In a celebration of enduring romance and the transcendent power of Black love, bestselling author Tia Williams unveils her latest literary masterpiece, “A Love Song for Ricki Wilde”. Following the Netflix debut of her 2016 hit “The Perfect Find” and the forthcoming television adaptation of “Seven Days in June”, Williams now transports us to the heart of Harlem with a tale that defies time and tradition.
“A Love Song for Ricki Wilde” is set against the vibrant backdrop of Harlem, where the fates of Ricki, a spirited florist, and Ezra, a mysterious pianist, intertwine in a love story that transcends the boundaries of time. With a nod to the opulence of the Harlem Renaissance, Williams crafts a narrative imbued with mystique, music, and a dash of magic.
The cover, a masterpiece in its own right, was born from the collaborative vision of designer Sarah Congdon and the evocative photography of Adrian McDonald. Striving to encapsulate the novel’s essence, the team discovered McDonald’s stunning portrayal of Black beauty, illuminated under the same luminous glow that jazz vinyl covers from Blue Note Records famously captured. The result is a cover that embodies the dreamlike quality of Williams’ storytelling, portraying a couple enveloped in an ethereal moment of love.
Williams shares her journey of bringing “A Love Song for Ricki Wilde” to life, from its inception during a restless night to choosing Harlem as the setting — a departure from her previous Brooklyn-based narratives. Harlem, with its rich historical tapestry and contemporary allure, provides the perfect canvas for Ricki and Ezra’s love story, infused with elements of the Jazz Age and modern-day enchantment.
The cover’s sensuality captures the novel’s core, reflecting the characters’ deep passion and the story’s winter setting through their radiant, icy-toned skin. Williams’ delight in the cover’s depiction of Ricki and Ezra aligns with her vision, allowing readers to instantly recognize the characters as embodying the essence of the narrative.
With a preference for photography over abstract art due to her magazine background, Williams chose a cover that resonates with the realism of her storytelling while allowing readers the freedom to interpret the characters in their imagination.
“A Love Song for Ricki Wilde” promises a journey filled with romance, artistry, and a hint of the supernatural, as Ricki and Ezra discover their inexplicable connection amidst a cast of intriguing characters, from a glamorous widow to the enigmatic socialites of Harlem.
As Williams prepares to enchant readers once more with her latest offering, she invites us to experience a love story that celebrates the beauty, complexity, and magic of Black love. “A Love Song for Ricki Wilde” is not just a novel but an invitation to dream, to believe in the power of love, and to see ourselves reflected in the timeless dance of romance.