This uses the 1930s element in Chicago perfectly to tell the story that it needed to. I was invested in what was going on and thought the characters had that feel that I was looking for. Tarris Marie has a strong writing style and the characters felt like they belonged in this story. It had that time-period perfectly and glad I was able to read this.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher Black Odyssey Media, and the author Tarris Marie for an advance reader’s copy in exchange for a honest review. All opinions are my own.

Tarris Marie is a phenomenal writer. In her latest literary offering, Marie has a well paced novel that gives wisdom and knowledge about life while you read and enjoy Empress’s journey. In all honesty, this is the first book that I have read by the author and I am glad this book found me. Set in Chicago, in the 1930s, we meet Empress and follow her journey as she makes a name for herself as a queen pin and possibly finds love. With vivid details and sharp dialogue, Marie has a great period era novel that reads like a crime drama. You will root for the protagonist while being reminded that you can make your own luck, no matter where you start in life. I sincerely hope that Tarris Marie has a long career as a writer and continues to pen more stories as such. Kudos on a fantastic novel.