The Strivers' Row Spy

Book excerpt: Suspenseful and evocative, Jason Overstreet’s debut novel glitters with the vibrant dreams and dangerous promise of the Harlem Renaissance as one man crosses the lines between the law, loyalty, and deadly lies... For college graduate Sidney Temple, the Roaring Twenties bring opportunities he never imagined. His impulsive marriage to independent artist Loretta is a happiness he never thought he’d find. And when he’s tapped by J. Edgar Hoover to be one of the FBI’s first African-American agents, he sees a once-in-a-lifetime chance to secure real justice. Instead of providing evidence against Marcus Garvey, prominent head of the “dangerously radical” back-to-Africa movement, Sidney uses his unexpected knack for deception and undercover work to thwart the Bureau’s biased investigation. And by giving renowned leader W. E. B. Du Bois insider information, Sidney gambles on change that could mean a fair destiny for all Americans... But the higher Sidney and Loretta climb in Harlem’s most influential and glamorous circles, the more dangerous the stakes. An unexpected friendship and a wrenching personal tragedy threaten to shatter Loretta’s innocent trust in her husband—and turn his double life into a fast-closing trap. For Sidney, caught between the Bureau and one too many ruthless factions, the price of escape could be heartbreak and betrayal no amount of skill can help him survive. Praise for The Strivers’ Row Spy “A colorful, riveting historical spy story.” —Orange Coast Magazine “Overstreet has done a phenomenal job of weaving a story of mystery and intrigue against a Harlem backdrop.” —New York Journal of Books “Superb historical fiction and a great read!” —Historical Novel Society “Overstreet evokes the excitement and jazzy atmosphere of an era.” —Library Journal