers to understand that The American Queen is a true story, and it is really important that I receive support for this book the first week. The American Queen releases on January 30. Please go out to your local bookstore and grab a copy.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of The American Queen.
To learn more about bestselling author Vanessa Miller, visit her website or connect with her on social media:
Website: www.vanessamiller.com
Facebook: Vanessa Miller Pierce
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