A Secret Affair with W.E.B. Du Bois Is Explored in Upcoming Historical Novel (Exclusive)

Mar. 15, 2025

Victoria Christopher Murray and the cover of ‘Harlem Rhapsody’.Photo:Jason Frost Photography; Berkley

Jason Frost Photography; Berkley

Berkley

Over the years, Fauset would be the one to discover and publish revolutionary writers of the Harlem Renaissance, including Langston Hughes, Nella Larson, Gwendolyn Brooks and Countee Cullen. But Fauset also had a secret that “threatened her achievement,” according to the novel’s description — she was not only the mentee of Du Bois, but his lover too.

In her new novel, Murray explores Fauset’s relationship with Du Bois, which persisted despite a 14-year age difference and Du Bois’ own marriage.

Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.“Harlem Rhapsodyis my love letter to the extraordinary Jessie Redmon Fauset, the woman who was the heartbeat of the Harlem Renaissance,” Murray tells PEOPLE. “Jessie’s legacy is unparalleled. Not only did she discover literary giants like Langston Hughes, Countee Cullen and Jean Toomer; she had her own stories to tell in the four novels she wrote.”

Victoria Christopher Murray.Jason Frost Photography

Jason Frost Photography

Murray is the co-author of bestselling novelsThe Personal Librarian, which was a NPR Best Book of the Year and a Good Morning America Book Club pick, andThe First Ladieswith Marie Benedict, a Target Book of the Year. She is also a recipient of the NAACP Image Award.

“As a writer who stands on Jessie’s shoulders, I hopeHarlem Rhapsodyserves as a celebration of her indomitable spirit and the lasting impact she left in this world,” Murray says.

The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now!Harlem Rhapsodywill be published on Feb. 4, 2025, and is now available for preorder, wherever books are sold.

source: people.com