In a small town in Eastern Texas the body of white woman and black lawyer from Chicago are found. The presumption is that Michael killed the poor white girl, and hey he must be guilty because he is black and in the same tiny town, hence him also ending up dead.
Darren Matthews, a black Texas Ranger, is asked to take a look into the situation, despite being on suspension, and ends up in a nest full of racists with no regard for his authority. Darren puts his life on the line to discover the truth, in a town living in the past ruled by men with secrets and men who believe being black equates to being sub-human.
Considering the rise of racial tensions in America in the last few years this story is quite poignant. When I say rise I think the correct term would be a resurfacing and less denial of the racial problems in the States. Issues, which have always existed, but the inhabitants and the media like to downplay and minimise. Now black people are standing up and roaring their outrage loud enough for the world to hear.
Reading the reality of the racial tension and segregation suggests that nothing has changed since the days of Jim Crow laws, and how can they when racist institutions like the KKK are accepted under the guise of freedom of speech and democracy. A complete paradox when white supremacists call for discrimination, oppression and lack of freedom for any person who isn't white.
It is hate speech, hate crimes and a perfect example of autocratic rule. Racists do not really understand democracy, you can't advocate for the opposite of that political system, and yet want to profit from the freedoms that come with democracy at the same time.
Locke incorporates important civil rights issues in this well-written story about racism and hatred. She is definitely an author to keep an eye out for.
Buy Bluebird, Bluebird at Amazon Uk or go to Goodreads for any other retailer.
Publisher: Serpent's Tail
Follow @atticalocke @serpentstail
Visit atticalocke.com
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