The Center for Fiction Presents De'Shawn Charles Winslow on The Fervent Whites with Samantha Hunt

We’re pleased to welcome De’Shawn Charles Winslow, winner of our 2019 First Novel Prize for In West Mills, back to The Center for the launch of his compelling new novel, The Fervent Whites. Winslow will be joined in conversation by Samantha Hunt, award-winning essayist and author of The Seas and Mr. Splitfoot.

A propulsive thriller that examines race, class, gender, and sexuality, The Fervent Whites takes place in a fictional Hudson Valley town called Fervent that has been upended by a shocking murder. When James and Ella White—former members of the community who were convicted of the crime—are later found innocent and released from prison, they decide to return home. Their choice leads to even more turmoil, particularly for Sylvia Upshaw, whose testimony helped to convict the pair, and her best friend, Lafayette “Fate” Jolly, who has held a devastating secret.

Hunt and Winslow will discuss their shared fascination with small towns, family secrets, and the long-simmering tensions that can underlie communities and push inhabitants to the limits of civility. A book signing will follow the event.