Acclaimed author Tananarive Due is set to release her latest literary thriller, titled *Mazywood,* this autumn, exploring the intricate themes of fame and family legacy through the eyes of a young Black actress. The novel promises to shine a light on the hidden history of Hollywood and the personal costs associated with the pursuit of stardom.
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The much-anticipated book will be published by Saga Press, a respected imprint of Simon & Schuster, and its cover art has been exclusively revealed by *PEOPLE.* The narrative centres on Mazelle Washington, a prominent actress who rose to fame in Hollywood during the 1920s to the 1940s, a time when the film industry was dominated by a select group of elite performers. Despite her success, Mazelle harboured a dark secret that would ultimately follow her family through generations.
Due’s fascination with the darker side of fame and the untold stories of Hollywood has shaped the inspiration for *Mazywood.* In a recent statement, she remarked on her interest in the toll that the pursuit of fame can have, quoting James Baldwin’s assertion about the knowledge of one’s profession’s grim realities. This thematic concern has been a recurring motif in her literary career.
The story unfolds fifty years after Mazelle’s death, following her grandson Johnny, who is on his own path as a filmmaker. Upon visiting his grandmother’s mountain cabin in California, he is confronted with the legacy of Mazelle’s unresolved issues and the “rage” she left behind. This confrontation not only involves grappling with familial turmoil but also encountering a literal and metaphorical monster that resides beyond the boundaries of their ancestral home.
*Due has an established reputation as a storyteller,* having won multiple awards, including the NAACP Image Award and the American Book Award, for her contributions across various genres. Her previous work, *The Reformatory,* garnered critical acclaim in 2024, signalling her ability to weave compelling narratives that blend history with socio-political commentary.
In *Mazywood,* she aims to peel back the layers of Mazelle’s journey and the inherent struggles that come with seeking recognition in a biased entertainment industry. The novel is set against the dramatic backdrop of both the picturesque snowy landscapes and the glamour of Old Hollywood, effectively illustrating how trauma can impact family dynamics over time. Due elaborates, “This story reveals how trauma has teeth that can maul families for generations.”
The author, who is also a professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, teaches courses on Afrofuturism and Black Horror, further demonstrating her commitment to exploring complex narratives that stem from the African American experience.
*Mazywood* is not just a thriller but a profound exploration of ambition and its consequences. Due’s ability to merge elements of suspense with deep emotional truths ensures that the novel will resonate with readers on multiple levels. Scheduled for release on September 22, it is available for preorder at various retailers, promising to be a significant addition to Due’s impressive body of work.
As anticipation builds ahead of the book’s launch, readers are invited to reflect on the motivations behind their own aspirations and the hidden costs that can sometimes accompany the chase for success. Through the lens of Mazelle’s harrowing journey, *Mazywood* invites a broader conversation on the nature of fame, identity, and the enduring bonds of family.