LITERARY LOCAL | Introducing Tarris Marie

MIDWEST–Author Tarris Marie is known for crafting gritty, full-throttle narratives with powerful anti-heroines, and her new book, Empress Creed, is no exception. Tarris Marie masterfully transports readers to 1930s Chicago, beautifully weaving the history of the era with the life of a young woman born into the South Side’s seedy underworld who believes she is destined for more.

Set against the contrasting landscapes of 1930s America—Chicago’s gritty South Side and New York's glamorous Cotton Club—Empress Creed by Tarris Marie dives into a world of love, crime, and resilience during the Great Depression. Though the nation struggled, African American artistry thrived, and in this duality lies the story’s complex anti-heroine.

Dulce Ella Monroe, raised by a blues singer, a prostitute, and a pimp, grew up believing she was destined for more. Her desires for freedom clashed with her rise as “the Queen Pin of

Chicago,” ruling a criminal empire with cunning elegance. Yet, beneath the powerful facade of the woman now known as Empress Creed, Dulce still chases a sovereignty free from oppression. Her rule is threatened when rivals emerge, forcing her to turn to Perry “Snipes” Creed—her sharp-shooting ex-lover now working for her enemies.

Years ago, Perry, a war-scarred veteran, claimed Dulce’s heart but lost their chance at love. The reunited pair now battles old passions and ongoing dangers, standing on opposite sides of a treacherous game. With their legacies and love at stake, they must decide whether to reignite their bond or destroy each other. The question remains—will love conquer all, or will Chicago consume them both?

Published by Black Odyssey Media. Available at Amazon

www.blackodyssey.net/tarrismarie